Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

INGREDIENTS:

For the Cake:

1 box white or yellow cake mix (or your favorite homemade recipe)

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

3 large eggs

1/4 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)

2 tablespoons key lime zest (about 4–5 limes)

For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)

4 cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons key lime juice

1 tablespoon key lime zest

Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish:

Extra lime zest

Thin lime slices

Sprinkles

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, key lime juice, and lime zest.

Beat the mixture on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven 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 them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.

Stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for 1–2 minutes, until the frosting is smooth and creamy …