Margarita Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting: A Zesty Delight

Are you ready for a cake that screams summer, sunshine, and pure deliciousness? This Margarita Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is exactly what you need. Inspired by the classic cocktail, this cake delivers a tangy, citrusy punch that’s perfectly balanced by the rich, creamy frosting. It’s a showstopper for parties, potlucks, or simply a special treat for yourself. This recipe breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps, ensuring a moist, flavorful cake and a frosting that’s both tangy and sweet.

## Why You’ll Love This Margarita Cake

* **Unique Flavor:** The combination of lime, tequila (optional but highly recommended!), and a hint of orange liqueur creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and sophisticated.
* **Moist and Tender:** The cake is incredibly moist thanks to the use of oil and buttermilk.
* **Tangy Frosting:** The Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect complement to the cake, adding a creamy, tangy sweetness that balances the citrus notes.
* **Impressive Presentation:** This cake looks as good as it tastes. The vibrant green hue of the frosting and the optional lime wedges make it a visually stunning dessert.
* **Adaptable:** You can easily adjust the amount of tequila or lime juice to suit your preferences. You can also omit the tequila entirely for a non-alcoholic version.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Margarita Cake:

* **All-Purpose Flour:** 3 cups (360g) – Provides the structure for the cake.
* **Baking Powder:** 3 teaspoons – Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
* **Baking Soda:** 1 teaspoon – Works with the baking powder to create a lighter texture.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Granulated Sugar:** 2 cups (400g) – Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
* **Vegetable Oil:** 1 cup (240ml) – Contributes to the cake’s moistness.
* **Eggs:** 4 large – Provide structure, richness, and moisture.
* **Buttermilk:** 1 cup (240ml) – Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the cake.
* **Lime Juice:** 1/2 cup (120ml), freshly squeezed – Provides the signature lime flavor.
* **Lime Zest:** 2 tablespoons – Adds a concentrated lime flavor.
* **Tequila (optional):** 1/4 cup (60ml) – Adds a subtle tequila flavor that enhances the margarita experience. Blanco or silver tequila is best.
* **Orange Liqueur (optional):** 2 tablespoons – Such as Cointreau or Triple Sec, adds a touch of orange flavor and complexity.
* **Green Food Coloring (optional):** A few drops – To enhance the green color of the cake (gel food coloring is recommended for vibrant color).

### For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:

* **Cream Cheese:** 8 ounces (226g), softened – Forms the base of the frosting, providing a creamy texture.
* **Unsalted Butter:** 1/2 cup (113g), softened – Adds richness and helps create a smooth frosting.
* **Powdered Sugar:** 4 cups (480g) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
* **Key Lime Juice:** 1/4 cup (60ml), freshly squeezed – Provides the signature Key Lime flavor.
* **Key Lime Zest:** 1 tablespoon – Adds a concentrated Key Lime flavor.
* **Pinch of Salt:** Balances the sweetness.
* **Green Food Coloring (optional):** A few drops – To enhance the green color of the frosting (gel food coloring is recommended).

### For Garnish (optional):

* **Lime Wedges:** For a classic margarita garnish.
* **Lime Zest:** For extra flavor and visual appeal.
* **Coarse Salt:** For a margarita-inspired rim (use sparingly).

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Two 9-inch Round Cake Pans:** For baking the cake layers.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For mixing the ingredients.
* **Electric Mixer:** Stand mixer or hand mixer for creaming and mixing.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Rubber Spatula:** For scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding ingredients.
* **Wire Rack:** For cooling the cakes.
* **Offset Spatula:** For frosting the cake.
* **Piping Bag and Tip (optional):** For creating decorative frosting details.
* **Zester:** For zesting the limes.
* **Juicer:** For juicing the limes.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Part 1: Making the Margarita Cake

1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper circles for easy removal.

2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed.

3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, lime juice, lime zest, tequila (if using), and orange liqueur (if using). Ensure all ingredients are well combined.

4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a dense texture.

5. **Add Food Coloring (Optional):** If you’re using green food coloring, add a few drops and mix until you achieve your desired shade of green. Remember that a little goes a long way, so add it gradually.

6. **Divide Batter:** Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a kitchen scale for precise division, or simply eyeball it as best you can. Evenly distributed batter ensures that the cakes bake at the same rate and result in uniform layers.

7. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

8. **Cool:** Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cakes completely prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a stable final product.

### Part 2: Making the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting

1. **Cream Butter and Cream Cheese:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This is best done with an electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer). Make sure both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free frosting.

2. **Add Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined. Beating on low speed helps prevent a cloud of powdered sugar from escaping the bowl. Once all the powdered sugar is added, increase the speed to medium and beat until light and fluffy.

3. **Add Key Lime Juice and Zest:** Add the Key Lime juice and zest and beat until well combined. The Key Lime juice will thin out the frosting slightly, so adjust the amount of powdered sugar if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.

4. **Add Salt:** Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

5. **Add Food Coloring (Optional):** If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to enhance the color of the frosting.

### Part 3: Assembling the Margarita Cake

1. **Level the Cakes (Optional):** If the cakes have domed during baking, use a serrated knife to level the tops. This will create a more even and professional-looking cake.

2. **Place First Layer:** Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

3. **Frost the First Layer:** Spread a generous layer of Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting over the first cake layer.

4. **Place Second Layer:** Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosting.

5. **Frost the Entire Cake:** Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Use an offset spatula to create a smooth, even finish.

6. **Garnish (Optional):** Decorate the cake with lime wedges, lime zest, and a sprinkle of coarse salt around the base (use sparingly!). You can also pipe decorative frosting swirls on top using a piping bag and tip.

7. **Chill:** Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve.

## Tips for Success

* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Using room temperature butter, cream cheese, and eggs will help create a smooth and even batter and frosting.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the cake batter can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
* **Measure Accurately:** Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients and a liquid measuring cup for wet ingredients.
* **Taste as You Go:** Taste the frosting and adjust the amount of lime juice or powdered sugar to your liking.
* **Chill Before Serving:** Chilling the cake before serving allows the frosting to set and makes it easier to slice.
* **Fresh Lime Juice is Key:** Bottled lime juice lacks the vibrant flavor of fresh lime juice. Squeeze your own for the best results.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Non-Alcoholic Version:** Omit the tequila and orange liqueur for a non-alcoholic version. You can replace the tequila with extra lime juice or a splash of lime extract.
* **Different Citrus:** While Key Limes are traditional for Key Lime pie and frosting, regular limes can be used as a substitute. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but still delicious.
* **Coconut Margarita Cake:** Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the cake batter and toast the shredded coconut to sprinkle on top of the cake for garnish.
* **Strawberry Margarita Cake:** Puree fresh strawberries and swirl them into the frosting or layer them between the cake layers for a strawberry margarita twist.
* **Spicy Margarita Cake:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cake batter or frosting for a spicy kick.
* **Sheet Cake:** Bake the cake in a 9×13 inch pan for a sheet cake version. Adjust baking time accordingly.
* **Cupcakes:** This recipe can easily be adapted to make cupcakes. Reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Enjoy chilled:** This cake is best served chilled.
* **Pair with a margarita:** For the ultimate margarita experience, serve a slice of cake with a classic margarita.
* **Add a scoop of ice cream:** A scoop of vanilla or lime sherbet would be a delicious addition.
* **Offer fresh fruit:** Serve alongside fresh berries or other seasonal fruit.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The frosting contains cream cheese, so refrigeration is essential.
* **Freeze:** You can freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Frost the cake after it has thawed, if it has not been frosted yet.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

* **Can I make this cake ahead of time?** Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead of time. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. You can also make the frosting a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature and re-whip it before using.
* **Can I use bottled lime juice?** Freshly squeezed lime juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, but the flavor will not be as vibrant.
* **Can I use regular limes instead of Key Limes?** Yes, you can use regular limes, but the flavor will be slightly different. Key Limes have a more tart and floral flavor.
* **Can I add more tequila?** Be careful adding too much tequila as it could affect the cake’s texture. A quarter cup is sufficient for a subtle tequila flavor.
* **Why is my frosting runny?** Runny frosting is usually caused by adding too much liquid or not enough powdered sugar. Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
* **Why is my cake dry?** A dry cake can be caused by overbaking, using too much flour, or not enough liquid. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and don’t overbake the cake.

## Margarita Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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### Ingredients:

#### Margarita Cake:

* 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
* 3 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
* 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
* 4 large eggs
* 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
* 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
* 2 tablespoons lime zest
* 1/4 cup (60ml) tequila (optional)
* 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional)
* A few drops of green food coloring (optional)

#### Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:

* 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
* 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
* 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed Key Lime juice
* 1 tablespoon Key Lime zest
* Pinch of salt
* A few drops of green food coloring (optional)

#### Garnish (optional):

* Lime wedges
* Lime zest
* Coarse salt

### Instructions:

#### Margarita Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, eggs, buttermilk, lime juice, lime zest, tequila (if using), and orange liqueur (if using).
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
5. Add green food coloring (optional) and mix until desired shade.
6. Divide batter evenly between cake pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

#### Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
3. Add Key Lime juice and zest and beat until well combined.
4. Add a pinch of salt.
5. Add green food coloring (optional) and mix until desired shade.

#### Assembling the Cake:

1. Level the cakes if needed.
2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
3. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the first cake layer.
4. Place the second cake layer on top of the frosting.
5. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
6. Garnish with lime wedges, lime zest, and coarse salt (optional).
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this zesty and refreshing Margarita Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting! It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.