Are you craving a burst of sunshine on your plate? Then look no further! This Cake Mix Key Lime Cake is the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dessert. Forget complicated baking techniques; this recipe uses a cake mix as a base, elevating it with the bright, tangy zing of key limes. It's the perfect homemade treat for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dessert or a special celebration. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this surprisingly simple yet sophisticated cake!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) white cake mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (about 4-5 key limes)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest
- 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for extra insurance.
Mixing the Batter:
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In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, sour cream, key lime juice, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the batter is smooth and well combined. Don't overmix; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
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Stir in the key lime zest. This adds a wonderful aromatic layer to the cake and enhances the key lime flavor.
Baking the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Serving:
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Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures even cooling.
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Once completely cool, dust the top with powdered sugar (optional) for a beautiful finishing touch. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or coconut whipped cream for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Key Limes are Best: The flavor of fresh key limes is unparalleled. If you can't find fresh key limes, bottled key lime juice is a good substitute, but the flavor might be slightly less intense.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry cake. Start checking for doneness at the 30-minute mark.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and sour cream helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
Variations:
- Add some Texture: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut or chopped pecans to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with adding a tablespoon or two of other citrus zests, like orange or lemon zest, for a more complex flavor profile.
- Glaze it Up: Instead of powdered sugar, create a simple key lime glaze by whisking together powdered sugar with key lime juice until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This easy cake recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, proving that homemade cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. Enjoy this delightful treat!