Key Lime Cake
Indulge in the bright and tangy delight of key lime cake, a dessert that captures the essence of tropical flavors in a moist and fluffy cake. This cake features a luscious key lime frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness, making it an irresistible treat for any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this key lime cake will surely impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the frosting: 1 cup heavy cream, 8 oz cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, lime zest for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for baking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately: 350 calories, 20g fat, 35g carbohydrates, 4g protein, and 18g sugar. This is based on standard ingredients and portion sizes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the key lime juice and lime zest until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by whipping the cream and mixing it with cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. Additionally, for a dairy-free cake, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the frosting.
Serving and Pairings
Key lime cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, such as berries or tropical fruit salad. It also complements a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing the dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover key lime cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Use fresh key limes for the best flavor; bottled juice can be less vibrant.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Don’t skip the lime zest; it adds essential flavor and aroma.
Helpful Tips
- Use a zester for finely grated lime zest.
- For a richer flavor, add a bit of coconut extract to the batter.
- Top the cake with toasted coconut flakes for extra texture.
- Serve with a lime wedge for a decorative touch.
FAQs
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, you can use regular limes, but the flavor will vary. Key limes are smaller and more aromatic, giving a distinct taste to the cake.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake and freeze the cake layers in advance. Just thaw and frost them when ready to serve.
What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute with mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.
How should I decorate my key lime cake?
Decorate with lime slices, mint leaves, or whipped cream for a beautiful presentation that enhances its tropical vibe.
Conclusion
Key lime cake is a delightful and refreshing dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Its zesty flavor, combined with a light and fluffy texture, makes it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or any special occasion. Enjoy every bite of this delicious cake, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
Key Lime Cake
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the key lime juice and lime zest until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by whipping the cream and mixing it with cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.