Introduction

If you’re a fan of citrus desserts that strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet, you’re going to love this Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake is tender, tangy, and topped with a luscious frosting that brings the whole flavor profile together.

With fresh key lime juice and zest in both the cake and the frosting, this dessert is a refreshing standout that looks as stunning as it tastes—perfect for spring, summer, or any time you want to brighten up the dessert table.

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Why I Love This Recipe

This cake is everything a citrus dessert should be: bold, moist, and unforgettable. The cake layers are light and fluffy with just enough key lime zing, and the frosting? Creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor.

I also love that this recipe uses real key limes for an authentic, tropical taste. It’s a great make-ahead cake, and the vibrant green hue (if you choose to use food coloring) makes it a stunning centerpiece for gatherings, holidays, or birthdays.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• ½ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Green food coloring (optional)

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp key lime juice
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Ingredient Notes & Swaps

• Key limes vs regular limes: Key limes are more aromatic and tangier. You can use Persian limes, but adjust the zest and juice to taste.
• Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice.
• Coloring: A few drops of green food coloring give a visual nod to key lime flavor, but the cake is just as delicious without it.
• Zest tip: Zest the limes before juicing—it’s way easier that way!

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Step-by-Step Directions

🔸 Make the Cake:

1️⃣ Prep pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2️⃣ Dry mix: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3️⃣ Cream base: In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well.
4️⃣ Add lime goodness: Stir in the key lime zest, juice, and vanilla.
5️⃣ Alternate additions: Add dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately, beginning and ending with dry. Mix until just combined. Add food coloring if using.
6️⃣ Bake: Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.

🔸 Make the Frosting:

7️⃣ Whip base: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
8️⃣ Flavor: Add key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
9️⃣ Sweeten: Gradually beat in powdered sugar until thick, creamy, and spreadable.

🔸 Assemble the Cake:

🔟 Place one cake layer on a plate or stand. Spread frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides. Garnish with extra zest or lime slices.

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Tips for Success

• Use room temp ingredients for a smoother batter and frosting.
• Don’t overmix once you add the flour—just enough to combine.
• Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner cuts and firmer frosting.
• Zest first! You’ll thank yourself later.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This cake pairs beautifully with:

• A tall glass of iced blueberry lemonade
• A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream
• A festive dessert platter featuring rainbow sprinkle cookies or grasshopper pie

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Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready.
• Frosting: Can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

If you love citrus and color-forward sweets, try:

• Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies – fun, festive, and fast.
• Grasshopper Pie – mint-chocolate no-bake magic.
• Edible Cookie Dough – no oven, all satisfaction.
• The Easter Cookies Everyone Will Be Talking About – whimsical and kid-friendly.

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Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is pure citrus joy in layer cake form. Whether it’s for a birthday, brunch, or just a “you deserve cake” day, the fresh lime flavor and creamy finish make it unforgettable.

Give it a try, share your slice on social, and tag @ChefManiac—we love seeing your creations!