Are you looking for a refreshing dessert to brighten up your day? Look no further! Key lime cake recipes are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while transporting yourself to a tropical paradise. With its tangy and zesty flavor, key lime is a unique ingredient that can elevate any dessert from ordinary to extraordinary.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering key lime cake recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From classic pound cakes to creamy cheesecakes, and even cupcakes and icebox cakes, there’s something for everyone in our list of irresistible key lime desserts. So, get ready to whisk away on a culinary adventure and indulge in these zesty treats!
Classic Key Lime Pound Cake
A sweet and tangy classic, this pound cake is infused with the brightness of key lime juice and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 2 3/4 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by key lime zest and juice.
4. Gradually add flour and baking powder, alternating with beating in the butter mixture.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Creamy Key Lime Cheesecake
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your dessert game with this creamy key lime cheesecake! This tangy and sweet treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by key lime juice and vanilla extract.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Key Lime Coconut Layer Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of tangy key lime and creamy coconut, topped with a lightly sweetened whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes. It’s an ideal dessert for springtime gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the whipped cream:
– 8 ounces heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine coconut milk, key lime juice, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before assembling with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Key Lime Bundt Cake with Glaze
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and moist Key Lime Bundt Cake, topped with a tangy glaze that will leave you wanting more. This sweet and citrusy treat is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) bundt pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, Key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. For the glaze, whisk together 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons Key lime juice. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Key Lime Angel Food Cake
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing Key Lime Angel Food Cake. A classic angel food cake recipe gets a burst of citrus flavor from key lime juice and zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated key lime zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour into a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Add cream of tartar and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually pour milk into the egg mixture while whisking.
5. Add key lime juice and zest; whisk until smooth.
6. Pour batter over flour and gently fold until no streaks remain.
7. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until top is golden brown and springs back when touched.
9. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Key Lime Yogurt Cake
This moist and tangy cake is perfect for a sunny afternoon. A combination of key lime zest, juice, and Greek yogurt creates a refreshing flavor profile that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated key lime zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, Greek yogurt, eggs, key lime juice, and grated zest. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Key Lime Poke Cake
Brighten up any occasion with this refreshing Key Lime Poke Cake, featuring a moist and flavorful sponge cake infused with the tangy sweetness of key lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add milk, key lime juice, and confectioners’ sugar to the egg yolk mixture; whisk until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before poking holes all over with a skewer or fork.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Key Lime Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet Key Lime Cupcakes, topped with a rich Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for a brunch or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add key lime juice and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
Key Lime Icebox Cake
This Key Lime Icebox Cake is a light and airy dessert perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up. With only 5 ingredients, this cake is easy to make and requires no baking!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and confectioners’ sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Stir in the key lime juice until well combined.
4. Spread half of the crumb mixture into a 9×13-inch dish. Top with the cream cheese mixture.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining crumbs on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This cake is made in the refrigerator, not the oven.
Key Lime Chiffon Cake
This Key Lime Chiffon Cake is a refreshing twist on the classic chiffon cake, infused with the bright citrus flavor of key lime. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter and egg yolks until smooth. Add key lime juice and zest; whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Key Lime Drizzle Cake
This refreshing Key Lime Drizzle Cake is perfect for spring and summer celebrations. Moist vanilla cake, infused with the brightness of key lime zest and juice, is topped with a tangy and sweet drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated key lime zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with key lime juice and zest, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before drizzling with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Key Lime Mousse Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this light and airy Key Lime Mousse Cake, perfect for warm weather gatherings. This moist cake is infused with the bright citrus flavor of key lime and topped with a creamy mousse.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Add softened butter, key lime zest, and juice; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow cake to cool completely.
6. Whip heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form. Spoon mousse over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Key Lime Ricotta Cake
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and moist Key Lime Ricotta Cake. A delightful combination of citrusy key lime zest, creamy ricotta cheese, and subtle sweetness will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated key lime zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, key lime juice, and zest until smooth.
4. Add the softened butter to the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Key Lime Olive Oil Cake
This Key Lime Olive Oil Cake combines the brightness of key lime juice with the richness of olive oil, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for warm weather. With a subtle hint of citrus and a delicate crumb, this cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs, key lime zest, and juice.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Key Lime Marble Cake
This refreshing dessert combines the brightness of key lime with the richness of a moist marble cake, perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, milk, eggs, key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter in half. Add 1/2 teaspoon yellow food coloring to one half.
6. Pour yellow batter into prepared pans, followed by plain batter.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Key Lime Sponge Cake with Whipped Cream
This light and airy sponge cake is infused with the bright citrus flavor of key lime, perfectly balanced by a dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add key lime juice, baking powder, and salt; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before topping with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Beat until stiff peaks form. Top cooled sponge cake with whipped cream and serve.
Key Lime Upside-Down Cake
A classic dessert with a twist! This moist and flavorful cake features a layer of caramelized key lime zest and juice, topped with a fluffy meringue-like whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 2 tbsp key lime zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, key lime juice, and zest; mix until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until cake is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Key Lime Almond Flour Cake
This refreshing cake is a perfect blend of tangy key lime and sweet almond flour, creating a unique and delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add key lime juice, vanilla extract, and melted butter; whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a citrusy paradise with these 18 zesty key lime cake recipes! From classic pound cakes to creative cheesecakes and layered masterpieces, each dessert showcases the tangy flavor and brightness of key limes. Whether you’re looking for a moist and flavorful bundt or a refreshing icebox treat, this collection has something for everyone. With a range of textures and presentation styles, these key lime cakes are sure to impress friends and family alike. So go ahead, get baking, and let the sweet and sour magic begin!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
