Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Cake Batter:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the key lime juice and lime zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting:

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well incorporated.
• Add the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.
• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top.
• Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Garnish:

• Decorate with lime slices and additional lime zest as desired.

Serve:

• Slice and enjoy your refreshing Key Lime Cake!

Storage

• Store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious Key Lime Cake!