Description

This Key Lime Cake with a Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the sweet and tangy flavor of key limes. Perfect for any occasion, this cake combines the vibrant citrus flavor of key limes with the rich creaminess of cream cheese frosting. The light, moist cake and the zesty frosting make this dessert a refreshing and delightful choice for all.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• ½ cup fresh key lime juice
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh key lime juice
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Preparation Method

For the Cake:
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 for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps create a soft and airy cake texture.

Add Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate the eggs evenly into the batter.

Add Lime Flavor: Mix in the key lime zest and fresh key lime juice. The zest will add a fresh, citrusy aroma to the cake.

Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Begin adding the dry flour mixture in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk and vanilla extract. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cake: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:
Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. This will serve as the base for your frosting.

Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is evenly mixed.

Incorporate Lime and Vanilla: Add the key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy, with a slightly tangy and fresh lime flavor.

Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more lime juice or a small amount of milk to thin it out. If it's too runny, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.

Assembling the Cake:
Layer the Cake: Place the first layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of the key lime cream cheese frosting over the top.

Top with Second Layer: Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth the top and sides with a spatula for a neat finish.

Optional Garnish: Garnish with additional key lime zest or even thin lime slices for an extra touch of freshness and beauty.

Tips and Conclusion

Make Ahead: The cake and frosting can be made ahead of time. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: If you need to freeze the cake, you can freeze the unfrosted layers for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil. Frost the cake after it’s thawed.

Lime Variations: For a more intense lime flavor, feel free to use more lime zest in both the cake and frosting. You can also adjust the sugar depending on how sweet or tart you want the final cake.

This Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect dessert for any citrus lover. The light, moist cake combined with the creamy and tangy frosting makes for a refreshing treat that is not too sweet but full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a summer party, or just because, this cake is sure to be a hit. The fresh, zesty key lime flavor makes it an unforgettable dessert, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked!