Print

Key Lime Cake Recipe

4.3 from 39 reviews

A refreshing and tangy Key Lime Cake made with fresh lime zest and juice, layered with a smooth lime cream cheese frosting. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a zesty dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup Canola or Olive Oil
  • 3 large Eggs
  • 1 1/3 cups Whole Milk
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Lime Zest
  • 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice
  • 2 cups Sugar
  • 2 cups Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 1 teaspoon Salt

For the Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
  • 4 to 4 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Lime Zest
  • Fresh Limes (sliced for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the cake.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, eggs, whole milk, fresh lime zest, and fresh lime juice. Beat the mixture for 2 minutes until smooth and well blended.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, mix together sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Prepare and Bake Cake Layers: Spray two 9-inch or three 8-inch cake pans with nonstick cooking spray. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven: if using three 8-inch pans, bake for 20-26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean; if using two 9-inch pans, bake for 30-36 minutes. Remove from oven and allow the cakes to cool completely.
  5. Make the Lime Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese for 4-5 minutes until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, fresh lime juice, and lime zest, mixing until smooth and creamy. Chill the frosting until ready to use.
  6. Assemble the Cake: Remove the cooled cakes from their pans. Spread a generous layer of lime cream cheese frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the entire outside of the cake with the remaining frosting.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Decorate the finished cake with fresh lime slices for an attractive presentation. Serve and enjoy this zesty, moist key lime cake.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best authentic flavor.
  • Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth frosting.
  • If you prefer a tangier frosting, add a bit more lime juice to taste.
  • Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • You can substitute canola oil with light olive oil for a different flavor profile.

Keywords: Key Lime Cake, Lime Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Lime Zest, Lime Juice, Moist Cake, Summer Dessert