key lime poke cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
key lime poke cake recipe
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The Best key lime poke cake recipe

I’ve been making key lime poke cake for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family and friends.

The first time I tried it, I was blown away by the combination of tangy key lime juice and the sweetness of the cake.

It’s a match made in heaven, and I love how it’s both refreshing and decadent at the same time.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make this cake – just mix together a few simple ingredients, pour the batter into a pan, and let the magic happen.

Whether we’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a pick-me-up on a Tuesday, key lime poke cake is always a hit.

Key Lime Poke Cake

Key Lime Poke Cake

4.8 from 1220 votes

This key lime poke cake is a delightful dessert with a tangy lime flavor that is sure to impress. It is a moist cake with a sweet lime glaze, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box white cake mix
1 1/2 cups water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

For the Poke Filling

1 can 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
Zest of 2 limes

For the Topping

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon lime zest

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
4Stir until well combined and no lumps remain.
5The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
6Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7Bake the cake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8The top of the cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
9While the cake is baking, prepare the poke filling by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest in a small bowl.
10Set aside until ready to use.
11Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
12Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
13The holes should be deep enough to reach the bottom of the cake.
14Slowly pour the poke filling over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
15Spread the filling evenly across the surface with a spoon.
16Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before adding the topping.
17In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, lime juice, and lime zest.
18Whisk until smooth and no lumps remain.
19The glaze should be thick but pourable.
20If it is too thick, add more lime juice one teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
21Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
22The cake should be fully covered in the glaze, with a slight sheen.
23Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving.
24This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to set.
25The cake should be chilled and firm to the touch when ready to serve.

🔧Equipment

9×13 in. Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Spoon
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 350mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 40g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Tips: For an extra tangy flavor, add more lime zest to the poke filling and topping. You can also garnish the cake with fresh lime slices or mint leaves for added presentation.

I always have this recipe on hand for any occasion – whether we’re celebrating a birthday or just need something special for dinner.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate until serving.

My family loves when I pull out this beautiful dessert from the fridge after dinner – they know they’re in for a real treat.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Key Lime Poke Cake

Q: What is key lime poke cake?

Key lime poke cake is a type of dessert that involves poking holes in a cake with a skewer or fork to create small gaps, then pouring a sweetened condensed milk mixture over the top. This creates a moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for warm weather or any time you want something light and refreshing.

Q: What is the difference between key lime and regular lime?

Key limes are smaller and more acidic than regular limes, which makes them ideal for baking. They have a unique flavor that’s both tart and slightly sweet, which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar in this recipe.

Q: Can I use bottled key lime juice instead of fresh?

While bottled key lime juice can be used as a substitute, I highly recommend using fresh key limes if possible. The flavor just isn’t the same when you use bottled juice – it’s like comparing apples to oranges.

Q: How do I store leftover key lime poke cake?

Leftover cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.

Q: Can I freeze key lime poke cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving – it will still be moist and delicious!

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