Key Lime Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Key Lime Cake is tangy, refreshing, and irresistibly moist. With the bright flavor of fresh key lime juice and zest, it’s the perfect dessert for spring, summer gatherings, or anytime you want a citrusy treat. Using a boxed cake mix as the base makes it quick and foolproof, while the lime adds a homemade touch that elevates every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
Bright & zesty: Fresh lime juice and zest give a vibrant flavor.
Easy to make: Starts with a simple cake mix.
Moist & tender: Milk and oil keep the texture soft.
Perfect for parties: A crowd‑pleasing dessert with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
1 box white or yellow cake mix
3 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup milk
½ cup key lime juice
1 tbsp key lime zest
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13‑inch pan or two 8‑inch round pans.
Step 2: Mix Batter
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, milk, lime juice, and zest. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan(s). Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool
Allow cake to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Serving Suggestions
Frost with cream cheese or whipped cream frosting for a tangy finish.
Garnish with lime slices or zest curls for a fresh look.
Serve with fresh berries for a colorful presentation.
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a simple touch.
Variations
Key Lime Cupcakes: Divide batter into cupcake liners and bake 18–20 minutes.
Layer Cake: Bake in round pans and stack with lime frosting.
Glazed Version: Drizzle with a lime glaze made from powdered sugar and lime juice.
Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, Persian limes work fine, though flavor is slightly less tart.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—store baked cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, wrap cooled cake in plastic and freeze up to 2 months.
Nutrition (Approx. per slice, 12 servings)
Calories: 220
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Final Thoughts
This Key Lime Cake is a refreshing twist on a classic dessert—easy to make, bursting with citrus flavor, and perfect for celebrations. Whether you frost it, glaze it, or enjoy it plain, it’s a recipe worth keeping close at hand.