Description
A buttery, citrus-packed Easy Key Lime Cake that’s ultra-moist and topped with a bright lime glaze. Made with fresh key lime juice and zest, it’s the perfect dessert for spring, summer, or any time you crave a tangy-sweet treat. It’s quick to make, family-friendly, and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
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2 cups cake flour, sifted
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1 ½ cups granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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3 large eggs, room temperature
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½ cup fresh key lime juice
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2 teaspoons lime zest, finely grated
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
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Optional: extra lime zest for topping
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in lime zest.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with key lime juice, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
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Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to the fridge for 20 minutes.
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Whisk powdered sugar and lime juice until smooth. Drizzle over the chilled cake.
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Optional: Sprinkle with extra zest for garnish. Slice and serve!
Notes
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For best results, use fresh key lime juice rather than bottled.
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Do not overmix the batter after adding flour—this keeps the cake light and tender.
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Refrigerating the cake before glazing helps the icing set perfectly.
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To make dairy-free, use plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt for added moisture.
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You can bake this as cupcakes—just adjust the baking time to 18–20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Easy Key Lime Cake Recipe, citrus cake, lime dessert, summer cake, quick cake, family-friendly dessert, one-bowl baking, key lime dessert, fresh lime cake, zesty cake