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Delicious Key Lime Cake topped with smooth cream cheese frosting
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Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A delightful dessert bursting with tropical flavors, this Key Lime Cake is moist and fluffy, perfectly paired with creamy frosting.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Bakery
Keyword: Baking, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe, Key Lime Cake, Tropical Flavors
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour provides structure
  • 2.5 tsp baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda for lift
  • 0.5 tsp salt enhances flavor
  • 0.75 cups unsalted butter, softened adds creaminess and moisture
  • 1.75 cups granulated sugar balances tartness with sweetness
  • 4 large eggs provides richness and binding
  • 0.25 cups key lime juice the star ingredient
  • 1 tbsp key lime zest for additional flavor
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract enhances flavor
  • 1 cup buttermilk keeps the cake moist

For the Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened essential for smooth texture
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened for a rich base
  • 4 cups powdered sugar sweetens the frosting
  • 2 tbsp key lime juice flavors the frosting
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract adds depth
  • 1-2 tsp lime zest for garnish

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Follow with the key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract.
  • Alternate adding dry ingredients with buttermilk into the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly between prepared cake pans and bake for about 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Allow cakes to cool in pans before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting

  • Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar until creamy.
  • Mix in key lime juice and vanilla extract for a spreadable consistency.

Assembly

  • Place one layer on a cake stand and spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Repeat with remaining layers.
  • Frost the outside of the cake, smoothing it out or creating decorative swirls if desired. Top with additional lime zest for garnish.

Notes

Ensure butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for best results. Chill frosting if too soft. Use a dab of frosting between layers if they shift.