This Easy Key Lime Cake is a delightful treat that brings sunshine to your table. I remember making this cake with my daughter, Mia, who insisted on adding extra lime zest because she loves the zesty flavor. This cake is perfect for any occasion and is one of our favorite cake flavors.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a refreshing twist on traditional cake.
- The zesty lime flavor is perfect for warm weather.
- It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Pure Comfort
There’s something about a slice of this cake that feels like a warm hug. The creamy key lime curd and fluffy cake layers come together beautifully, making it a perfect dessert for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
What You Need
- 2 all-purpose flour – cups
- 1.5 granulated sugar – cups
- 1 baking powder – tbsp
- 0.5 salt – tsp
- 0.5 unsalted butter – cup, softened
- 3 eggs – large
- 0.5 key lime juice – cup, freshly squeezed
- 1 key lime zest – tbsp
- 2 powdered sugar – cups
- 1 heavy cream – cup
- 1 vanilla extract – tsp
Time to Cook
Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 50 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together.
- Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- Beat in the eggs, key lime juice, and zest until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
- While the cakes cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, layer them with whipped cream and key lime curd in between.
- Top with more whipped cream and garnish with lime zest.
Make It Perfect
- Use fresh limes for the best flavor.
- You can make the key lime curd a day ahead to save time.
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Mix It Up
- Try adding a layer of cherry limeade cake for a fun twist.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the butter.
- Add coconut flakes for a tropical touch.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a refreshing glass of iced tea.
- Pair with fresh fruit salad for a light dessert.
- Enjoy alongside a scoop of lime sorbet.
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FAQs
Can I use bottled key lime juice?
Yes, but fresh limes give the best flavor.
How should I store the cake?
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month.
Conclusion
This Easy Key Lime Cake is sure to become a family favorite. With its bright flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and enjoy this delightful treat that celebrates the deliciousness of key limes.
Easy Key Lime Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Large bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 large eggs
- 0.5 cup key lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tbsp key lime zest
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together.
- Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- Beat in the eggs, key lime juice, and zest until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
- While the cakes cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, layer them with whipped cream and key lime curd in between.
- Top with more whipped cream and garnish with lime zest.