Key Lime Poke Cake

Key Lime Poke Cake is a vibrant and tangy dessert made with a soft cake base infused with key lime flavor and topped with creamy lime pudding and whipped topping. It’s a refreshing, chilled cake ideal for warm weather and citrus lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is incredibly easy to prepare and bursting with citrusy goodness. The “poke” method allows the key lime flavor to soak into every bite, creating a moist and flavorful texture. It’s light, luscious, and perfect for potlucks, parties, or as a make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• Lime-flavored gelatin or instant lime pudding mix
• Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
• Lime zest (for garnish)
• Green food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven and prepare cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Bake the cake and let it cool for 10 minutes.
3. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake.
4. In a bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk with key lime juice and lime gelatin or pudding mix.
5. Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
6. Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
7. Spread whipped topping over the chilled cake and garnish with lime zest and optional green food coloring.
8. Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–15
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Use lemon or orange gelatin for a citrus twist.
• Add a graham cracker crust base for a pie-inspired feel.
• Substitute fresh whipped cream for a homemade topping.
• Use coconut milk in the filling for a tropical spin.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
This cake is not suitable for freezing, as the texture may become soggy once thawed. Serve chilled and do not reheat.

FAQs

Can I use fresh limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular limes work well if key limes are not available, though the flavor will be slightly different.

What is the best cake mix to use?

A white or yellow cake mix is ideal, but lemon-flavored cake mix can intensify the citrus theme.

Can I make this cake from scratch?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade vanilla or citrus cake recipe instead of a boxed mix.

Is the gelatin or pudding mix necessary?

Yes, it enhances the texture and helps bind the key lime flavor into the cake.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes, the coloring is optional and only for visual appeal.

How do I make fresh whipped topping?

Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

How far in advance can I make this cake?

It can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

What’s the purpose of poking holes?

The holes allow the filling to soak into the cake, creating moist, flavorful layers.

Can I add a crust to the bottom of the cake?

Yes, pressing a graham cracker crust into the pan before adding the batter can create a pie-like texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and verify that the pudding or gelatin mix is also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Key Lime Poke Cake is a cool and zesty dessert that’s both eye-catching and incredibly easy to make. With its vibrant flavor and soft, moist texture, it’s a fantastic treat for summer gatherings or citrus-themed celebrations. This cake brings tropical brightness to any dessert table with minimal effort.

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