Key Lime Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

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## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in the key lime zest, juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

### **Step 2: Bake the Cake**
1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for **25–30 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for **10 minutes**, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

### **Step 3: Make the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting**
1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until creamy.
3. Add the key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.

### **Step 4: Assemble the Cake**
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
2. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
3. Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices for a decorative touch.

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## **Tips for the Best Key Lime Cake**
🍋 **Use fresh key limes** – Their unique tartness makes a difference! If unavailable, Persian limes work as a substitute.
🍰 **Don’t overmix the batter** – This keeps the cake light and tender.
❄ **Chill before serving** – Letting the cake rest in the fridge enhances the flavors.

This Key Lime Cake is a citrus lover’s dream—zesty, sweet, and perfectly creamy. Try it for your next celebration, and watch it disappear in no time! 😍🍰

Would you like to add a variation, like coconut or a drizzle topping? 😊