Key Lime Pound Cake

Infused with the juice and extract of key limes, this Key Lime Pound Cake is a delightful summer dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor in every slice. Its buttery texture and zesty glaze make it perfect for picnics, parties, or just a sweet treat at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in comfort food, this cake will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Key Lime Pound Cake
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
• Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Bake the Cake
• Step 6: Make the Glaze
• Step 7: Glaze Your Cakes
• Final Step: Enjoy!
• How to Serve Key Lime Pound Cake
• Enjoy it Plain
• Top with Fresh Berries
• Serve with Whipped Cream
• Pair with Ice Cream
• Drizzle with Extra Key Lime Glaze
• Garnish with Lime Zest
• How to Perfect Key Lime Pound Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pound Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Key Lime Pound Cake
• Reheating Key Lime Pound Cake
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
• How do I know when my Key Lime Pound Cake is done?
• Can I add more lime flavor?
• How should I serve Key Lime Pound Cake?
• Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavors: The natural taste of key limes adds a refreshing twist that elevates this classic pound cake.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this delicious dessert.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Perfect for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or an ordinary afternoon tea.
• Decadent Glaze: The key lime glaze complements the cake beautifully, adding sweetness and vibrancy to each bite.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields enough slices to share with friends and family, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Key Lime Pound Cake, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Using the right equipment can enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Sifter or whisk
• Loaf pans (9×5-inch)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures even mixing and aeration for a light and fluffy batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for organized ingredient prep.
• Cooling rack: Helps prevent soggy bottoms by allowing airflow around the cake as it cools.

Ingredients

Infused with the juice and extract of key limes, this buttery and rich pound cake is the perfect summer dessert!

Ingredients:
– 3 cups flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/2 cups sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 2 teaspoons lime zest
– 5 large eggs
– 1 cup whole or 2% milk

Key Lime Glaze:
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk, to consistency
– 1 teaspoon lime zest

How to Make Key Lime Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and lightly flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift or whisk together the following:
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together:
2 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened

Beat until light and fluffy. Then add:
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons lime zest
5 large eggs

Continue beating on high speed for about 2–3 minutes until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the flour mixture alternately with:
1 cup whole or 2% milk

Start with flour, then milk. Repeat until everything is combined. Beat on low speed just until smooth after each addition.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pans. Bake on the middle rack for about:
55 to 60 minutes

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. After baking, cool in the pans for about:
20 minutes

Then remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely (about two hours).

Step 6: Make the Glaze

Once cooled, prepare your glaze by whisking together:
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons milk
* 1 teaspoon lime zest

Adjust milk sparingly until you achieve a drizzle-able consistency.

Step 7: Glaze Your Cakes

Place each cooled cake on a cooling rack set over aluminum foil or parchment paper. Spoon the glaze over each cake, allowing excess to drip below. Let it set before transferring to a serving tray.

Final Step: Enjoy!

Once glazed, slice your Key Lime Pound Cake and serve it up! If you try this recipe, please return to let us know how it turned out in the comments!

How to Serve Key Lime Pound Cake

Key Lime Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with toppings, there are multiple serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

Enjoy it Plain

• This classic option allows the buttery flavor of the cake to shine through. Simply slice and serve!

Top with Fresh Berries

• Add a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a fresh burst of flavor that complements the citrus notes.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the cake beautifully.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or coconut ice cream can enhance each bite, making for a refreshing summer treat.

Drizzle with Extra Key Lime Glaze

• For those who can’t get enough of that key lime flavor, a little extra glaze adds sweetness and moisture.

Garnish with Lime Zest

• A sprinkle of lime zest on top brightens up the presentation and adds an extra zing to each slice.

How to Perfect Key Lime Pound Cake

To ensure your Key Lime Pound Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
• Sift Flour Mixture: Sifting flour helps aerate it, leading to a lighter texture in your pound cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding flour; overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven heats accurately. An incorrect temperature can affect baking times.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Let the cakes cool fully before adding glaze to prevent it from melting away.
• Store Properly: Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pound Cake

While Key Lime Pound Cake is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and complements the cake’s richness.
2. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats enhance the tropical vibe and pair wonderfully with lime flavors.
3. Lemon Sorbet
   A refreshing sorbet offers a tangy contrast that cuts through the sweetness of the pound cake.
4. Pineapple Salsa
   This sweet-and-spicy salsa adds an exciting twist that pairs nicely with the citrus notes.
5. Creamy Coleslaw
   The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw balance out the dense texture of the cake while offering contrast in flavors.
6. Minted Pea Salad
   This light salad provides brightness and freshness that enhance any dessert spread.
7. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
   Savory shrimp skewers make for a hearty addition that contrasts beautifully with dessert offerings.
8. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses creates an elegant finish for a dinner party or gathering alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Key Lime Pound Cake can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for success. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always let your ingredients come to room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so measuring flour and sugar correctly is vital. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.
• Skipping the Oven Preheat: Putting batter in an unheated oven can affect rising. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking powder or stale flour can ruin your cake. Check freshness before starting your recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Key Lime Pound Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the fridge to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Key Lime Pound Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for added protection.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Key Lime Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds; check frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Key Lime Pound Cake that might help you along the way.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

You can use regular limes, but the flavor will be different. Key limes have a unique tartness that enhances the cake’s taste.

How do I know when my Key Lime Pound Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If there’s wet batter, continue baking and check every few minutes.

Can I add more lime flavor?

Absolutely! Increase lime zest or juice slightly to intensify the lime flavor without altering the texture of the cake.

How should I serve Key Lime Pound Cake?

Serve plain, or top with whipped cream and fresh fruit for an extra treat. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels looking to create a delicious dessert.

Final Thoughts

The Key Lime Pound Cake is not only rich and buttery but also refreshingly zesty—ideal for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize with additional flavors or toppings like whipped cream or berries. Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy its bright flavors!