If you’re craving a dessert that delivers big tropical flavor with a refreshing citrus twist, look no further than this Homemade Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s vibrant, moist, and tangy-sweet — everything a citrus lover dreams of. Whether you’re celebrating a summer occasion, hosting a brunch, or just want to impress your family with a gorgeous homemade cake, this recipe is guaranteed to delight.

This cake is inspired by the classic Key lime pie but transforms it into an elegant layered confection. The crumb is tender and buttery with fresh key lime zest and juice infused into every bite. And that frosting? Silky, tangy, and luscious — thanks to cream cheese and a healthy dose of citrus.

Who This Cake is For

This Key Lime Cake is ideal for:

• 🥳 Party planners looking for a show-stopping yet easy-to-make dessert

• 🍋 Citrus lovers who want a new way to enjoy their favorite fruit

• 🍰 Home bakers aiming to expand their layer cake repertoire

• ☀️ Anyone craving a taste of summer, no matter the season

This recipe is beginner-friendly and perfect for anyone comfortable using an electric mixer and baking layer cakes. The bright flavor makes it a standout at birthdays, Easter, bridal showers, or any warm-weather gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tablespoon key lime zest

• ¼ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature

• Optional: 1–2 drops green food coloring for a pastel tint

For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 ½ to 4 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons key lime juice

• 1 teaspoon key lime zest

• Pinch of salt

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this cake seamlessly, gather the following:

• Stand mixer or hand mixer

• Mixing bowls (various sizes)

• Two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans

• Cooling rack

• Whisk and spatula

• Zester or microplane

• Cake leveler (optional but helpful)

• Offset spatula or bench scraper for frosting

• Parchment paper (optional for lining pans)

How to Make Key Lime Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the butter and granulated sugar together for 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy. This step creates the airy structure of your cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the key lime zest, key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Your batter should smell heavenly at this point!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the flour mixture. Stir in a drop or two of green food coloring if desired for a tropical hue.

Tip: Mix just until everything is combined — overmixing can toughen your cake.

Step 6: Bake

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

Cool the cakes in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Making the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

This frosting is a citrus lover’s dream — tangy, creamy, and not too sweet.

Step 1: Beat the Base

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add Flavor

Add the key lime juice, zest, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: Add Sugar

Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until you reach your desired sweetness and consistency. The frosting should be thick, fluffy, and spreadable.

Optional: Chill the frosting for 10–15 minutes if it feels too soft to spread cleanly.

Assemble the Cake

• Place one cake layer on your serving plate.

• Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.

• Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.

• Garnish with extra lime zest, thin lime slices, or even crushed graham crackers for a nod to classic Key lime pie.

Storing Your Cake

Room Temperature:

The frosted cake can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours if your kitchen is cool.

Refrigerator:

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezing:

Unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Flavor Variations & Substitutions

• Lime alternatives: If you can’t find Key limes, regular Persian limes will work — just use slightly less juice as they’re more tart.

• Add coconut: Fold shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkle on top of the frosting.

• Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers between layers for texture.

• Filling twist: Add a layer of lime curd or whipped cream between the cake layers for a decadent surprise.

What to Serve With Key Lime Cake

This cake is fabulous on its own, but here are a few great pairings:

• Fresh berries: Strawberries or raspberries make a beautiful contrast to the tart lime.

• Iced herbal tea: Try hibiscus or mint to complement the citrus notes.

• Champagne or prosecco: Perfect for celebratory occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! Bake the cake layers a day ahead and wrap tightly. Frost before serving for best results.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Absolutely — just make sure it’s Key lime juice for authentic flavor. Nellie & Joe’s is a trusted brand.

Can this cake be made into cupcakes?

Yes! Divide the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes. Frost once cool.

How do I get more lime flavor?

Add an extra tablespoon of zest or brush the cake layers with lime syrup before frosting.

Is food coloring necessary?

Not at all! It’s just for presentation. The natural color will be pale yellow with flecks of zest.

Final Thoughts: A Slice of Sunshine

This Homemade Key Lime Cake is like sunshine on a plate — tangy, sweet, buttery, and irresistible. The cream cheese frosting balances the citrus with silky smoothness, making every bite a dream. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to treat yourself, this cake is the perfect zesty escape.

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