Key Lime Cake is a sweet, tangy treat that combines the refreshing taste of lime with the cake’s fluffy texture. Perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or just a tasty dessert after dinner, this cake brings a bright burst of flavor to the table. With its creamy frosting and zesty orange undertones, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into making this delightful dessert!
What You’ll Need for Key Lime Cake
To whip up this charming cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package lemon cake mix
- 1.333 cups (approximately 315 ml) vegetable oil
- 0.75 cup (approximately 180 ml) orange juice
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (3 ounce) package lime flavored Jell-O® mix
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 cup (1 stick or approximately 115 grams) butter, softened
- 4 cups (approximately 480 grams) confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Step-by-Step Key Lime Cake Recipe
Follow these simple directions to create your own Key Lime Cake:
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Gather and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
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Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, orange juice, eggs, and lime gelatin mix. Beat until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
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Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 16 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake layer comes out clean. Allow the cake layers to cool completely in the pans.
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Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is cooling, you can make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy.
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Frosting Mix: Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and lime juice to the cream cheese mixture. Continue to mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
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Assemble and Frost the Cake: Once the cake layers have cooled, carefully remove them from the pans. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting on top, and repeat with the second layer. Finish by placing the final layer on top and frosting the top and sides of the cake.
How to Serve Key Lime Cake
When it comes to serving your delightful Key Lime Cake, presentation can make all the difference. Slice the cake into generous pieces and consider garnishing with lime zest or a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar on top for an elegant touch.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the flavors even more. For a refreshing drink, try serving it with iced tea or a crisp lemonade, making it a perfect dessert for a warm day.
Expert Tips for Key Lime Cake
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Let the Cake Cool: Cooling the cake completely is crucial to avoid melting your frosting. Patience is key!
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Flavor Boost: For an extra kick of lime flavor, you can add more lime juice or zest into the frosting.
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Make it Citrus-y: Feel free to mix in some lemon zest into the batter or the frosting for an extra citrusy twist.
Key Lime Cake: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Frost the cake just before serving for the best flavor.
Q: How can I store leftover Key Lime Cake?
A: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will last for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O®?
A: Yes! If you want to experiment, you can use a different flavor of gelatin mix. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor profile of the cake.
This Key Lime Cake is sure to add some zest to your dessert table! With its bright, citrusy flavor and creamy frosting, it’s a treat that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients and get baking—you won’t regret it!