Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate citrus dessert, this homemade Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting will steal the show!
Moist, tender, and packed with real key lime flavor, this cake is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Whether you’re planning a birthday, bridal shower, summer BBQ, or simply craving a tropical treat, this easy key lime cake recipe guarantees rave reviews.

Unlike store-bought mixes, this cake uses fresh key lime juice and zest for that authentic, bright flavor. Plus, the rich cream cheese frosting adds just the right touch of indulgence. Ready to bake the best key lime dessert from scratch? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Cake Recipe

• Fresh key lime flavor that’s vibrant and refreshing.
• Super moist and fluffy cake texture, thanks to buttermilk.
• Perfect for celebrations, parties, or anytime cravings.
• Easy-to-follow recipe, beginner-friendly, no fancy techniques needed.
• Versatile flavor — pairs well with coconut, berries, and tropical flavors.
• Bakery-style results right at home — save money and impress guests!

Ingredients for the Best Key Lime Cake

For the Cake:

• 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 (or bottled key lime juice if needed)
• 1 tablespoon finely grated key lime zest
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh key lime juice
• 1 teaspoon key lime zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Key Lime Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Line bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light, fluffy, and creamy (about 3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

• Beat in eggs one at a time.
• Stir in key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

• Add the dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately, beginning and ending with the flour.
• Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Divide batter evenly among pans.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

• Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
• Gradually add powdered sugar.
• Stir in key lime juice, zest, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
• Beat until fluffy and spreadable.

Step 8: Assemble and Frost

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
• Spread frosting evenly on top.
• Repeat with remaining layers, then frost the top and sides.
• Garnish with extra lime zest or thin lime slices.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Key Lime Cake

• Use fresh key limes for the most authentic flavor.
• Sift the dry ingredients to prevent clumps and ensure a soft crumb.
• Room temperature ingredients are key for a smooth batter.
• Don’t overmix — overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Brush cake layers with extra lime juice for even more citrus zing.
• Chill before slicing for clean, neat layers.

Best Ways to Serve Key Lime Cake

• Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for tropical flair.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries or raspberries for color and flavor contrast.

Serving Tip:
Chill the cake slightly before serving for the most refreshing flavor experience!

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	470 kcal
Carbohydrates	58g
Protein	5g
Fat	24g
Sugar	41g
Fiber	1g

Nutrition calculated using standard ingredients. Actual values may vary.

Storage and Leftovers

How to Store Key Lime Cake:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Let slices come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Can You Freeze Key Lime Cake?
Yes!

• Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Store up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Best Reheating Tip:
Microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds to restore moisture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Key Lime Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost right before serving.

Can I use bottled key lime juice instead of fresh?
Yes, bottled key lime juice works well if fresh limes aren’t available, but fresh gives better flavor!

Can I turn this recipe into cupcakes?
Definitely! Divide batter into cupcake liners and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes.

What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?
Mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup whole milk to make a quick buttermilk substitute.

What’s the difference between key limes and regular limes?
Key limes are smaller, more aromatic, and offer a sharper, tangier flavor compared to Persian limes.

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Conclusion

Congratulations!
You now have the complete guide to baking the Best Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting — packed with bright flavor, soft texture, and luscious frosting.

Have you tried this cake?
Leave a comment below and rate this recipe! Your feedback helps others and makes my day.

Now you’re ready to wow everyone with your homemade key lime cake masterpiece!

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