If you’ve been around here for long, then you already know that we are big key lime fans. While the first treat that probably comes to mind is the famous key lime pie, this flavor can shine in so many other recipes. For instance… this incredible Key Lime Butter Cake. This simple cake is packed with zest and topped with a rich cream cheese layer that is sure to make you fall in love with the first bite. Let’s get into how it’s made!
You’ll start out with the base cake layer, a simple, but buttery batter made with kitchen staples and brightened up with lime zest and juice. Next comes the cream layer! Beat the cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, an egg, and another hefty spoonful of lime zest. Pour the cream layer over the batter and bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is just starting to turn golden.
Key Limes might be a seasonal fruit, but with the convenience of bottled key lime juice this treat can be made year round. Give the recipe a try for your next special occasion and we’re sure you’ll love it as much as we do!
Key Lime Butter Cake
Ingredients
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 egg
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
- 2 tablespoon fresh lime zest
- 2 ½ tablespoons key lime juice
- 1 ¼ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cream Layer
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lime zest
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9-inch cake pan or pie dish.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until smooth. Add in the egg, vanilla, lime zest, and key lime juice.
- In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
- Transfer batter to the prepared cake pan and set aside.
- For the cream layer: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add in powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Add eggs and lime zest and mix until smooth.
- Top batter with the cream and spread into an even layer covering the top.
- Bake for 38-40 minutes or until just starting to brown on top.
- Allow cake to fully cool before slicing. Dust top with powdered sugar if desired.
Recipe adapted from 12tomatoes.com