Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. This cake is ideal for various occasions, from birthday celebrations to summer barbecues. Its moist texture and zesty cream cheese frosting make it truly stand out, ensuring that each bite is refreshing and memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of key lime juice and zest creates a vibrant taste that brightens any occasion.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress their guests with this delicious cake.
• Versatile Decoration: You can customize the presentation with garnishes like lime slices or crushed graham crackers, making it perfect for any celebration.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Two 9-inch round cake pans

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar until fluffy, which is essential for the cake’s texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients, which is crucial for baking success.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (or bottled key lime juice)
• 1 tbsp key lime zest (or regular lime zest)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: a few drops of green food coloring for a lime hue

For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 23 tbsp key lime juice
• 1 tsp key lime zest
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: a drop of green food coloring for tint

How to Make Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine the whole milk, fresh key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract in a measuring cup.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the milk mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
6. If desired, stir in a few drops of green food coloring.

Step 3: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. Beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and fluffy.
2. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar while mixing well.
3. Add key lime juice, zest, and a pinch of salt; beat until fluffy and spreadable. Adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed by adding more juice or sugar.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top before adding the second layer. Frost both the top and sides of the cake as desired. Garnish with additional lime zest, slices of lime, or crushed graham crackers to evoke that classic key lime pie feel!

How to Serve Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this delightful cake.

For a Tropical Twist

• Add Fresh Fruit: Serve slices of the cake with a side of tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for an extra burst of flavor.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: Top each slice with coconut whipped cream for a light and airy finish that complements the lime.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mini Key Lime Tarts: Include mini key lime tarts on the platter for variety and to capture that zesty key lime flavor.
• Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate dipped strawberries pairs well with the tartness of the cake.

For Celebrations

• Decorative Garnishes: Garnish your cake with fresh lime slices or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation at parties.
• Ice Cream Pairing: Offer a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side to balance the tanginess of the frosting.

How to Perfect Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate your baking game. Consider these helpful tips for an exceptional dessert.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh key limes when possible; they provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled juice.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and airy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and sliding of the frosting.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust sugar and lime juice in your frosting according to personal preference—taste testing is key!

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Key Lime Cake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Bold Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa adds sweetness and contrast, making each bite exciting.
2. Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like kiwi, pineapple, and strawberries brightens up the meal.
3. Classic Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw balance well with the creamy cake.
4. Cucumber Mint Salad: This refreshing salad provides a cooling effect alongside the zesty cake.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp skewers bring in a savory element that complements the sweetness of dessert.
6. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled drink like lemonade or iced tea pairs perfectly, enhancing those citrus flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light texture.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An inaccurate temperature can cause uneven baking or a sunken cake.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can affect the batter’s emulsification.
• Skipping the Zest: The zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, use fresh key lime zest for the best taste.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure correct proportions. Too much or too little can alter the final product.

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep the cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each slice for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting?

Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a refreshing dessert that combines zesty key lime flavors in a moist cake topped with creamy frosting.

Can I use bottled key lime juice?

Yes, bottled key lime juice works well if fresh limes aren’t available. Just make sure it’s pure juice without additives.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done baking.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add coconut or graham cracker crumbs for added texture or flavor variations like lemon instead of lime.

How do I store leftovers of Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days, or freeze for longer storage as detailed above.

Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting recipe offers a delightful burst of citrus flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows for customization, so feel free to experiment with flavors or toppings. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing delight of Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting. This luscious dessert perfectly marries the tangy brightness of fresh key limes with a rich, creamy frosting, creating an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. Its moist texture and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while the easy preparation ensures that even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. Customize your presentation with garnishes like lime slices or crushed graham crackers for that classic key lime pie feel.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time.
3. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Combine milk, lime juice, zest, and vanilla.
4. Alternate adding dry and wet mixtures to the butter mixture until just combined.
5. Bake for 28-32 minutes; cool completely.
6. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and lime juice until fluffy.
7. Assemble layers with frosting in between and cover the cake.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 398
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 265mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 81mg