Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that brings the zesty flavor of key limes into a moist, fluffy cake. Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home, this cake stands out with its vibrant color and creamy frosting. The combination of tangy key lime and rich cream cheese creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The fresh key lime juice adds a refreshing twist that brightens any occasion.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this cake accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or as a delightful afternoon snack.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant green hue and garnishes make it visually appealing on any table.
• Creamy Frosting: The key lime cream cheese frosting complements the cake perfectly with its rich and tangy taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pans: Ensures even baking and perfect cake layers for stacking.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
• Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess from steam.

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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
• 1 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
• 2-3 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 to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Add 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 milk, fresh key lime juice, zest, and vanilla in a measuring cup.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the milk mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
6. If desired, stir in a few drops of green food coloring for added visual appeal.

Step 3: Bake

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

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar while mixing well. Then add key lime juice, zest, and salt; beat until fluffy and spreadable. Adjust consistency by adding more juice for tanginess or more sugar for thickness.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top before adding the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake generously. Garnish with additional lime zest, slices of lime, or crushed graham crackers to mimic key lime pie crust for an extra special touch.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting!

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

Serving your Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual get-together, presenting this cake beautifully will delight your guests.

Plate Presentation

• Use a decorative cake stand to enhance the visual appeal.
• Add fresh lime slices around the base for a pop of color and freshness.

Garnish Options

• Sprinkle lime zest on top for an added burst of flavor and texture.
• Crushed graham crackers can mimic key lime pie crust, adding crunch and authenticity.

Beverage Pairings

• Serve with iced tea or lemonade to complement the zesty flavors.
• A refreshing coconut water can provide a tropical touch that pairs perfectly.

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

Creating the perfect Key Lime Cake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for a cake that impresses every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh key lime juice and zest will enhance the flavor significantly compared to bottled alternatives.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature for even cooking.
• Cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting and helps achieve a beautiful finish.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your frosting as you go and adjust sugar levels according to your preference.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Key Lime Cake can create a well-rounded meal or dessert experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful blend of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet side brings tropical flavors that harmonize beautifully with key lime.
3. Avocado Salad: A creamy avocado salad provides a rich contrast that complements the zesty notes of the cake.
4. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp can offer a savory element that pairs well with dessert.
5. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad mixed with veggies can add texture and nutrition alongside your sweet treat.
6. Mango Sorbet: This icy dessert can be served alongside, providing a refreshing palate cleanser after each bite of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To create the perfect Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting, be mindful of these common pitfalls.

• Boldly skip the room temperature: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Boldly overmix the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Combine ingredients just until they’re mixed to keep it light and fluffy.
• Boldly ignore baking times: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking and drying it out.
• Boldly forget the zest: Skipping key lime zest reduces flavor. Make sure to include it for that vibrant key lime taste.
• Boldly skimp on frosting: A thin layer of frosting can make your cake seem dry. Generously frost between layers and on top for a delicious finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake layered with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Freezing Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place slices on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delightful dessert, check out these frequently asked queries.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can substitute regular limes if key limes are unavailable. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese as an alternative for a similar creamy texture in the frosting.

How do I make my cake more tangy?

To enhance the tanginess of your Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting, add extra key lime juice or zest into both the batter and frosting.

Can I add other flavors to this recipe?

Absolutely! Consider adding coconut or mint for a unique twist that complements the key lime.

Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different flavors or garnishes as you like. Whether it’s for a party or just a treat at home, this cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it!