How to Make Delicious Key Lime Cake
The smell of a freshly baked key lime cake is like a warm hug from summer. When you taste it, you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise. It’s the perfect treat for any summer event or just when you need a little pick-me-up.
This guide will teach you how to make a cake that will impress everyone. It’s easy to follow and will make your guests love it.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Key Lime Cake
Key lime cake: a tangy, refreshing delight
The key-lime cake is a bright, flavorful dessert with a tangy taste. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional cakes, perfect for summer gatherings—the moist cake and creamy frosting offer a sweet and tart mix that’s sure to please.
It has a 4.35 out of 5 rating from 89 votes, showing its popularity. The recipe uses 14 ingredients and takes 2 hours and 5 minutes to make. This includes 30 minutes of prep and 1 hour and 25 minutes of baking.
The secret to a great key-lime cake is in the ingredients. You’ll need 1 1/2 cups of unsalted butter, six large eggs, and 3 cups plus one tablespoon of sifted cake flour. The cream cheese frosting is also key, with 4 oz of cream cheese, 2 cups of powdered sugar, two tablespoons of milk, and one tablespoon of key lime juice.
“The Feast Restaurant’s Coconut Key Lime Cake offers a unique twist on the traditional Key lime pie, combining the tangy zest of Key limes with the rich, nutty flavor of coconut.”
Key lime cake is perfect for summer barbecues or special occasions. Its bright flavor and creamy texture are a hit on any menu. Try key lime cake and find a new summer favorite!
Ingredients for Key Lime Cake
To make a classic key lime cake, you need some key ingredients. Start with the cake batter. It needs canola or olive oil, large eggs, and whole milk. You’ll also need fresh lime zest and juice, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour.
Don’t forget the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These are crucial for the cake’s texture and taste.
For the frosting, you’ll need softened unsalted butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar. Add more lime juice and zest for that extra zing. Having these ingredients ready will help your cake turn out perfectly.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canola or olive oil | 173 grams (0.75 cup) |
| Large eggs | 6 |
| Whole milk | 250 grams (1 cup) |
| Fresh lime zest | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh lime juice | 63 grams (0.25 cup) + 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | 500 grams (2.5 cups) |
| All-purpose flour | 384 grams (3 cups) |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 0.25 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter (for frosting) | 173 grams (0.75 cup) |
| Cream cheese (for frosting) | 58 grams (0.25 cup) |
| Powdered sugar (for frosting) | 240 grams (2 cups) |
With these ingredients, you’re all set to make a tangy and refreshing key lime cake.
Preparing the Key-Lime Cake Batter
Making the key lime cake batter is key to a tangy and moist cake. Start by mixing oil, eggs, milk, key lime zest, and key lime juice in a big bowl. Cream these wet ingredients for 2-3 minutes until they blend well.
Next, mix the dry ingredients – sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt – in another bowl. Slowly add this dry mix to the wet ingredients. Be gentle to avoid a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 5 large |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 1/3 cups |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 1/2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vegetable Oil | 3/4 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Key Lime Zest | 2 tablespoons |
| Key Lime Juice | 1/2 cup |
| Lime Gelatin | 3 ounces |
After preparing the key lime cake batter, divide it among three 9-inch pans. This will help you achieve a layered cake that’s light and fluffy. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes. The cake is ready when you stick a toothpick in the center, and it comes out clean.
Baking the Key Lime Cake
Making the perfect key lime cake is key to getting the right mix of tangy and sweet. After mixing the batter, it’s time to turn it into delicious cake layers. Here are some tips to bake the key-lime cake just right:
Tips for Perfectly Baked Cake Layers
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (170°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or three 8-inch pans to prevent the cakes from sticking.
- Divide the key-lime cake batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake the cakes for 30-36 minutes (for 9-inch pans) or 20-26 minutes (for 8-inch pans), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Keep a close eye on the cakes towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling the key lime cake.
By following these tips, your key lime cake layers will be perfectly baked. This means they’re ready to be turned into a delicious dessert. Remember, The key to success is in the details. So, don’t skip on watching the cakes closely while they bake.
“The secret to a perfectly baked key lime cake is patience and attention to detail. Take your time and let the cakes bake to a golden perfection.”
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ¾ cup (170 grams) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup (200 grams) |
| Large eggs | 3 (150 grams) |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup (125 grams) |
| Finely ground graham cracker crumbs | ¼ cup (32 grams) |
| Baking powder | ¾ teaspoon (3.75 grams) |
| Kosher salt | ¾ teaspoon (2.25 grams) |
| Whole milk | ½ cup (120 grams) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon (4 grams) |
Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your key-lime cake with a luscious key-lime cream cheese frosting. This tangy, creamy topping is the perfect complement to the sweet and tart flavors of the cake.
To make the frosting, start by creaming together 4 ounces (or 1 stick) of softened salted butter and 8 ounces of cream cheese in a large bowl. Beat the mixture for 4-5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add in 5-6 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh key lime juice, and 1 teaspoon of key lime zest, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
For an extra layer of flavor, you can also incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency of the frosting by adding a bit of milk as needed to achieve your desired spreading or piping consistency.
Chilling the frosting before assembling the cake will help it firm up. This makes it easier to spread and pipe onto the cake layers. The frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, so you can make it in advance and have it ready to go when it’s time to assemble your key lime cake.
With the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, this frosting is sure to be the star of your cake. Enjoy the refreshing flavors of key lime in every bite!
Assembling and Decorating the Key-Lime Cake
Once the key lime cake layers cool, it’s time to put them together. Start by placing one layer on a cake board or plate. Spread the key lime cream cheese frosting over it, making sure it’s even and smooth.
Stack the remaining layers on top, adding frosting between each one. Use an angled spatula to cover the outside of the cake with frosting. This helps keep the cake moist and looks professional.
Layering and Frosting Techniques
Here are some tips for making your key lime cake look great:
- Brush each cake layer with simple syrup for extra moisture and flavor.
- Pipe frosting around the cake’s edges for a clean look.
- Roll leftover key lime filling into balls and coat them in sprinkles or coconut for decorations.
- Top the cake with fresh lime slices or zest for a citrusy touch.
By using these techniques, you’ll make a stunning key lime cake. The moist cake and creamy frosting are a perfect treat for any event.
Key Lime Cake Variations
The classic key lime cake is loved by many. But, you can make it even better by trying new things. Add your own twist to this refreshing dessert with different flavors and techniques.
Adding shredded coconut to the batter or as a topping is a great idea. It adds a tropical taste and a nice texture. For a sweeter cake, mix in some key lime curd between the layers. This makes the cake even more moist and delicious.
Want to try something different? Use lemon or orange instead of key lime. A lemon-key lime or orange-key lime cake is a tasty change from the usual.
The secret to a great cake is finding the right balance. Make sure the key lime’s tartness is matched by enough sweetness. This way, every bite will be refreshing and just right.
| Key Lime Cake Variations | Key Lime Cake Flavors |
|---|---|
|
|
“Trying different key lime cake variations lets you discover new flavors and craft desserts that are uniquely your own.”
What is the flavor key lime
Key limes are smaller, more intense tartness than regular limes. They have a unique, almost floral smell and a bright, tangy taste. This taste makes key lime cake a refreshing summer treat.
The key lime, Citrus aurantiifolia, has a thinner rind and sharper acidity. It has a stronger aroma and a more intense flavor than regular limes. This flavor is key to the zing of key lime cake.
When baked, key lime’s flavor adds a tangy contrast to the cake’s richness. The juice and zest of key limes make the cake refreshing. It’s the perfect dessert for hot weather, with a taste that’s unlike any other citrus cake.
“Key lime cake is a tangy, refreshing delight that captures the essence of summer in every bite.”
In summary, key lime flavor is intense, tart, and floral. It creates a unique taste experience in cake. The tangy taste of key lime makes key lime cake a favorite dessert.
Serving and Storing Key Lime Cake
When serving your key lime cake, keep a few tips in mind. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so refrigerate it until serving time. Slice and plate just before serving for the best look.
For storage, leftover key lime cake can stay in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you need to keep it longer, freeze it for 2-3 months. Simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Key Lime Cake Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve, for best texture and flavor.
- Keep any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze the cake for 2-3 months for longer storage, but note that the texture may change slightly.
- Let the frozen cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
By following these tips, your key lime cake will stay fresh and tasty. Enjoy its tangy, refreshing flavors to the fullest!
Conclusion
Key lime cake is a delightful, tangy-sweet dessert perfect for summer. It’s great for celebrations and gatherings. By following the guide, you’ll make a show-stopping key lime cake that will impress everyone.
The moist cake layers and creamy key lime cream cheese frosting offer a refreshing citrus taste. This recipe is a must-try for a refreshing citrus experience.
Whether you stick to the classic or try fun key lime cake variations, it’s a refreshing choice. It’s perfect for the warm summer months or when you want a zesty flavor.
So, get your ingredients ready and preheat your oven. Create a key lime cake that will wow your guests. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer with this key lime cake recipe.