Ingredients

7 large eggs, separated1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour1-3/4 cups sugar3 teaspoons baking powder1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 cup water1/2 cup canola oil1/4 cup lime juice4 teaspoons grated lime zest1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/2 teaspoon cream of tartarLIME CURD:4 large eggs1-1/2 cups sugar1/2 cup lime juice2 tablespoons grated lime zest1/8 teaspoon salt1/2 cup butter, cubed1-1/2 cups heavy whipping creamLime zest strips

Preparation

Let eggs stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks, water, oil, lime juice, lime zest and vanilla. Add to dry ingredients; beat until well blended. In another bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form; fold into batter.

Gently spoon into an ungreased 10-in. tube pan. Cut through batter with a knife to remove air pockets. Bake on the lowest oven rack at 325° for 45-50 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched. Immediately invert pan; cool completely, about 1 hour. Run a knife around sides and center tube of pan; set aside.

For lime curd, in a small heavy saucepan over medium heat, whisk the eggs, sugar, lime juice, zest and salt until blended. Add butter; cook, whisking constantly, until mixture is thickened and coats the back of a spoon. Transfer to a small bowl; cool for 10 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.

In a small bowl, beat cream until stiff peaks form; fold in 1-1/2 cups curd.

Cut cake horizontally into two layers. Place bottom layer on a serving plate; spread with remaining curd. Top with remaining cake layer; spread whipped cream over top and sides of cake. Garnish with lime zest.