Key Lime Poke Cake

Key Lime Poke Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box white cake mix
Use your favorite brand of white cake mix as the soft, fluffy base for this poke cake.

Ingredients listed on the cake mix box
Prepare the cake according to the package directions, usually with eggs, oil, and water.

For the Key Lime Filling

1 can sweetened condensed milk, 14 ounces
Adds sweetness, richness, and a creamy texture to the lime filling.

3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
Helps make the filling smooth, rich, and silky.

1/2 cup bottled key lime juice
Gives the cake its bright, tangy key lime flavor.

Zest from 1 lime
Adds fresh citrus aroma and a stronger lime taste.

For the Whipped Topping

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Creates a light, fluffy homemade whipped topping.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds warmth and a soft sweetness to the whipped cream.

1/2 cup powdered sugar
Sweetens the topping and helps it hold its shape.

Instructions

Prepare the white cake batter according to the directions on the package. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as instructed on the box.

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, gently poke holes all over the top of the cake. Be careful not to press all the way through to the bottom of the cake.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy whipping cream, and lime zest until smooth and fully combined.

Add the key lime juice to the mixture and whisk again. The filling will begin to thicken quickly.

Pour the key lime filling evenly over the warm cake. Use a spatula to spread it across the surface and help the filling sink into the holes.

Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. For a deeper flavor and better texture, you can chill it overnight.

While the cake is chilling, prepare the whipped topping. In a medium bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract.

Beat with an electric mixer until the cream begins to thicken. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.

Garnish with lime slices and extra lime zest if desired. Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy.