Why You’ll Love Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe

This Key Lime Pound Cake is a twist on the traditional pound cake, with the addition of fresh Key lime juice and zest, which brightens up the dense and buttery texture. The glaze, made with Key lime juice, adds an extra layer of tangy sweetness. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also delivers the perfect blend of rich and refreshing flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

3 cups white sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup shortening
3 cups cake flour, sifted
½ teaspoon baking powder
⅛ teaspoon salt
6 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup Key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons Key lime juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan and line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together sugar, butter, and shortening until light and fluffy.
Sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture and eggs to the creamed butter mixture, alternating between the two.
Stir in Key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, Key lime juice, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Variations

Add Coconut: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flavor boost.
Key Lime Pie Twist: Add a layer of whipped cream between slices for a more decadent experience.
Change the Glaze: For a twist, replace the Key lime juice in the glaze with orange or lemon juice.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold.

FAQs

How long does Key Lime Pound Cake last?

The cake will last up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator if stored properly.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the Key Lime Pound Cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes?

While Key limes provide a unique flavor, regular Persian limes can be used as a substitute. The taste may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this cake without the glaze?

Yes, the cake is still flavorful without the glaze, though it adds an extra layer of sweetness and citrus flavor.

Can I use a different pan for baking?

A 10-inch bundt pan can also work if you don’t have a tube pan. Just be sure to grease and flour it well.

How can I make the cake more moist?

Using heavy cream and not overbaking the cake will keep it moist. You can also try adding a bit more butter or sour cream.

Can I add more lime zest for a stronger flavor?

Yes, if you love lime, feel free to add extra zest to intensify the flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour for the cake flour, but the texture might vary slightly.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can also check if the cake starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.

Can I use a stand mixer for this recipe?

Yes, a stand mixer works perfectly for creaming the butter and sugar, making the process easier and faster.

Conclusion

Key Lime Pound Cake is the perfect dessert for those who enjoy a balance of rich and tangy flavors. Its buttery texture combined with the citrusy punch of fresh Key lime juice makes it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this cake is sure to impress!

Key Lime Pound Cake

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This Key Lime Pound Cake is a perfect balance of rich, buttery texture and refreshing citrus flavor. Infused with the tangy zest of Key limes, this cake makes for an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating or simply indulging, this cake will impress your guests with its bright, irresistible taste.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Yield: 12-16 slices
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan.
Cream together sugar, butter, and shortening. Sift dry ingredients.
Add the dry ingredients and eggs alternately to the creamed mixture.
Stir in Key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.
Pour into pan and bake for 1.5 hours. Cool for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled cake.

Notes

Use fresh Key limes for the best flavor.
Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.