Key Lime Poke Cake

Table of Contents

A tangy, refreshing twist on classic poke cake, this Key Lime Poke Cake is bursting with citrus flavor and topped with a creamy lime frosting. Perfect for summer parties or whenever you crave a bright, tropical dessert!

🍰 Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)

½ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp lime zest (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Frosting:

1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp key lime juice

½ tsp lime zest (for garnish)
Green food coloring (optional, for vibrancy)

Optional Toppings:

Crushed graham crackers (for a “Key Lime Pie” crust effect)

Fresh lime slices
Toasted coconut flakes

📝 Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare cake mix as directed on the box and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
Let cool for 10-15 minutes, then poke holes all over the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon (about ½-inch apart).

2. Make the Lime Filling

In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice until smooth.

Stir in lime zest (if using).
Slowly pour the mixture over the warm cake, letting it seep into the holes.

3. Chill

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.

4. Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, fold together whipped topping, powdered sugar, key lime juice, and a drop of green food coloring (if desired).
Spread evenly over the chilled cake.
Garnish with lime zest, graham cracker crumbs, or lime slices.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Slice and serve cold for the best texture.

💡 Tips & Variations

Extra Lime Kick? Add 1-2 tsp lime extract to the cake batter.
Shortcut Version: Use pre-made lime curd instead of the condensed milk mixture.

Gluten-Free? Swap in a GF cake mix.
No Cool Whip? Make homemade whipped cream (1 cup heavy cream + 2 tbsp sugar, whipped to stiff peaks).

This Key Lime Poke Cake is a crowd-pleaser—creamy, zesty, and irresistibly moist! Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or just because. 😋🍈

Would you like a version with a graham cracker crust layer? Let me know!