Key Lime Pisces Cake

Name: Key Lime Pisces Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup buttermilk; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup fresh key lime juice; Zest of 2 key limes; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 key lime for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making this Key Lime Pisces Cake! The vibrant citrus flavor combined with the light, fluffy texture makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion. I especially enjoy serving it during warm weather when a refreshing treat is most appreciated. The balance of tartness from the key limes and the sweetness from the cake creates a flavor profile that dances on your palate. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for another slice!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:54:28.015Z

When I first experimented with this Key Lime Pisces Cake, I realized how important it is to use fresh key limes. The vibrant flavor truly shines through, elevating the cake to a whole new level. One of my favorite tips is to zest the limes before juicing them; it enhances the fragrance and flavor profile immensely!

What makes this cake so unique is the fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting. I often prefer a whipped cream topping to balance the tartness. Each bite is like a warm hug on a sunny day, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Refreshing citrus flavor that brightens any occasion
Fluffy cake texture that melts in your mouth
Easy to make, yet impressive enough for guests

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh key limes is essential for achieving the vibrant, tangy flavor this cake is known for. The acidity from fresh key limes not only rounds out the sweetness of the cake but also brings a brightness that store-bought lime juice simply can't replicate. When zesting the limes, be sure to avoid the bitter white pith as it can alter the overall taste of your frosting. Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in flavor, elevating this cake to a truly refreshing treat.

Additionally, the quality of your butter and eggs can greatly influence the cake's texture. Softened unsalted butter blends more smoothly with sugar, creating that light, fluffy consistency. Opt for high-quality, farm-fresh eggs for better flavor and richer color. This combination ensures that the cake rises beautifully and has a tender crumb, making each slice a delightful experience.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cakes

To ensure an even bake, it's crucial to properly prepare your cake pans. Greasing them is just the start; consider using parchment paper on the bottom of the pans for easy removal. If you notice your cakes doming too much while baking, try reducing the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and extending the baking time for a more even rise. This will help prevent the tops from being overly golden while the insides remain undercooked.

Another key technique is to avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense cakes by activating the gluten in the flour. Mix until just combined, and you’ll be rewarded with a fluffy, tender cake that perfectly showcases the key lime flavor. If you're unsure, using a rubber spatula for the final mix-in can help maintain that light texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Key Lime Pisces Cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup buttermilk
3 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh key lime juice
Zest of 2 key limes
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 key lime for garnish

Ensure each ingredient is prepped and measured for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Key Lime Pisces Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the buttermilk, fresh key lime juice, and lime zest.

Combine and Bake

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, whip the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Frost the top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the whole cake. Garnish with key lime zest.

Serve chilled and enjoy the zesty goodness!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake batter. This enhances the overall taste and pairs beautifully with the key lime.

Serving Suggestions

This Key Lime Pisces Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. I love pairing it with fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, which not only add a pop of color but also bring additional sweetness and tartness that complements the key lime flavor beautifully. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice, or a dollop of yogurt, can transform it into an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

For a more festive presentation, consider adding a lime syrup glaze on top, made by boiling equal parts of fresh lime juice and sugar until slightly thickened. Drizzle it over the frosted cake before serving for a sweet-tart finish that enhances the flavor with every bite.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make your Key Lime Pisces Cake ahead of time, it stores beautifully. Keep the unfrosted layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for up to a month. Just wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, allow the layers to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

Once frosted, the cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you notice the cake tends to dry out, try covering it with a cake dome or using parchment paper under the cake stand to retain moisture. This way, your delightful cake remains moist and refreshing even a few days after baking!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can substitute regular limes, but the flavor will differ slightly from the unique tartness of key limes.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.

→ Would this work as cupcakes?

Absolutely! Bake the batter in a cupcake tin for about 18-20 minutes. Adjust the frosting accordingly.