Key Lime Poke Cake – If you’re a fan of vibrant citrus flavors, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Key Lime Poke Cake! Perfect for summer gatherings, holiday desserts, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day, this poke cake recipe combines the tangy taste of key lime with the creamy richness of a moist cake. It’s the ultimate dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

If you’re a fan of vibrant citrus flavors, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Key Lime Poke Cake! Perfect for summer gatherings, holiday desserts, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day, this poke cake recipe combines the tangy taste of key lime with the creamy richness of a moist cake. It’s the ultimate dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

There’s something undeniably refreshing about the tart and sweet balance of key lime desserts. The bright citrus flavor dances on your palate, making every bite feel like a tropical escape. This Key Lime Poke Cake takes that iconic key lime pie taste and transforms it into a delightful cake form. From the first slice to the last crumb, this dessert delivers a burst of sunshine in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe that gets requested again and again, earning a permanent spot in your go-to dessert lineup.

There’s something truly special about poke cakes. They’re soft, soaked with delicious fillings, and incredibly versatile. This key lime version is no exception, with its luscious combination of zesty lime and sweetened condensed milk.

This Key Lime Poke Cake pairs wonderfully with iced tea, tropical cocktails, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a surefire hit for potlucks, BBQs, and any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Poke Cake

• Bright and Tangy Flavor: The zesty key lime filling infuses every bite with refreshing citrus goodness.
• Moist and Luscious Texture: Poking holes allows the creamy filling to seep through, making the cake irresistibly moist.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make it perfect for beginners or a quick dessert fix.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a weeknight treat, this cake always hits the spot.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: The fluffy topping balances the tangy lime with a light, sweet finish.

Ingredients for Key Lime Poke Cake

Cake

• Pillsbury White Cake Mix: A boxed mix for convenience; follow the package directions for additional ingredients (typically eggs and oil).

Filling

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Rich and sweet, essential for the creamy filling.
• Half and Half or Heavy Cream: Provides a silky texture; choose either depending on your preference.
• Lime Juice: Adds the tangy, citrus flavor that balances the sweetness.
• Optional Green Food Coloring: For a festive, lime-inspired hue.

Frosting

• Whipped Vanilla Frosting: Convenient and lightly sweetened, or substitute with homemade whipped cream.
• Lime Juice (Optional): Adds extra zing to the frosting.
• Limes for Garnish: Perfect for decoration and enhancing the lime theme.

How To Make This Key Lime Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions and bake it as instructed.

Step 2: While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a spoon to poke numerous holes across the surface of the cake. The more holes, the better the absorption.

Step 3: Pour 1/2 cup of half and half or cream evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.

Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and 3/4 cup of half and half or cream.

Step 5: Quickly add lime juice to the mixture and immediately pour it over the cake. Use a spatula to work the lime filling into the holes. Note: The lime mixture sets rapidly once combined, so work swiftly.

Step 6: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Gently spread the frosting or whipped cream over the top of the chilled cake.

Step 8: Garnish with lime zest and slices for a vibrant presentation.

Step 9: Store the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Storage Options

Key Lime Poke Cake is a dreamy dessert that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent. With its tangy lime filling and creamy topping, it’s the perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings or a sweet ending to your everyday meals. To keep it fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Here’s how you can store your Key Lime Poke Cake like a pro:

In the Refrigerator

Since this cake contains a creamy topping and a luscious lime filling, refrigeration is a must to maintain its texture and prevent spoilage. Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Your Key Lime Poke Cake will stay delicious for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the lime filling to soften slightly.

In the Freezer

Yes, you can freeze Key Lime Poke Cake! It’s a fantastic way to prepare in advance or save leftovers. Here’s how:

1. Slice the cake into individual servings for easy thawing later.
2. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
3. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag.

Your Key Lime Poke Cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw a slice in the refrigerator overnight. For a quick fix, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Whether you’re savoring it fresh or enjoying it later, this Key Lime Poke Cake will always deliver a burst of citrusy goodness!Variations and Substitutions

• Crust Swap: Use graham crackers or crushed vanilla wafers for a Key Lime Pie vibe.
• Citrus Twist: Swap key lime juice with lemon or orange juice for a zesty twist.
• Topping: Replace whipped cream with cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
• Cake Mix: Opt for lemon or plain vanilla cake mix if key lime is unavailable.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make it allergy-friendly.
• Tropical Flair: Add shredded coconut or diced pineapple for an island-inspired touch.

This easy Key Lime Poke Cake recipe is a citrus lover’s dream. Bursting with flavor, super moist, and incredibly simple to make, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a summer party or craving something sweet and refreshing, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

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• Cake:
• 1 box
• Filling:
• 1 can
• 1 ½ cups half-and-half or heavy cream
• ½ cup lime juice
• Optional: green food coloring
• Frosting:
• 1 container
• Optional: lime slices and zest for garnish

• Prepare the Cake:
• Bake the cake according to the package directions.
• Once baked, use the handle of a spoon to poke holes all over the cake. (The more holes, the better the cake will absorb the filling.)
• Add Cream:
• Evenly pour ½ cup of half-and-half or cream over the holes in the cake.
• Make the Filling:
• In a large bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with ¾ cup of half-and-half or cream.
• Quickly add the lime juice to the mixture and stir. (The filling will set very fast once the lime juice is added, so work quickly.)
• Fill the Cake:
• Pour the lime filling over the cake and use a spatula to work it into the holes. There will be some filling left on top, which is fine.
• Chill:
• Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the filling set.
• Frost the Cake:
• Gently spread whipped frosting or whipped cream over the top of the chilled cake.
• Garnish and Serve:
• Garnish with lime zest and lime slices, if desired.
• Store the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve.