Introduction
Bright, moist, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor, this Key Lime Sheet Cake is a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Topped with a silky cream cheese glaze and finished with fresh lime zest, every bite is light, tender, and irresistibly tangy.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Key lime desserts originated in the Florida Keys, where the small, aromatic Key lime has long been prized for its distinctive tart flavor. While Key Lime Pie is the most famous creation, this soft sheet cake transforms those same vibrant flavors into a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) fresh key lime juice
- 2 tbsp key lime zest
- A few drops of green food coloring (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp fresh key lime juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
Garnish
- Fresh lime zest
Servings
Makes 12–15 servings.
Optional Additions
Customize your cake with:
- Toasted coconut
- White chocolate chips
- Fresh berries
- Chopped macadamia nuts
- Lime slices for garnish
- Whipped cream
- Shredded coconut
- Mint leaves
Tips for Success
- Use freshly squeezed key lime juice for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing.
- Sift the powdered sugar for a smooth glaze.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes after glazing for cleaner slices.
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2
Beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla, lime zest, and lime juice.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk until just combined.
Fold in food coloring if using.
Step 3
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely.
Step 4
Beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Spread evenly over the cooled cake.
Sprinkle generously with fresh lime zest.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Description
This Key Lime Sheet Cake is incredibly soft and moist with the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. The creamy glaze adds a rich finish while the fresh lime zest provides a vibrant burst of flavor that makes every slice refreshing.
Nutritional Information
Approximate Per Serving
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 40 g
Values are approximate.
Conclusion
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a fresh citrus dessert, this Key Lime Sheet Cake is guaranteed to impress. Its tender crumb and luscious cream cheese glaze make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Recommendation
Serve with:
- Fresh strawberries
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Hot coffee
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Fresh blueberries
- Mint garnish
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for part of the butter, reduce the sugar slightly, and prepare a lighter glaze using reduced-fat cream cheese. You’ll still enjoy the bright, tangy flavor with a lighter finish.