This light and fluffy Key Lime Angel Food Cake is a sunny treat! Made with zesty key lime juice and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s perfect for any gathering or a sweet snack.
I love how this cake feels like summertime with every bite! It’s so airy, I almost feel like I’m floating. A dollop of whipped cream on top? Yes, please! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Angel Food Cake Mix: This mix is key for fluffy texture. If you’d like to make it from scratch, use egg whites, cake flour, and sugar. I find the mix saves time and gives great results.
Key Lime Juice: Fresh juice is best for flavor. If you can’t find key limes, regular limes work as a substitute. Just note they might be a bit less sweet. I love using fresh juice—I think it makes a noticeable difference!
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is perfect for a rich, creamy topping. For a lighter option, you could use cool whip. However, homemade whipped cream has a nicer flavor in my opinion.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Your Cake Rises Perfectly?
Ensuring your angel food cake rises high and stays fluffy can be tricky. Start with fresh ingredients—especially the egg whites. Here’s how to prepare the batter for great results:
- Use room-temperature egg whites if you make the batter from scratch. They whip better.
- Mix gently but thoroughly to avoid lumps while maintaining air in the batter.
- Don’t grease the pan! This helps the cake to cling to the sides as it rises.
Remember, the cooling step is super important! Inverting the cake lets it cool without collapsing, keeping that airy texture.
Best Key Lime Angel Food Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box (about 11 oz) angel food cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh key lime juice (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lime slices, for garnish
- Additional key lime zest, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep the batter and then 35-40 minutes to bake the cake. After baking, give it about 1-2 hours to cool completely. So, in total, you’re looking at around 2-2.5 hours from start to delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remember, do not grease the angel food cake pan, as this is essential for the cake to rise properly.
2. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix, water, fresh key lime juice, key lime zest (if using), and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on high speed and beat for about 3 minutes until the batter is nice and fluffy.
3. Transfer to Pan:
Pour the fluffy batter gently into your ungreased tube pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to make it even.
4. Bake It Up:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check when the top is golden brown. You can poke it with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s done!
5. Cool the Cake:
Once baked, immediately invert the pan over a bottle or funnel neck to cool upside down for about 1-2 hours. This helps the cake retain its height and prevents it from collapsing.
6. Release the Cake:
After the cake has cooled, gently run a thin knife around the edges and the center tube to loosen the cake. Carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a serving plate.
7. Whip the Topping:
For a creamy topping, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. This gives you a lovely light texture on top of the cake.
8. Frost and Garnish:
Spread the whipped cream generously over the top of the cooled cake. Decorate with lime slices and a sprinkle of additional key lime zest for that extra touch!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Slice the cake and serve it up! Enjoy the light, fluffy texture with the refreshing and tangy lime flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion!
This cake is airy and tangy with a perfect balance of sweetness and citrus zing—ideal for a refreshing dessert!
Can I Use Regular Lime Juice Instead of Key Lime Juice?
Absolutely! If key limes aren’t available, regular limes work just fine. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
If you want to make a gluten-free version, look for a gluten-free angel food cake mix. Just ensure all other ingredients (like the whipped cream) are also gluten-free for a safe treat.
Can I Store Leftover Cake?
Yes! Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Prevent the Cake from Collapsing?
Inverting the cake immediately after baking is crucial! This allows it to cool properly and maintain its height. Make sure to use an ungreased pan to help it cling while rising!
