Tangy Delight: Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe

Key Lime Pound Cake is a luscious dessert that perfectly balances tangy citrus flavor with buttery richness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is a guaranteed showstopper. The zesty aroma of key limes will fill your kitchen, and the moist texture of the cake will leave everyone asking for seconds. Follow this recipe for a delightful homemade cake that’s sure to impress.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes

 

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons key lime zest
• 1/4 cup key lime juice

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons key lime juice
• 1 teaspoon milk (optional for thinning)

 

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the batter’s smooth consistency.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry and Wet Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, key lime zest, and key lime juice.
3. Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a dense cake.

Step 3: Baking the Cake

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease and lightly flour a 10-inch bundt pan or a loaf pan, ensuring the cake releases easily after baking.
2. Pour the Batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 4: Cooling and Glazing

1. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and key lime juice. Add a teaspoon of milk if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
3. Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides. For added flair, sprinkle extra key lime zest on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Key Lime Pound Cake on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream and a few slices of fresh key lime. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or a chilled lemonade for a delightful treat.

 

This Key Lime Pound Cake is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients combined with care. The bright citrus flavors and moist texture make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, it will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, zest those limes, and create a cake that brings a slice of tropical heaven to your table.