Introduction

This Key Lime Sheet Cake is a bright and zesty dessert perfect for any occasion. It combines a tender, moist cake with a tangy lime frosting for a refreshing treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

Key Lime Sheet Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup salted butter, melted
1/2 cup vegetable oil
Zest of 3 fresh limes
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
3/4 cup boiling water
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons whole milk
1-2 tablespoons lime juice (for icing)
Lime zest (for garnish)
Extra lime slices (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Spray an 11×17-inch rimmed baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Add the melted butter, vegetable oil, lime zest, lime juice, and boiling water to the dry ingredients. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Stir in the beaten eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix just until the batter is smooth and combined.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the top springs back when touched or a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and lime juice. Adjust the lime juice to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Spread the frosting evenly over the warm cake. Garnish with extra lime zest and, if desired, lime slices. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra lime punch, add a teaspoon of lime zest to the frosting.
Use key lime juice if you want an authentic flavor, but regular lime juice works well too.
Make sure not to overbake; the cake should stay moist and tender.
Try adding a handful of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.

Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Leftover cake can be gently reheated in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?

Yes, regular lime juice can be used if fresh limes are not available, but fresh lime juice provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk in this recipe?

Buttermilk adds tenderness and a slight tang to the cake, but you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar if needed.

Key Lime Sheet Cake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 138 reviews

This Key Lime Sheet Cake is a delightful, moist dessert bursting with fresh lime flavor. Made with a combination of melted butter, vegetable oil, and fresh lime zest and juice, this tender cake is baked in a large sheet pan for easy serving. Topped with a tangy lime-infused frosting and garnished with lime zest, it’s a perfect balance of sweet and tart, ideal for summer gatherings or any time you crave a refreshing citrus treat.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup salted butter, melted
1/2 cup vegetable oil
Zest of 3 fresh limes
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 3 limes)
3/4 cup boiling water
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting

1/2 cup salted butter, melted
4 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons lime juice (adjust to taste)
Lime zest (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) and generously spray an 11×17-inch rimmed baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda until evenly combined.
Add wet ingredients and lime: Stir into the dry mixture the melted butter, vegetable oil, lime zest, fresh lime juice, and boiling water. Mix until just combined to maintain moisture and flavor.
Incorporate eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla: Whisk in the beaten eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract gently until the batter is smooth and uniform, being careful not to overmix.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and bake for 11-13 minutes. The cake is done when the top springs back to the touch or a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Make the frosting: While the cake is still warm, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, whole milk, vanilla extract, and lime juice in a medium bowl. Adjust the lime juice to achieve your desired frosting consistency and flavor.
Frost and garnish: Spread the frosting evenly over the warm cake. Garnish with extra lime zest and lime slices for an attractive presentation and an extra burst of lime aroma.

Notes

Ensure the boiling water is added carefully to activate the baking soda and keep the batter smooth.
Do not overbake; the cake should be moist and springy when done.
Adjust the amount of lime juice in the frosting depending on how tangy you want it.
Using fresh lime zest and juice gives the cake the best citrus flavor.
This cake is best served slightly warm or at room temperature.

Keywords: Key lime, sheet cake, lime cake, citrus dessert, easy cake recipe, summer dessert