Get ready to brighten your day with a vibrant, tangy-sweet treat that’s destined to steal the spotlight at any table: the Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting. This masterpiece combines the moist, citrus-infused crumb of a classic cake with an irresistible, zesty cream cheese frosting. It’s as if your favorite key lime pie decided to put on a party dress and become a decadent layer cake! Whether you’re planning a summer gathering, a brunch with friends, or simply need a pick-me-up, this cake brings a burst of sunshine to every bite. If you love the flavor of key lime, brace yourself—this dessert delivers it in the most delicious way imaginable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting comes from a handful of simple, essential ingredients that work together to create that signature tang, lush texture, and stunning color. Each one plays a starring role, ensuring the final result is bright, fluffy, and full of fresh citrus flavor.
- White cake mix: The perfect blank canvas for soaking up key lime flavors and keeping the cake exceptionally tender.
- Buttermilk: Adds tang and keeps the crumb ultra-moist—don’t substitute plain milk if you want that signature texture!
- Vegetable oil: Makes the cake light and soft while ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and richness, giving the cake the perfect rise.
- Key lime zest: Packs in vibrant citrus oils for an unforgettable flavor in both the cake and the frosting.
- Key lime juice: Delivers that trademark tartness—freshly squeezed or bottled both work beautifully.
- Green food coloring (optional): Just a few drops create that playful key lime hue that makes each slice pop.
- Cream cheese: The foundation of a luscious, tangy frosting—make sure it’s nice and soft for the smoothest texture.
- Unsalted butter: Pairs with the cream cheese to create a rich, silky base for your frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens up the frosting and helps it whip up light and creamy.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a comforting depth to the frosting and enhances the citrus notes.
- Salt: Even a tiny pinch brings balance, letting the lime flavors sing.
How to Make Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prep Your Cake Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans. This is key for easy release and helps your cakes bake up beautifully golden, so don’t rush this initial step!
Step 2: Make the Key Lime Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, key lime juice, and key lime zest. Beat everything together on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, stopping once or twice to scrape down the sides of the bowl so no deliciousness gets left behind. For that signature colorful flair, mix in a few drops of green food coloring, but this part is totally up to you!
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans and smooth the tops for consistent layers. Slide the pans into your oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Once done, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely—frosting a warm cake is the only shortcut guaranteed to backfire!
Step 4: Make the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until perfectly smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar (start with 3½ cups and add more if needed for your preferred consistency), then mix in the key lime juice, zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If the frosting feels a little too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes—you want it spreadable but thick enough to hold its shape.
Step 5: Assemble and Frost Your Cake
Place the first cake layer onto your serving plate or cake stand, then spread a generous layer of your key lime cream cheese frosting right on top. Carefully add the second cake layer, and continue frosting the top and sides. Don’t worry about perfection—those little swoops and swirls make it look homemade and mouthwateringly inviting!
How to Serve Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting
Garnishes
Decorate your masterpiece with thinly sliced fresh limes fanned out on top, a sprinkle of extra key lime zest, or even curls of zest for a playful touch. For a little pie-inspired flair, scatter some crushed graham crackers along the edges or the base. A few edible flowers in coordinating green and white add a whimsical, summery look that captures the cake’s bright spirit.
Side Dishes
Because the Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting brings a bright, tart flavor, pair it with something lightly sweet or simple. A bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is just right, balancing the citrusy punch without competing. A coconut sorbet can also echo the tropical vibe and make every forkful feel like a mini-vacation.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to go beyond the classic layer cake presentation, try cutting the cake into squares for a snack-sized treat, or assemble it into a trifle with layers of frosting and cake cubes. Mini cupcakes are perfect for parties and offer tiny bites of that big lime flavor. For a playful twist, serve individual cake slices in mason jars with layers of frosting and crumbs—spoon-ready and fun to display!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting (lucky you!), simply cover the cake tightly and refrigerate. The fridge keeps the frosting firm and delicious, and the cake stays moist for up to 4 days. Be sure to let slices sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to revive their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Freezing
This cake freezes surprisingly well, whether you’re prepping in advance or saving extra slices. Wrap individual pieces or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the refrigerator—just as bright and flavorful as the day you baked it!
Reheating
Technically, there’s no need to reheat Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting, as it’s best enjoyed at room temperature or lightly chilled. If you do want to soften it up, let a slice sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it for just a few seconds. Be careful not to overdo it, as you don’t want to melt that beautiful frosting!
FAQs
Can I use regular limes if I don’t have key limes?
Absolutely! While key limes offer a unique, floral tartness, regular Persian limes work beautifully in this recipe. The cake will still pack a lovely citrusy punch, so use whatever you have on hand.
What’s the best way to zest and juice key limes?
Key limes are small, so a microplane works best for zesting. For juicing, roll the limes firmly on your counter first, slice in half, and squeeze or use a citrus reamer. If you’re short on time, bottled key lime juice is a fast and flavorful substitute.
Can I make this Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting gluten free?
Yes! Simply swap in a gluten-free white cake mix and double-check that all your other ingredients are certified gluten free. The cake will still come out moist and delicious, with all the limey appeal.
How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too runny?
Softened (not melted) cream cheese and butter are key, and don’t forget to chill the frosting if it feels too loose. If needed, add extra powdered sugar a little at a time until you reach that perfect, spreadable consistency.
Can I make the cake in advance?
Definitely! You can bake the layers a day ahead, wrap them tightly, and store at room temperature. Frost right before serving for best freshness, or frost and chill overnight if you want to get ahead on party prep.
Final Thoughts
With every forkful bursting with fresh citrus flavor and creamy sweetness, the Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a true crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring the last slice yourself, this cake makes every moment feel like a special occasion. Give it a go—you’ll want to keep this recipe in your sunny-day dessert rotation!