Key Lime Pound Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Key Lime Pound Cake because it combines the classic richness of pound cake with the refreshing, citrusy zing of key lime. The cake is incredibly moist and tender, with a delightful balance between sweetness and tang. The key lime zest and juice give it a fresh, bright flavor that’s perfect for warmer weather or any time I want something a little different from the usual. It’s easy to make, and the cake always comes out with a beautiful crumb and a delicious citrus fragrance. It’s the perfect way to bring a little sunshine to your day!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt
  (Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a Bundt pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the key lime zest and juice.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes (if using a loaf pan) or 45-55 minutes (if using a Bundt pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Serve as is or top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze made from powdered sugar and key lime juice for extra sweetness.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields around 10-12 servings, depending on how thick you slice the cake. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and baking time takes 45-65 minutes, depending on the pan size. It’s easy to make, and the cake is perfect for both casual and special occasions.

Variations

This cake is easy to adapt if you want to experiment with different flavors:

• If you prefer a different citrus flavor, you can swap the key limes for regular limes or even lemons for a slightly different taste.

• For added texture and flavor, you can fold in some chopped macadamia nuts or shredded coconut to the batter.

• You can also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, key lime juice, and a little bit of milk over the cooled cake for extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

This cake keeps well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For the best flavor, I recommend serving it at room temperature, but you can warm it slightly in the microwave or oven if you prefer it a bit warmer.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without key limes?

Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are unavailable. The flavor may be slightly different, but the cake will still have that lovely citrusy zing.

Can I freeze the Key Lime Pound Cake?

Yes, this cake freezes beautifully! I usually slice it into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with dairy-free butter or oil, and you can also use a dairy-free milk alternative. The texture and flavor will be a bit different, but it should still work well.

Can I add a glaze to this cake?

Absolutely! A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and key lime juice can be drizzled over the cake for an added sweetness and citrus flavor. It’s a great way to enhance the flavor and appearance of the cake.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can use whole wheat flour, but the cake will have a denser texture. If you prefer a lighter texture, I recommend sticking to all-purpose flour or using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

This Key Lime Pound Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the richness of pound cake with the bright, tangy flavor of key limes. It’s perfect for serving with a cup of tea or as a refreshing finish to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy with family and friends, this cake is sure to be a hit with its soft, tender crumb and zesty citrus flavor. It’s a delightful way to bring a little sunshine into your kitchen!