Key Lime Poke Cake

Key Lime Poke Cake is a refreshing, zesty dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer. With moist white cake infused with tart lime gelatin and topped with a creamy, tangy key lime filling and whipped topping, this cake is the ultimate sweet-and-sour treat. It’s bright, beautiful, and guaranteed to bring a burst of sunshine to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and citrusy with just the right amount of tartness
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and a boxed cake mix for convenience
• Great for making ahead—flavors get better as it chills
• Feeds a crowd, making it ideal for potlucks, BBQs, and holidays
• Easy to customize with different toppings and garnishes

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White cake mix (15.25 oz box)
• Eggs
• Water
• Vegetable oil
• Lime gelatin mix (like Jell-O)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Heavy cream
• Key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• Lime zest
• Green food coloring (optional)
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Optional garnishes:

• Lime slices or wedges
• Lime zest
• Graham cracker crumbs

directions

1. Bake the cake:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the lime gelatin powder to the dry mix. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean, 25–30 minutes. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
2. Poke the cake:
   Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, about an inch apart.
3. Make the key lime filling:
   In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and food coloring if using. Pour the mixture slowly over the warm cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes. Smooth with a spatula.
4. Chill:
   Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to let the filling soak in and set.
5. Prepare the topping:
   In a medium bowl, mix the whipped topping with powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Spread evenly over the chilled cake.
6. Garnish and serve:
   Top with lime zest, lime slices, or graham cracker crumbs as desired. Keep chilled until serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 to 16
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour minimum
Total time: About 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

• Coconut key lime: Add shredded coconut to the topping or filling
• Graham cracker crust base: Press crushed graham crackers into the pan before adding cake batter for texture
• Key lime pie-inspired: Mix in some cream cheese with the topping for a cheesecake vibe
• Extra tart: Use more lime juice and zest for a punchier flavor
• Lime-only: Use regular limes if key limes aren’t available

storage/reheating

Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This cake is best served cold—no need to reheat. Let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving if desired.

FAQs

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

Yes, though key lime juice has a slightly more floral, tangy flavor. Regular lime juice works well as a substitute.

Do I have to use green food coloring?

Not at all—it’s just for visual appeal. The cake will still taste great without it.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Just whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla until stiff peaks form.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

Use the handle of a wooden spoon, chopstick, or thick skewer. Don’t poke all the way to the bottom to prevent leaking.

Can I make this a day in advance?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.

What’s the best way to zest limes?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the bright green part of the lime skin, avoiding the bitter white pith.

How do I make it more limey?

Add extra lime zest or drizzle with more key lime juice before topping for added zing.

Can I freeze key lime poke cake?

It’s not recommended due to the whipped topping and gelatin—it’s best enjoyed fresh or after refrigeration.

Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s sweet and fun! You can reduce the tartness by using less lime juice if needed.

Can I use yellow cake mix instead?

Yes, yellow or even lemon cake mix can work for a slightly different but still delicious version.

Conclusion

Key Lime Poke Cake is a refreshing, no-fuss dessert that brings bold citrus flavor and creamy texture together in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a party or treating yourself to something bright and tangy, this cake is sure to be a hit. Make it once, and it’ll become a regular on your dessert rotation.

Print