Zesty Lime Cake with Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting

Zesty Lime Cake with Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting

Bright, tangy, and irresistibly moist, this zesty lime cake is the ultimate dessert for citrus enthusiasts. Topped with a rich and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for celebrations, summer gatherings, or simply indulging your sweet tooth. Follow this simple recipe to create a refreshing dessert that will leave everyone wanting more!


Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons lime zest (from about 3 limes)
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) fresh lime juice
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Green food coloring (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz (230g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest

For Garnish:

  • Lime zest or lime slices


Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Add green food coloring for a vibrant look, if desired.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until well incorporated.
  3. Stir in the lime juice and zest for a tangy kick.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
  2. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
  3. Garnish with lime zest or thin lime slices for a decorative touch.

Tips for Success

  1. Fresh Limes are Key: Fresh lime juice and zest provide the best flavor—avoid bottled juice for this recipe.
  2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  3. Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let the cake layers cool fully to prevent the frosting from melting.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

  • Bright and Tangy: The lime flavor is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the frosting.
  • Moist and Tender: The cake has a soft, fluffy crumb that melts in your mouth.
  • Visually Stunning: The green hue and lime garnish make it a showstopper for any occasion.

Make It Today!

This zesty lime cake with cream cheese frosting is a refreshing twist on traditional desserts. Its vibrant flavor and easy preparation make it the perfect treat for birthdays, picnics, or even just a weekday indulgence. Try it today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy baking!

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