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–+ servings
Close-up side view of fluffy key lime cake layers with smooth white frosting.

Key Lime Cake

5 from 2 votes
Aliana Recipes
This vibrant Key Lime Cake features fluffy layers infused with fresh lime zest and topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. It balances sweet and tart flavors perfectly, making it a refreshing dessert for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings:12 slices
Course:Dessert
Cuisine:American
Calories:650kcal
Cost:$15
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup canola or olive oil Keeps the cake moist
  • 3 large eggs Room temperature
  • 1 ⅓ cup whole milk Adds richness
  • 2 tablespoon fresh lime zest Essential for aroma
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice For the batter
  • 2 cups sugar Granulated white sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Leavening agent
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda Helps the rise
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness
  • ½ cup butter, softened For the frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened For tangy frosting
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Adjust for consistency
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice For the frosting
  • ½ teaspoon fresh lime zest For the frosting

Equipment

  • 2 9-inch cake pans For baking layers
  • 1 Large mixing bowl For batter
  • 1 Electric mixer For creaming
  • 1 Offset Spatula For frosting
  • 1 Wire rack For cooling

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and spray two 9-inch cake pans with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Beat the oil, eggs, milk, lime zest, and lime juice in a large bowl for 2 minutes.
  3. Stir the sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet mixture gently.
  4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
  5. Bake for 30–36 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cream the softened butter and cream cheese together for 4–5 minutes until fluffy.
  7. Add the powdered sugar, lime juice, and zest, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
  8. Spread frosting between the cooled layers and over the top, garnishing with fresh lime slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 180gCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 85gProtein: 6gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 380mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 65gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest flavor; bottled juice often lacks the necessary zestiness. If the frosting feels too soft, chill it for 15 minutes before spreading to ensure it holds its shape on the cake.