1-First Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or spray. Room-temperature ingredients prevent lumps in this easy lime cake recipe. Gather all tools: mixer, bowls, zester, and measuring cups. This mise en place keeps things smooth for beginners.

2-Second Step: Cream 1 cup butter and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add 4 eggs one at a time, beating well after each. In another bowl, whisk 3 cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. Alternate adding dry mix and ¾ cup lime juice to the wet, starting and ending with dry. Fold in zest from 4 limes gently. The batter should be thick yet pourable for moist lime cake results. Taste a tiny bit adjust zest if needed for bolder flavor. Vegan tip: Use flax eggs here seamlessly.

3-Third Step: Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Rotate halfway for even baking. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack. This step locks in the key lime cake tenderness. Gluten-free bakes 5 minutes faster check early. The kitchen fills with citrus scent, signaling success.

4-Fourth Step: Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and ¼ cup butter until smooth. Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar and ¼ cup lime juice, mixing until creamy. For low-cal, lighten with neufchâtel cheese. Spread over completely cooled cake to avoid melting. Chill 30 minutes for set frosting that boosts lime drizzle cake vibes.

5-Final Step: Slice into 12 pieces. Garnish with lime slices or zest curls. Serve at room temp for best flavor. Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Pairs with berries or whipped cream. For parties, double the recipe in two pans. This best lime cake recipe yields tender slices everyone loves. Store as noted below. Adapt for dietary needs by noting swaps earlier.