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Home » Irresistible Key Lime Poke Cake Recipe – Sweet & Tangy Delight

Irresistible Key Lime Poke Cake Recipe – Sweet & Tangy Delight

July 14, 2025 by HannahCake

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of a freshly baked key lime poke cake wafts through the air, teasing your senses with its tangy sweetness. Picture this: a moist, fluffy cake infused with the vibrant zest of key limes, covered in a creamy, dreamy frosting that makes every bite feel like a warm hug on a sunny beach. lemon cream cheese dump cake This dessert doesn’t just taste good; it dances on your palate like a tropical breeze.

Now, let me take you back to my childhood summers spent at Grandma’s house. Each visit felt like stepping into a paradise of flavors and laughter. Her key lime poke cake was the star of our family gatherings, and every forkful transported me to those sun-soaked days filled with joy and laughter. Perfect for birthdays or casual get-togethers, this cake promises an unforgettable flavor experience. For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The ease of making this key lime poke cake means you’ll be enjoying dessert in no time.
  • Its refreshing flavor profile balances sweet and tart beautifully, making it irresistible.
  • Visually, the bright green and white layers will impress guests and family alike.
  • Versatile enough to serve on any occasion, it’s perfect for summer barbecues or cozy winter nights by the fire.

Ingredients for key lime poke cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Yellow Cake Mix: A simple base that provides moisture and sweetness; choose your favorite for best results.
  • Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal for that zesty punch; bottled juice works in a pinch but may lack depth.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds creaminess and sweetness; don’t skip this it’s essential for the poke magic!
  • Whipped Topping: Lightens up the cake; use store-bought or homemade whipped cream for extra fluffiness.
  • Lime Zest: Fresh zest enhances the cake’s flavor; it adds brightness and aroma that’s simply irresistible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for key lime poke cake

How to Make key lime poke cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks when it’s time to devour.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with water, oil, and eggs as per package instructions. Whisk it until smooth think fluffy clouds on a bright day! Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Bake It Up

Slide that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 4: Make It Poke

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before making holes all over its surface with a fork or skewer. You want to ensure those delightful flavors seep in!

Step 5: Add Key Lime Goodness

In a separate bowl, mix together sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice until well combined. Pour this mixture over the poked cake while it’s still warm so it can soak up all that citrusy goodness.

Step 6: Frosting Time

Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading whipped topping over it. Garnish with lime zest for that pop of color and fresh flavor! Transfer it into the fridge for at least an hour before serving this helps everything set beautifully.

Transfer to plates and watch as everyone dives in for seconds who could resist such a delightful treat? Enjoy every bite of your tropical escape with this fabulous key lime poke cake! tropical coconut lime cupcakes. tropical dump cake recipe.

You Must Know

  • This delightful key lime poke cake is not just a treat; it’s a slice of sunshine on your plate.
  • Its refreshing flavor and moist texture make it perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking the cake according to the box instructions. While it’s cooling, mix the sweetened condensed milk with key lime juice. Poke holes into the cake and pour this zesty mixture over it. Let it soak in while you prepare the whipped topping.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this cake by replacing key lime juice with lemon or other citrus flavors. For an added crunch, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top before serving. Get creative and make it your own! For more inspiration, check out this lemon poppy seed cake recipe recipe.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your key lime poke cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds, just enough to take the chill off without melting the topping.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better incorporation of flavors.
  • Always poke holes evenly to ensure maximum flavor infusion.
  • Don’t skip chilling the cake; it enhances the flavor and texture significantly.

I remember making this key lime poke cake for my best friend’s birthday party. Everyone was raving about how refreshing and delicious it was! It turned out to be a huge hit, and I’ve been making it ever since.

FAQs:

What is a key lime poke cake?

A key lime poke cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of key lime with a moist cake base. After baking, the cake gets poked with holes, allowing a sweet and tangy key lime mixture to seep in. This results in a flavorful treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Topped with whipped cream or frosting, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion where you need a light dessert.

How do I store key lime poke cake?

To store your key lime poke cake, keep it covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out. The cake can last for up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving for optimal taste.

Can I make key lime poke cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily prepare key lime poke cake ahead of time! In fact, making it a day before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once baked and soaked with the key lime mixture, cover the cake well and refrigerate. Just add whipped cream topping right before serving to ensure it stays fresh and fluffy. This makes it a great option for parties or potlucks!

What variations can I try with key lime poke cake?

There are many delicious variations you can explore when making key lime poke cake. Consider adding a layer of crushed graham crackers for added texture, mimicking traditional key lime pie crust. You might also experiment with flavored whipped toppings like coconut or blueberry for an exciting twist. For those who prefer extra zing, try incorporating fresh lime zest into the batter or frosting for enhanced flavor.

Conclusion for key lime poke cake:

In summary, this key lime poke cake is an easy-to-make dessert that offers a delightful combination of sweetness and tanginess. Its moist texture and refreshing flavor make it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just craving something sweet, this recipe will impress your guests. By preparing it ahead of time and exploring various toppings or mix-ins, you can enjoy this delicious treat even more!

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Key Lime Poke Cake

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Indulge in the ultimate summer dessert with our Key Lime Poke Cake! This delightful treat features a moist yellow cake infused with zesty key lime juice, drenched in a sweetened condensed milk mixture, and topped with fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for any occasion, this cake brings a tropical escape to your table. Each bite offers a refreshing balance of sweetness and tartness, making it the ideal dessert for gatherings or cozy nights in.

  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
  • 8 oz whipped topping (store-bought or homemade)
  • Zest of 2 limes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix yellow cake mix, water, oil, and eggs until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  4. Cool for 10 minutes, then poke holes all over the cake using a fork or skewer.
  5. In another bowl, combine key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk; pour over the warm cake.
  6. Allow to cool completely before spreading whipped topping on top; garnish with lime zest.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 365
  • Sugar: 34g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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