
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
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
- 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
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until well incorporated.
- Stir in the lime juice and zest for a tangy kick.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
- Garnish with lime zest or thin lime slices for a decorative touch.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Limes are Key: Fresh lime juice and zest provide the best flavor—avoid bottled juice for this recipe.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- 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!