Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

 

Ingredients

For the Key Lime Cake:

2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 tablespoon key lime zest

¼ cup (60ml) key lime juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened

4 cups (480g) powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons key lime juice

1 teaspoon key lime zest

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Key Lime Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.

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

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, key lime zest, and key lime juice.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.

Divide batter evenly between the cake pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

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

Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until smooth.

Stir in vanilla extract, key lime juice, and key lime zest.

Step 3: Assemble & Decorate

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of cream cheese frosting.

Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.

Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices for a fresh look.

Slice and enjoy this tangy, creamy, and sweet delight!