Key Lime Cake Recipe: A Zesty Delight
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of sunshine? This Key Lime Cake recipe is the perfect blend of tart and sweet, leaving you craving more with every bite. Forget those boxed mixes – this homemade version is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to baking this zesty masterpiece!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields a delicious 9-inch Key Lime Cake. Gather these ingredients before you begin:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- Zest of 2 key limes
For the Key Lime Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for thinner consistency)
Baking Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly baked Key Lime Cake:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round baking pan. This ensures your cake will release easily and have a beautiful, even rise.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for even distribution of leavening agents, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, creating a tender crumb. An electric mixer will make this step much easier!
4. Add Eggs:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in Lime Flavor:
Gently stir in the key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract. The zest adds a fragrant boost to the already zesty flavor.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Glaze:
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from sticking and allows it to cool evenly.
9. Make the Glaze:
While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and key lime juice until smooth. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
10. Glaze and Enjoy:
Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.
Tips for Key Lime Cake Success:
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly squeezed key lime juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the cake is fully baked.
- Let it Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
This Key Lime Cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its bright, citrusy flavor and moist texture make it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy!
