Description
If you’re looking for a cake that embodies the brightness of summer and the tang of citrus, then this Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for you.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ⅓ cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh key lime juice (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take your three prepared cake pans and grease them thoroughly with butter and a light dusting of flour.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to combine the dry ingredients. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the fresh key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly add your sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter among the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, then mix in the lime juice, zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- To assemble the cake, place one layer on a plate, spread frosting, add the second layer, repeat, and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
Notes
For the most fresh flavor, use freshly squeezed key lime juice. Leftover cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Protein: 4 g