Key Lime Pie Layer Cake Recipe
Picture this: a slice of Key Lime Pie Layer Cake resting on a plate, its vibrant green hue hinting at the tantalizing flavors within. Key Lime Pie Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that combines the refreshing tang of lime with the comforting sweetness of cake. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into this delectable creation, uncovering its origins, guiding you through the baking process, and sharing the versatile applications that make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 cups 240g all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup 113g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups 300g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup 60ml vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup 240ml buttermilk
- Zest of 3 limes
- 1/4 cup 60ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- Green food coloring optional
For the Lime Curd:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup 60ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- Zest of 2 limes
- 1/2 cup 113g unsalted butter, cubed
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup 226g unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups 480g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Zest of 1 lime
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and food coloring (if using).
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely.
- For the lime curd, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, lime juice, and zest in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture thickens. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until smooth. Let it cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, lime juice, and heavy cream or milk, beating until smooth and fluffy. Mix in lime zest.
- Assemble the cake by spreading lime curd between the cake layers. Frost the cake with the lime frosting.
- Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Slice and enjoy!