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Lime Pie Layer Cake

A spectacular dessert that beautifully combines the refreshing zest of lime with the richness of a classic layer cake, featuring moist layers of cake, creamy lime filling, and fluffy whipped cream frosting.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Light and airy, this forms the base of the cake.
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder Ensures your cake rises to perfection.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
  • 1 3/4 cups sugar Balances the tartness of the lime for a perfectly sweet cake.
  • 4 large eggs Provides structure and stability to the cake layers.
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice The star of the show, providing that bright, zesty kick.
  • 1 tbsp lime zest Intensifies the lime flavor.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Keeps the cake deliciously moist.
For the Filling
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz) Forms the creamy filling base with silky richness.
  • 3 large egg yolks Thicken the filling and lend a rich texture.
For the Frosting
  • 2 cups heavy cream For the luxurious whipped frosting.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting to perfection.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your cake pans to ensure easy release after baking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract, fresh lime juice, and lime zest until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until the batter is smooth and well blended.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly among prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before transferring to a wire rack.
Preparing the Filling
  1. While the cakes cool, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Making the Frosting
  1. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form. This will be the fluffy frosting that tops your cake.
Assembling the Cake
  1. On a serving plate, layer one cake layer down, spread a generous portion of lime pie filling on top, then add the second layer of cake. Repeat with the filling, and top with the final cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the whipped cream. Garnish with additional lime zest for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a bit more lime zest to the frosting for a consistent taste throughout the cake. If you want to enhance the visual appeal, use a microplane to create decorative curls of lime zest to sprinkle on top. Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing for best results. Keep the whipped cream frosting chilled until you're ready to serve for optimal texture. If you find that your cake is domed after baking, use a serrated knife to level the tops for a more professional appearance.