Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting
This Key Lime Cake captures the essence of tropical bliss with its balance of sweet and tart notes, complemented by a rich cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Contributing a tender crumb.
- 1 cup sugar The sweetener that brings balance.
- 0.5 teaspoons baking powder Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- 0.5 teaspoons baking soda A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
- 0.25 teaspoons salt Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Creates a creamy base.
- 2 large eggs Adds richness and moisture.
- 0.5 cups sour cream Gives the cake a tender texture and hint of tang.
- 0.25 cups fresh key lime juice Infuses vibrant zing.
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest Packed with aromatic oils.
- 0.5 teaspoons vanilla extract Imparts a warm, sweet undertone.
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Forms the creamy base.
- 0.25 cups unsalted butter Contributes richness and flavor.
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons key lime juice Brightens frosting with citrusy goodness.
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest Adds delightful zing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and eggs until creamy.
- Add sour cream, key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract to the butter and egg mixture, stirring gently until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
Baking
- Pour the batter evenly into prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool completely in pans before transferring to a wire rack.
Frosting
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar until the mixture is luscious and thick.
- Add key lime juice and zest for additional tang.
Assembly
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Top with the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining frosting.
- Garnish with lime zest or thin lime slices as desired.
Notes
Measure ingredients accurately and ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature. Avoid zesting the pith of the lime. Let cake cool completely before frosting.