Key Lime Cake

The Key Lime Cake has always held a special place in my heart. I vividly remember my first encounter with this dessert during a family gathering where my aunt served it. The moment I took a bite, I was transported to a sunny beach, the bright tang of lime dancing on my taste buds while the rich creaminess of the frosting enveloped me. This cake isn’t just about flavor; it’s about memories, laughter, and the joy of sharing something delicious with the ones you love.

Shopping List for Key Lime Cake

When it comes to creating a delicious Key Lime Cake, the ingredients are what make it special. The key players, like fresh lime juice and buttermilk, contribute to the cake’s moist texture and vibrant flavor. Each ingredient works together harmoniously, creating a balance that’s both sweet and tangy.

• 2 ¼ Cups Cake Flour – This forms the base of the cake, giving it structure and lightness.
• 1 ½ Cup Granulated Sugar – The sweetness that balances the tart lime, essential for flavor.
• 1 Tablespoon Baking Powder – This is crucial for leavening, ensuring our cake rises perfectly.
• ½ Teaspoon Baking Soda – It enhances the rise and helps with browning.
• ½ Teaspoon Salt – A little salt enhances the overall flavors in the cake.
• 1 Cup Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang, which complements the lime.
• ¼ Cup Fresh Lime Juice – The star ingredient that gives the cake its signature flavor.
• 2 Tablespoons Lime Zest – Adds a punch of lime flavor and aroma.
• 2 Teaspoons Clear Vanilla – Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor.
• ½ Cup Vegetable Oil – Helps keep the cake moist and tender.
• 4 Egg Whites – Contributes to a fluffy texture, making the cake light.
• Lime Wedges for Garnish – A beautiful and fresh garnish to serve with the cake.
• Graham Crackers for Garnish – Adds a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top.
• 8 Ounces Cream Cheese Room Temperature – The base for our creamy frosting.
• ½ Cup Unsalted Butter Room Temperature – Adds richness to the frosting.
• 1 Teaspoon Clear Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness of the frosting.
• 2 Teaspoons Lime Zest – Adds extra flavor to the frosting.
• ½ Teaspoon Salt – Balances the sweetness in the frosting.
• 4 Cups Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens our frosting.

The Method for Key Lime Cake

Making the Key Lime Cake is a simple yet rewarding process. Follow these steps closely for the best results, and soon you’ll have a cake that’s both beautiful and delicious.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray two 8-inch cake pans with nonstick spray. Add a parchment round to the bottom of the pans and spray the parchment with the nonstick spray. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture will be your dry ingredients.
3. Add the buttermilk, lime juice, lime zest, vanilla, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Beat with the paddle attachment of a stand mixer or a hand mixer just until fully combined. The batter should be moist and well-mixed.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they reach medium stiff peaks. You want to see glossy peaks that hold their shape. This step is crucial for a light and fluffy cake.
5. Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the batter just until the streaks are absorbed. Be gentle; you don’t want to deflate the air you just whipped in.
6. Separate the batter evenly into the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center springs back when pressed. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool completely. I find the cake is easiest to frost when it’s chilled, so wrap each cake in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Once chilled, prepare the frosting. In the bowl of a mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Scrape down the bowl to incorporate any stuck bits.
9. Add the vanilla, lime zest, salt, and powdered sugar. Mix on low until combined, then increase the speed to medium-high. Beat until smooth and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
10. Frost the chilled cake with the lime cream cheese frosting. Decorate with fresh lime wedges and crushed graham crackers. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Recipe Variations about Key Lime Cake

There are so many ways to enjoy the Key Lime Cake. Here are some variations and tips to consider:

• Storage: Store leftover cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It’s best enjoyed within a few days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months. Thaw completely before frosting.
• Pairing: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the tart lime.
• Flavor variations: Experiment by adding coconut to the batter or using different citrus fruits for a twist!
• Cutting the cake: Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice the cake to avoid tearing it.

Side Dish Ideas for Key Lime Cake

When serving your Key Lime Cake, think about how to complement its bright flavors.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light salad with berries and tropical fruits enhances the cake’s citrus notes.
• Coconut Cream Pie: For a tropical theme, serve alongside a coconut cream pie that echoes the flavors of the Key Lime Cake.
• Iced Tea: Pair with refreshing iced tea or lemonade, which balances the cake’s sweetness and tang.
• Cheese Platter: Offer a cheese platter with mild cheeses to contrast the cake’s sweetness.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a nice palate cleanser.
• Barbecue Dishes: Perfect for summer gatherings, this cake goes wonderfully after a barbecue meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Key Lime Cake stands out with its vibrant flavor and creamy texture, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this cake and share it with friends and family. The joy of serving a homemade dessert that everyone loves is truly rewarding, and this recipe will not disappoint!

Key Lime Cake

The ultimate comfort food, the Key Lime Cake is a delightful balance of tart and sweet. With its zesty flavor and creamy frosting, it's the perfect dessert for any occasion. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy weeknight treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 2 8-Inch Cakes

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 ¼ Cups Cake Flour
• 1 ½ Cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon Baking Powder
• ½ Teaspoon Baking Soda
• ½ Teaspoon Salt
• 1 Cup Buttermilk
• ¼ Cup Fresh Lime Juice
• 2 Tablespoons Lime Zest
• 2 Teaspoons Clear Vanilla
• ½ Cup Vegetable Oil
• 4 Egg Whites
• Lime Wedges for Garnish
• Graham Crackers for Garnish
• 8 Ounces Cream Cheese Room Temperature
• ½ Cup Unsalted Butter Room Temperature
• 1 Teaspoon Clear Vanilla Extract
• 2 Teaspoons Lime Zest
• ½ Teaspoon Salt
• 4 Cups Powdered Sugar

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray two 8-inch cake pans with nonstick spray. Add a parchment round to the bottom of the pans and spray the parchment with the nonstick spray. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the buttermilk, lime juice, lime zest, vanilla, and oil to the dry ingredients and beat with the paddle attachment of a stand mixer or a hand mixer just until fully combined.
• In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they reach medium stiff peaks. Fold the egg whites carefully into the batter just until the streaks of egg whites have been absorbed.
• Separate the batter evenly into the two cake pans and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center of the cake springs back when pressed on. Let cool completely.
• Wrap each cake in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Once chilled, frost with the lime cream cheese frosting and decorate with fresh lime wedges and crushed graham crackers.
• In the bowl of a mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Scrape down the bowl and beat again for about 10 seconds to make sure it’s well incorporated.
• Add the vanilla, lime zest, salt, and powdered sugar. Mix on low until the powdered sugar is moistened enough for you to increase the speed to medium-high without making a mess. Beat until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• This frosting is best used immediately to frost the cake. If you make it in advance be sure it let it come to room temperature before using it to frost the cake.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the tart lime.
• Flavor variations: Experiment by adding coconut to the batter for a twist!
• Cutting the cake: Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice the cake to avoid tearing it.

Keyword dessert ideas, easy lime cake, Key Lime Cake recipe, tropical cake