Name: Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz); 1 cup buttermilk; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp key lime zest; 1/3 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled); A few drops green food coloring (optional); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, softened); 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp key lime juice; 1 tsp key lime zest; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

why make this recipe

Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of key limes with a moist and fluffy cake. This cake is perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home. Its refreshing taste and beautiful presentation will impress anyone who tries it. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy texture that complements the cake beautifully.

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how to make Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup buttermilk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 tbsp key lime zest
1/3 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
A few drops green food coloring (optional)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, softened)
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp key lime juice
1 tsp key lime zest
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, key lime juice, and key lime zest. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, making sure to scrape the bowl as needed. If you’d like, you can add a few drops of green food coloring.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in the key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is creamy. If the frosting is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
To assemble the cake, place one layer on a plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top, then add the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake. You can garnish it with thin slices of lime, lime zest curls, or crushed graham crackers for a nice touch.
Slice, serve, and enjoy!

how to serve Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Serve the Key Lime Cake chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. This cake can be a standout on a dessert table or a delightful end to a summer barbecue.

how to store Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it for longer, you can freeze individual slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

tips to make Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

Use fresh key limes for the best flavor if available, but bottled key lime juice is a good substitute.
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
If you want a stronger key lime flavor, feel free to add more zest and juice to the frosting.

variation

You can make cupcakes instead of a cake using the same batter. Simply follow the baking time for cupcakes, which will usually be around 18-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Yes, you can use regular lime juice, but the flavor will be different. Key limes have a unique taste that makes this cake special.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just frost it right before serving.

3. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make your own buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Enjoy creating this delicious Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting!