There’s nothing quite like the invigorating scent of key lime wafting through your kitchen, instantly transporting you to sun-soaked beach days. One afternoon, as I sifted through my pantry, I stumbled upon a forgotten bottle of key lime juice and was inspired to whip up a dessert that celebrates its vibrant, citrusy flavor. This Moist Key Lime Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze was born from that moment of serendipity, transforming the classic key lime pie into a delightful cake.

With its tender crumb and refreshing tang, this cake is the perfect companion for spring gatherings or those lazy summer afternoons. The luscious cream cheese glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness, making it an irresistible treat for anyone craving a break from heavy desserts. Trust me, it’s the kind of dessert that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds, and they’ll never guess how easy it is to make! So, let’s dive into this zesty masterpiece that proves homemade desserts don’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary.

Why is this Key Lime Cake irresistible?

Delightfully tangy and refreshing, this cake bursts with flavor that will transport you straight to a summer paradise. Incredibly moist, every bite offers a soft crumb that melts in your mouth, paired perfectly with a rich cream cheese glaze. Effortless to make, anyone can whip it up in no time, making it a great choice for gatherings. Visually stunning, the bright colors and glossy glaze elevate any dessert table. Versatile and fun, try adding your twist with chocolate chips or nuts for added texture! Don’t miss out; this cake is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for your secret!

Key Lime Cake Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to make this moist Key Lime Cake!

For the Cake

Unsalted Butter (1 ½ cups) – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Shortening or Oil (2 tbsp) – Adds moisture to the cake; you can substitute it with extra butter if preferred.
Cream Cheese (8 oz) – Enhances moisture and adds a rich texture to both the cake and glaze; should be at room temperature.
Granulated Sugar (2 ¾ cups) – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its structure.
Large Eggs (6) – Provides structure and moisture; room temperature eggs yield the best results.
Sifted Cake Flour (3 cups plus 1 tbsp) – Creates a tender crumb; all-purpose flour can work as a substitute.
Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Key Lime Zest (4 tsp) – Adds a vibrant citrus flavor; you can substitute with regular lime zest in a pinch.
Key Lime Juice (2 ½ tbsp) – Provides tanginess and moisture; fresh key lime juice is highly recommended.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds depth to the flavor profile.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

Cream Cheese (4 oz) – Forms the base of the creamy glaze.
Powdered Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
Milk (2 tbsp) – Adjusts the glaze consistency, but you can use heavy cream for a richer touch.
Key Lime Juice (1 tbsp) – Infuses the glaze with a tangy lime flavor.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds extra flavor depth to the glaze.

How to Make Key Lime Cake

Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare a 12-cup bundt pan by greasing it with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
Beat together the unsalted butter, shortening (or oil), and cream cheese in a mixer for about 2 minutes until fluffy. You want a light, creamy texture for your cake’s base.
Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing for another 7 minutes until the mixture turns a pale yellow. This step is crucial for incorporating air and achieving that moist texture.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition and scraping down the bowl as needed. Room temperature eggs incorporate better and add richness to the batter.
Mix in the sifted cake flour gradually on low speed, two additions at a time, followed by the salt, key lime zest, and key lime juice. This avoids overmixing and keeps your cake light.
Incorporate the vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix; gently fold it into the batter, then pour the mixture into your prepared bundt pan.
Bake the cake for 1 hour and 15-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye around the 1-hour mark to prevent overbaking.
Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Afterward, gently invert it onto a serving plate to cool for at least an hour before glazing.
Prepare the glaze by whisking together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, key lime juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour it generously over the cooled cake for a delightful finish.

Optional: Garnish with whipped cream and fresh lime slices for a beautiful presentation.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Key Lime Cake Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with a few creative twists that will enhance the delightful tang and flavor!

Regular Lime Juice: Substitute key lime juice with regular lime juice if key limes aren’t available. You’ll still achieve that refreshing citrus taste in every bite.
Fruit-Infused Glaze: Try adding fresh lime or orange zest to the cream cheese glaze for an extra zesty kick. This will elevate the sweetness and make your glaze more vibrant.
Nuts Addition: Toss in ½ cup of chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch. The subtle earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the cake’s tang.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in a cup of white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the tart lime. The creamy texture of the chocolate complements the moist cake perfectly.
Herb Accent: Infuse a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint into the batter for a refreshing herbal note. The combination of mint and lime creates a refreshing summertime treat.
Coconut Flakes: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical feel. The coconut will impart a slightly chewy texture that contrasts with the cake’s fluffiness.
Spicy Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat. The contrast of spicy and sweet will awaken your taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
Vanilla Bean: For a more aromatic glaze, incorporate the seeds from half a vanilla bean into your cream cheese mixture. This adds a rich depth and visual appeal to your glaze.

With these variations, your Key Lime Cake will always have a fresh twist, making each baking experience an exciting adventure!

Storage Tips for Key Lime Cake

Fridge: Store the glazed Key Lime Cake uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness. Cover it gently after a day if needed to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel. Enjoy the delightful tangy flavors of your Key Lime Cake.
Airtight Storage: For unglazed cake leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal texture and taste.

Expert Tips for Key Lime Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all dairy ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, well-blended batter for your Key Lime Cake.
Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which is not what we want for this moist Key Lime Cake.
Watch Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cake at the 60-minute mark. Insert a toothpick to ensure it comes out clean, avoiding the risk of overbaking.
Celebrate the Zest: Don’t skimp on the key lime zest! It adds a vibrant flavor that brightens the cake. If you only have regular limes, that works too—just keep the zesting going!
Glaze Measurement Adjustments: If your cream cheese glaze is too thick, add a splash more milk. The consistency should be pourable but not runny, allowing a beautiful drizzle over your cake.

What to Serve with Key Lime Cake?

The perfect meal is just a slice away, and this delicious dessert pairs beautifully with various complementary sides that enhance its tangy sweetness.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a rich creaminess that balances the tartness of the cake.
Fresh Berries: A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries provides a burst of color and a juicy, sweet contrast to the citrusy cake.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, coconutty treats pair harmoniously, adding a tropical flair that complements the key lime flavor.
Mint Salad: A refreshing salad with mint, cucumber, and a splash of lime vinaigrette offers a zesty flavor that cuts through the cake’s sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience, making every bite of the cake more indulgent.
Tropical Smoothie: Blend pineapple, mango, and coconut milk for a refreshing drink that enhances the tropical vibe of your key lime cake.
Mocha Coffee: The bold, rich flavor of a well-brewed mocha coffee contrasts beautifully, making it a perfect beverage to finish off the meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Key Lime Cakes are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to streamline their dessert prep! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant. The baked cake can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or tightly wrapped and frozen for up to 6 months. To maintain quality, skip glazing until just before serving. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen cake in the fridge overnight, glaze it with the cream cheese mixture, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that tastes just as fabulous as if it were freshly made!

Key Lime Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best key limes for my cake?
Absolutely! Look for key limes that are small, firm, and slightly soft when gently squeezed—this indicates juiciness. Avoid limes with dark spots or blemishes. If you can’t find key limes, regular limes are a great substitute, just adjust to taste for the tangy flavor!

How should I store my Key Lime Cake after baking?
To store your glazed Key Lime Cake, place it uncovered in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain its freshness while the glaze sets. It stays good for up to 5 days. If you have leftovers after a day, gently cover them with plastic wrap to prevent drying out, but ensure there’s airflow to avoid sogginess.

Can I freeze the Key Lime Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely, you can freeze it! Start by allowing the cake to cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, move it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For best results, consume within a month of freezing.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
Very! If your Key Lime Cake turns out dense, this often stems from overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. To prevent this, ensure all dairy items are at room temperature before mixing. When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined—stop as soon as the flour disappears. If your cake has already baked, try slicing it thinly for serving, and pair it with extra glaze or whipped cream to lighten the texture!

Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Certainly! For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute, and use dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze. Make sure to check the labels for any additional ingredients. The cake will still maintain its delicious tangy flavor with these alternatives!

Is this cake safe for pets?
Not at all! This Key Lime Cake contains ingredients like sugar and cream cheese that are not healthy for pets. While the key lime flavor might be appealing, it’s best to keep this treat safely out of their reach to avoid any potential health issues. Always stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!