Lime Cake From Scratch: The Secret Ingredient to a Moist Cake

If you’re craving a zesty, soft, and sweet treat that’s bursting with citrus flavor, this lime cake from scratch is your new go-to dessert. Whether you’re baking for a summer get-together, a birthday, or just because you love limes, this cake delivers a moist crumb, tangy lime notes, and a perfect balance of sweetness.

But here’s the real magic: What is the secret ingredient to a moist cake? In this recipe, we reveal it—and trust us, you probably have it in your pantry already.

📝 Ingredients List

Make sure your ingredients are room temperature for the fluffiest results.

For the Lime Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup full-fat sour cream (the secret ingredient to a moist cake!)
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lime Syrup:

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Glaze (Optional but recommended!):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh lime juice
• ½ tsp lime zest for garnish

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make the best lime cake from scratch:

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cream Butter & Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. This step helps create a soft cake base.

4. Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5. Add Flavor

Stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.

6. Combine Wet & Dry

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

7. Bake

Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

8. Make Lime Syrup

While the cake bakes, prepare the syrup: Heat lime juice and sugar in a small pan until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

9. Soak the Cake

Once out of the oven, poke small holes all over the cake using a skewer and slowly pour the syrup over the warm cake. This locks in moisture and enhances the lime flavor.

10. Cool & Glae

Let the cake cool completely, then drizzle with glaze and sprinkle with lime zest.

🌟 Expert Baking Tips

• Sour cream is truly the secret ingredient to a moist cake—it adds richness and keeps the crumb tender.
• Don’t overmix the batter; stir until ingredients are just combined.
• Zest your lime before juicing. It’s easier and you get more flavor.
• Use fresh lime juice, not bottled. It makes all the difference.
• Let the cake sit overnight for a stronger lime flavor the next day!

🔄 Ingredient Substitutions

• Sour cream substitute: Use Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
• Lime: Wondering, Can I replace lemon with lime for cake? Absolutely. Lemon and lime are interchangeable in most citrus cake recipes.
• Flour: Gluten-free 1:1 blends work, but the texture might be denser.

⏱️ Additional Info

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

(Approximate – may vary by ingredients used)

• Calories: 360
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 45g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 4g

❓ FAQ Section

What is the secret ingredient to a moist cake?

Sour cream! It adds fat and moisture, making your lime cake soft and rich.

Can I replace lemon with lime for cake?

Yes! Lime offers a tangy brightness that works beautifully in cakes, just like lemon.

How to make lime syrup for cake?

Mix fresh lime juice with sugar and simmer until dissolved. Pour over the warm cake to lock in flavor and moisture.

What is the easiest cake flavor to make?

Vanilla or citrus-based cakes like this lime cake are among the easiest—no complex fillings or frostings needed.

💬 Call to Action

Craving a citrusy treat? Try this lime cake from scratch and taste the bright, fresh flavor of summer in every bite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and rate the recipe after you try it! Sharing your results helps other bakers—and makes my day.

Looking for inspiration? Try our soft lemon loaf recipe or discover great ideas like citrus glaze cake ideas.