Description

This refreshing Key Lime Poke Cake combines a moist white cake with a zesty Key lime filling that soaks deeply into the cake’s pores, topped with fluffy homemade whipped cream. The perfect balance of tart and sweet, this dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a citrusy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

1 box white cake mix, plus ingredients listed on the box

Key Lime Filling

1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
2/3 cup Key lime juice (bottled or fresh)
2 teaspoons lime zest, plus more for garnish
Yellow and green food coloring (optional)

Whipped Cream Topping

2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Slices of lime (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Cake: Follow the instructions on the box to make the white cake batter and bake it in a 9 x 13 inch pan. Allow the cake to cool for 5–10 minutes to slightly warm but not fully cool.
Poke Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon about 1/2 inch in diameter, poke holes approximately 1 inch apart all over the cake. Ensure each hole goes down to the bottom by twisting the spoon before pulling it back up. This helps the filling penetrate deeply.
Make Key Lime Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and lime zest. Stir in the Key lime juice and optional yellow and green food coloring to achieve desired color. The mixture will thicken immediately after adding lime juice—this is normal.
Add Filling to Cake: Pour the Key lime mixture evenly over the cake. Using a rubber spatula, gently spread the filling across the surface and sides, ensuring all holes are filled thoroughly.
Refrigerate: Loosely cover the cake with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 1 day. This allows the filling to soak in and firm up.
Whip Cream Topping: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar on high speed for 3–4 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Finish and Serve: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake. Garnish with additional lime zest and lime slices if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

For make-ahead instructions, the cake can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated after adding the filling.
Use a wooden spoon handle about 1/2 inch diameter to ensure large holes for filling absorption.
Food coloring is optional; it helps enhance the lime color for a more vibrant presentation.
The filling will thicken after lime juice is added—this is expected and important for soaking.
Whipped cream can be sweetened more or less to taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Key Lime Poke Cake, lime dessert, poke cake, white cake, citrus cake, whipped cream topping, summer dessert