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Key Lime Poke Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 1 review
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Key Lime Poke Cake is a refreshing and tangy dessert that combines a moist yellow cake with a luscious key lime filling. The cake is baked, then poked with holes to allow the zesty lime gelatin mixture to soak in, creating bursts of citrus flavor in every bite. Topped with creamy whipped topping and garnished with lime zest, this cake is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a bright, delightful treat.

Ingredients

Cake:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 1 cup water
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs

Lime Filling:

  • 1 package lime-flavored gelatin mix (3 oz)
  • 1 cup key lime juice (bottled or fresh)
  • ¾ cup white sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • Green food coloring (optional)

Topping and Garnish:

  • 1 container whipped topping (8 oz, thawed)
  • Extra lime zest (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture for 2 minutes until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes.
  2. Poke Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake about an inch apart to allow the lime filling to soak in thoroughly.
  3. Prepare the Lime Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the lime gelatin mix, key lime juice, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat, then add the butter and lime zest. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Add green food coloring if desired to enhance the color.
  4. Pour Filling Over Cake: Pour the warm lime filling evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the poked holes. Let the cake cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set and chill.
  5. Add Whipped Topping: Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices for a decorative finish. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use fresh key lime juice for a more authentic and vibrant lime flavor, but bottled juice works well too.
  • The green food coloring is optional and only used to enhance the visual appeal of the lime filling.
  • Make sure to chill the cake well after pouring the lime filling to allow the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set properly.
  • You can substitute the whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a richer taste.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://suerecipe.com/key-lime-poke-cake-recipe/