Key lime cake is a refreshing twist on a classic dessert that brings a burst of citrusy flavor to every bite. Using Duncan Hines cake mix makes this recipe incredibly simple and foolproof, perfect for those times when we want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The tangy key lime juice combined with the moist cake creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist.
We love how this Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake recipe combines convenience with vibrant flavor, making it ideal for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a light and zesty dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake is sure to impress with its bright taste and easy preparation. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
To create our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake, we focus on fresh ingredients that bring out the vibrant citrus flavor while keeping baking simple. Below are the essential components divided into cake, frosting, and garnish for easy reference.
Cake Ingredients
For the tender and tangy cake base, gather these key ingredients:
- 1 box Duncan Hines Classic White Cake Mix
- 1 cup water (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- Zest of 2 key limes (adds refreshing citrus aroma)
Frosting Ingredients
Our frosting complements the cake with creamy sweetness and a hint of lime zest for brightness:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1/4 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)
Garnish Ingredients
- Additional key lime zest (for vibrant color and zing)
- Thin key lime slices (optional for decoration)
- Toasted shredded coconut (adds a tropical crunch)
| Ingredient Type | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Cake Mix | Duncan Hines Classic White Cake Mix |
| Liquids | Water, vegetable oil, key lime juice |
| Eggs & Fruit | Eggs, key lime zest |
| Frosting | Butter, powdered sugar, lime juice, cream |
| Garnish | Lime zest, lime slices, shredded coconut |
Equipment Needed
To create our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake, having the right equipment is essential for smooth preparation and excellent results. Below is a detailed list of tools we will use step-by-step throughout the recipe:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine cake mix ingredients and frosting |
| Electric Mixer or Whisk | Blend batter and whip frosting to smooth texture |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements |
| 9×13 Inch Baking Pan | Bake the cake evenly |
| Zester or Microplane | Extract key lime zest precisely |
| Juicer | Squeeze fresh key lime juice |
| Rubber Spatula | Scrape batter from bowl without waste |
| Cooling Rack | Allow cake to cool thoroughly before frosting |
| Knife | Slice garnishes like key limes |
| Spoon or Offset Spatula | Spread frosting smoothly over the cake |
Why This Equipment Matters
- Using an electric mixer helps us achieve a consistently light and fluffy batter and frosting.
- The zester is crucial for capturing those potent oils and aroma from the key limes to infuse our cake with authentic citrus flavor.
- A 9×13 inch baking pan ensures our Key Lime Cake bakes with an even crumb and moist texture.
- The cooling rack prevents sogginess by letting the cake cool uniformly before applying our creamy, tangy frosting.
With this equipment ready at hand, we ensure our baking process flows efficiently, maintaining the perfect balance of flavor and texture for our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake.
Prep Work
Before we start mixing our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake, it is essential to prepare the workspace and ingredients properly. This ensures a smooth baking experience and excellent results.
Preparing the Cake Pans
To achieve an even bake and easy release of our Key Lime Cake, follow these steps:
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly using butter or non-stick spray.
- Lightly dust the greased pan with flour, tapping out any excess to prevent sticking.
- Alternatively, line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance.
- Set the prepared pan aside on a flat surface near your mixing station.
This careful preparation helps maintain the cake’s moist texture and prevents breakage during removal.
Gathering Ingredients
Having all ingredients pre-measured and ready streamlines the baking process.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Duncan Hines Classic White Cake Mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) | Measured and ready |
| Water | 1 cup | Room temperature |
| Vegetable Oil | 1/3 cup | Measured |
| Large Eggs | 3 | Room temperature |
| Fresh Key Lime Juice | 1/4 cup | Juice from 4-5 key limes |
| Key Lime Zest | Zest of 2 key limes | Finely grated |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (for frosting) | Softened |
| Powdered Sugar | 3 cups (for frosting) | Sifted |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | |
| Heavy Cream | 2-3 tablespoons | For frosting consistency |
| Additional Key Lime Zest | For garnish | |
| Thin Key Lime Slices | For garnish | |
| Toasted Shredded Coconut | For garnish |
We recommend arranging these ingredients on your countertop in the order they are used. This organization helps maintain focus on the baking steps without interruption, ensuring the delicate Key Lime flavor stays vibrant and consistent throughout the cake.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake with a moist texture and vibrant citrus flavor. Each phase ensures we capture the perfect balance between tangy key lime and sweet cake.
Making the Cake Batter
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 box of Duncan Hines Classic White Cake Mix.
Pour in 1 cup water, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs.
Use an electric mixer on medium speed and blend for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
- Add Key Lime Elements
Stir in 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice and the zest of 2 key limes using a rubber spatula.
Folding gently ensures the zest and juice distribute evenly, infusing the batter with bright citrus notes.
- Final Mix
Mix the batter on low speed for an additional 30 seconds to combine, ensuring we do not overmix which can affect the cake’s fluffiness.
Baking the Cake
- Prepare the Pan
Our recommended pan is 9×13 inches. Grease it thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, then dust lightly with flour or line it with parchment paper for effortless removal.
- Pour and Level
Transfer the batter into the prepared pan.
Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the batter evenly to guarantee uniform baking.
- Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the cake on the center rack and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Pan Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bake Cake | 350°F | 30-35 minutes | 9×13 inch pan |
- Check Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked.
Cooling the Cake
- Initial Cooling
Remove the cake from the oven and set the pan on a wire cooling rack.
Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Remove from Pan
Run a thin knife around the edges to loosen the cake. Carefully invert the cake onto the wire rack to remove it from the pan.
- Cool Completely
Allow the cake to cool completely, about 1 hour, before applying the key lime frosting. This prevents melting and ensures the frosting sets properly.
Directions for Frosting
The frosting is crucial in enhancing our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake with creamy, tangy flavor. Let’s create a smooth and zesty key lime frosting that complements the moist cake perfectly.
Preparing the Key Lime Frosting
- Gather Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Room temperature |
| Powdered Sugar | 3 to 4 cups | Sifted |
| Fresh Key Lime Juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure |
| Heavy Cream | 2–3 tablespoons | Adjust for consistency |
- Beat the Butter:
Place the softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy, creating a creamy base.
- Add Powdered Sugar Gradually:
Reduce mixer speed to low. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This prevents powder clouds and ensures an even blend.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
Pour in fresh key lime juice and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until combined. The juice adds vibrant citrus notes that define our key lime frosting.
- Adjust Thickness with Heavy Cream:
Slowly add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time. Beat until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency—smooth and creamy but not runny.
- Taste and Fine Tune:
Sample the frosting. Add a little more key lime juice for extra tang or powdered sugar to thicken if necessary. Our goal is a balanced, zesty sweetness.
Frosting the Cake
- Ensure Cake is Completely Cooled:
Our key lime cake must be fully cooled on a wire rack to prevent frosting melt or sliding.
- Prep the Cake Surface:
If the cake has domed tops, level them with a serrated knife for an even frosting surface.
- Apply a Crumb Coat:
Spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake using an offset spatula. Chill for 20 minutes to set the crumb coat, locking in loose crumbs.
- Add Final Frosting Layer:
Using the spatula, generously apply the remaining frosting. Smooth the top and sides with long, even strokes for a clean finish.
- Garnish (Optional):
Sprinkle additional key lime zest and toasted shredded coconut. Garnish with thin key lime slices for an appealing, fresh look.
Assembling and Garnishing
Once the Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake and luscious frosting are ready, our focus shifts to assembling and garnishing to create a stunning and flavorful presentation. This step ensures every slice delivers the perfect balance of tangy key lime and sweet cream.
Layering the Cake
We begin by carefully Layering the Cake to maintain its moistness and structure:
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled and leveled by trimming any domed tops with a sharp knife.
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.
- Using an offset spatula, spread an even layer of the key lime frosting over the first layer, about ¼ inch thick.
- Gently place the second layer on top, aligning edges to maintain a neat appearance.
- Repeat frosting application on the top and sides of the cake, applying a thin crumb coat first.
- Chill the cake for 10 minutes to set the crumb coat, then apply a final thick and smooth layer of frosting.
- Smooth surfaces with long strokes of the spatula or create subtle texture for a rustic look.
Adding Key Lime Garnish
The garnish enhances both visual appeal and flavor depth. We recommend the following finishing touches:
- Key lime zest: Sprinkled generously across the top for bright citrus aroma.
- Thin key lime slices: Artfully arranged along the edges or center to add freshness.
- Toasted shredded coconut: Scattered lightly on top and sides for texture contrast and a tropical note.
| Garnish Item | Purpose | Application Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Key lime zest | Adds vibrant citrus fragrance | Use a fine microplane for zesting |
| Thin key lime slices | Provide fresh, tangy accents | Slice thinly to prevent overpowering |
| Toasted shredded coconut | Adds texture and visual interest | Toast until golden brown, cool before using |
By thoughtfully assembling and garnishing our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake, we ensure every bite bursts with zesty flavor and irresistible charm.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake, pairing and presentation matter as much as the baking itself. Here are our top serving suggestions to amplify the cake’s fresh citrus notes and create a memorable dessert experience.
Ideal Serving Temperature
Serve the cake chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. A cold cake highlights the tangy lime frosting while room temperature enhances the moist crumb. We recommend refrigerating the cake for about 30 minutes before serving or letting it sit out for 15 minutes if taken from the fridge.
Perfect Portion Size
Cut the cake into modest slices to balance the richness of the frosting with the cake’s delicate crumb.
| Serving Size | Approximate Cake Slice Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Small Slice | 2 x 2 inches |
| Medium Slice | 3 x 3 inches |
Smaller slices work wonderfully for gatherings allowing guests to enjoy the vibrant flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
Complementary Beverages
Pair this Key Lime Cake with refreshing drinks to enhance your dessert course:
- Iced Green Tea: Its mild earthiness complements the lime’s bright acidity.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and palate-cleansing.
- Sweet Moscato or Riesling: For an adult pairing, these wines balance the tartness with fruity sweetness.
Suggested Garnishes for Serving
Add an extra touch of elegance and flavor with these garnish ideas:
- Freshly whipped cream dollops lightly sweetened with powdered sugar
- Additional toasted shredded coconut sprinkled on top for crunch
- Thin lime slices or key lime zest curls placed decoratively on each slice
Plate Presentation Tips
Use a white or pastel-colored plate to contrast against the vibrant green lime zest and creamy frosting. Drizzle a small amount of key lime juice syrup on the plate around the cake slice to intensify the citrus aroma.
“Presentation is key; a beautifully plated slice enhances anticipation and enjoyment of the dessert.”
By following these serving suggestions, our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake becomes more than just a dessert—it becomes a centerpiece at any occasion.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and zesty flavor of our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake. Follow these steps to keep your cake moist and flavorful for days.
Short-Term Storage (Up to 3 Days)
- Cover the Cake: Lightly cover the cake with a clean, breathable cloth or place it in a cake dome to protect it from drying out while allowing some airflow.
- Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature if your kitchen is cool and not humid, ideally between 68°F and 72°F (20°C to 22°C).
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the cake away from direct sunlight or heat sources to preserve the delicate citrus notes in the frosting.
Refrigeration (Up to 1 Week)
- Wrap Securely: Use plastic wrap or an airtight container to cover the cake tightly. This prevents the cake from absorbing other odors and keeps it moist.
- Chilled but Not Frozen: Refrigerate the cake to extend freshness while maintaining its creamy frosting texture.
- Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving: Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This brings out the vibrant key lime flavor and softens the frosting.
Freezing (Up to 3 Months)
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option.
| Freezing Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Wrap Cake | Wrap the cake whole or in individual slices with plastic wrap tightly |
| Additional Protection | Cover wrapped cake with aluminum foil or place in a freezer bag |
| Thawing | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results |
| Serving | Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying |
“Freezing locks in freshness, but allow ample time for thawing to maintain the cake’s moist texture and tangy flavor.”
Important Notes:
- Avoid storing the cake in overly humid areas to prevent frosting degradation.
- When frosting the cake after refrigeration, lightly check for condensation and gently pat dry if necessary before serving.
By following these Storage Tips, we ensure our Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake stays delicious and ready to impress at every slice.
Conclusion
This Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake recipe brings together ease and elegance in every bite. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can create a dessert that’s both refreshing and crowd-pleasing. The bright citrus flavors paired with moist cake and creamy frosting make it a standout treat for any occasion.
By using the right tools and following the preparation tips, we ensure consistent results that impress every time. Whether for a summer gathering or a special celebration, this cake delivers on flavor and presentation without the fuss. Let’s enjoy baking and sharing this zesty delight with friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Duncan Hines Key Lime Cake unique?
The cake combines a classic Duncan Hines white cake mix with fresh key lime juice and zest, creating a moist, tangy, and refreshing flavor perfect for summer or any special occasion.
Can beginners easily bake this Key Lime Cake?
Yes! Using Duncan Hines cake mix simplifies the process, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced bakers with clear, step-by-step instructions provided.
What key ingredients are needed for the cake and frosting?
The cake requires Duncan Hines Classic White Cake Mix, water, oil, eggs, key lime juice, and zest; the frosting uses butter, powdered sugar, key lime juice, vanilla extract, and heavy cream.
What tools are essential for baking this cake?
Key tools include mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring utensils, 9×13 inch pan, zester, juicer, spatula, cooling rack, and offset spatula for frosting.
How do I prepare the cake batter for best results?
Combine dry and wet ingredients as directed, add fresh key lime juice and zest, and mix gently to keep the batter light and fluffy, which ensures a moist texture.
What’s the best way to frost the cake?
Ensure the cake is fully cooled, level the top, use a crumb coat first, then add the final frosting layer smoothly, adjusting consistency with heavy cream as needed for balance.
How should I garnish the Key Lime Cake?
Use additional key lime zest, thin lime slices, and toasted shredded coconut to enhance both the cake’s flavor and appearance.
What’s the ideal way to serve this cake?
Serve chilled or at room temperature in modest slices, paired with refreshing drinks like iced green tea, sparkling water with lime, or Moscato, and optionally add whipped cream or toasted coconut.
How do I store the cake to keep it fresh?
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days covered lightly, refrigerate wrapped securely up to 1 week, or freeze wrapped well for longer storage, thawing before serving and avoiding humidity.
Can the cake be frozen and still taste fresh?
Yes, freeze the cake tightly wrapped to prevent moisture loss and odors; thaw it in the fridge before frosting or serving to maintain texture and flavor.