Key Lime Poke Cake

When it comes to cool and creamy treats, Key Lime Pie is king. And while this poke cake might not have the same cool and silky feel as the original, it does have the same irresistibly refreshing citrus flavor… but in poke cake form! If you’re not yet familiar with poke cake, it’s high time you become acquainted because the poke cake method is a unique one that allows creamy flavored filling to sink down into the crumb of the cake so each and every bite is full of yummy flavor.

Here’s the idea with a poke cake: You literally poke the cake all over with the end of a wooden spoon, almost all the way to the bottom but without poking all the way through. Then, you pour a filling over the top so it seeps down into those holes to flavor the cake.

In this case, that filling is a sweet whipped cream mixture flavored with key lime juice, so while it lends a creamy bite to the cake, it also has that refreshing citrus thing going on.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Key Lime Poke Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that combines the zesty flavor of key lime with the moist texture of a poke cake. It’s easy to make, perfect for summer gatherings, and sure to impress your friends and family with its vibrant taste.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Wooden spoon
• Medium mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Electric mixer

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix, plus ingredients called for on box

For the Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup bottled key lime juice
• Zest from 1 lime

For the Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare and bake the cake according to package instructions in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Let the cake cool for 5 minutes, then poke holes all over the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon, being careful not to poke through to the bottom. Set aside.
3. For the filling, add condensed milk, whipping cream, and lime zest to a medium bowl. Whisk to combine. Add lime juice and whisk again until it starts to thicken quickly. Pour the mixture over the cake, spreading with a spatula to encourage it to fill in the holes. Chill for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
4. While the cake chills, make the topping. In a medium bowl, add whipping cream and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until it starts to thicken, then gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
5. Spread the topping over the cake and garnish with sliced limes and lime zest, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Use freshly squeezed lime juice for an extra burst of flavor if you have it available.
• For a decorative touch, sprinkle additional lime zest on top of the whipped cream before serving.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a more tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut to the whipped cream topping.
• If you prefer a more traditional key lime pie flavor, add a graham cracker crust layer at the bottom of the cake before baking.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake offers a delightful balance of creamy and tangy flavors with a light and airy texture. While exact nutritional values can vary, it provides a refreshing dessert option with a hint of citrus. Please consult packaging for detailed nutritional information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Yes, you can substitute regular lime juice, but the flavor will be slightly different. Key lime juice has a more intense, aromatic flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is actually better after it has chilled for a few hours or overnight, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

Conclusion

Ready for a taste of summer? This Key Lime Poke Cake is a must-try recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With its refreshing citrus flavor and creamy texture, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!