Key Lime Cake

Bright, tangy, and irresistibly moist, Key Lime Cake brings the iconic flavor of key lime pie into a soft, tender cake layered with creamy frosting. With its perfect balance of sweet and citrusy, this cake is refreshing yet indulgent—ideal for spring and summer celebrations, birthdays, or anytime you’re craving a zesty dessert.

Infused with real lime juice and zest, this cake delivers bold citrus flavor without being overpowering. Finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting, every bite is light, creamy, and bursting with sunshine.

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Cake

Fresh, vibrant flavor from real lime juice and zest
Moist and tender crumb that stays soft for days
Perfect balance of sweet and tangy
Crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion
Easy to make with simple ingredients

Ingredients (Serves 10–12)

For the Cake

2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
Zest of 3 key limes (or 2 regular limes)
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3½–4 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp key lime juice
1 tsp lime zest
Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish

Lime slices or twists
Extra lime zest
Crushed graham crackers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This step is key for a tender cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the batter in alternating additions with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

Step 7: Beat the Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by lime juice, zest, and salt. Beat until fluffy and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.

Garnish with lime zest, lime slices, or crushed graham crackers if desired.

Tips for the Best Key Lime Cake

Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor
Room-temperature ingredients ensure smooth batter
Don’t overbake—moisture is key
Chill before slicing for clean, neat cuts
Taste the frosting and adjust lime or sugar as needed

Variations

Key Lime Sheet Cake: Bake in a 9×13-inch pan
Cupcakes: Bake for 18–20 minutes
Extra Tangy: Add lime curd between layers
Coconut Key Lime Cake: Add shredded coconut to the batter
Lighter Frosting: Use whipped cream frosting with lime zest

Serving Suggestions

Serve Key Lime Cake:

Chilled for extra refreshment
With fresh berries
After a seafood or summer meal
With coffee, tea, or iced drinks

Storage

Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
Room temperature: Up to 24 hours if unfrosted
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake layers up to 2 months

Why This Recipe Works

The acidity of key lime juice reacts with buttermilk and baking soda to create a soft, tender crumb, while lime zest provides intense citrus aroma. Cream cheese frosting balances the tang with rich creaminess, making this cake both refreshing and indulgent.

Final Thoughts

Key Lime Cake is a show-stopping dessert that delivers bold citrus flavor in a soft, elegant cake. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a weekend treat, it’s a recipe that feels special yet approachable.

If you love key lime pie, this cake version is guaranteed to become a new favorite.