If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with zesty freshness yet offers the comforting richness of a classic cake, this Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a dense, buttery pound cake imbued with the bright, tangy essence of fresh key limes, perfectly balanced to make every bite a little celebration. It’s the kind of treat that invites you to pause, savor, and share—whether at a casual afternoon gathering or as a sweet finale to a special meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, relying on just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have. Each one plays a critical role, from the creamy butter that gives moisture and richness, to the fresh key lime juice that delivers that signature citrus punch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a tender crumb without being too dense.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for a luscious bite.
- 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s tender texture.
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice: The star ingredient that gives the cake its distinctive tart and aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the lime flavor with a subtle warm sweetness.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly for a light yet dense pound cake texture.
How to Make Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your loaf pan is key to ensuring the cake doesn’t stick, so take a moment to coat it evenly with butter or a non-stick spray. This small step guarantees a smooth release, making your final presentation flawless.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process is the secret to infusing air into the batter, which helps your pound cake develop that delicate crumb despite its dense nature. Be patient and thorough with this step for the best texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to keep the mixture smooth and emulsified. Stir in the vanilla extract to bring a comforting depth that complements the bright lime without overpowering it. This gradual mixing ensures an even, tender batter throughout.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Key Lime Juice
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add this to the wet ingredients, alternating with the fresh key lime juice. This technique prevents lumps and promotes even distribution of flavors. The key lime juice is what truly transforms a traditional pound cake into something remarkable.
Step 5: Pour and Level Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to level the surface. This helps the cake bake evenly, ensuring a beautiful rise that’s golden and inviting. Don’t rush this step—an even batter means a perfectly shaped Key Lime Pound Cake every time.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean when the cake is ready. The cake’s edges will be gorgeously golden brown, signaling that crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the moist, zesty interior.
How to Serve Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a light lime glaze can elevate the appearance and flavor without detracting from the cake’s natural charm. Fresh lime slices or zest add a pop of color and hint at the delicious citrus inside. Whipped cream is always a welcome companion, lending a creamy softness that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a well-rounded dessert experience. A dollop of mango salsa or a drizzle of coconut cream can add an unexpected tropical twist. This flexibility makes the Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe perfect for experimenting with your favorite summer flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, slice the cake into mini loaf portions and serve with small dollops of lime-flavored frosting on individual plates. Alternatively, turn it into a trifle by layering cake cubes with fresh fruits and whipped cream in clear glasses—instantly impressive and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap your Key Lime Pound Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days—perfect if you want to enjoy it leisurely or share over a few days.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Freezing allows you to keep this delightful cake on hand for unexpected guests or sudden dessert cravings.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm in a low oven to revive that fresh-baked feel. This little touch makes the cake taste as if it just came out of the oven, enhancing the buttery, lime-infused aroma that draws everyone in.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Absolutely! While key lime juice has a slightly different, more floral and tart flavor, regular lime juice can be a great substitute. Just keep in mind that it may alter the traditional flavor profile slightly, but your cake will still be delicious.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the salt content in your cake, which is important for balancing flavors. However, if you only have salted butter, you can use it but skip adding any extra salt in the recipe if applicable.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain the structure of the pound cake. Baking times might need a slight adjustment.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Avoid opening the oven door too early to prevent the cake from sinking.
Can I add a glaze or frosting to the cake?
Yes, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and fresh lime juice complements the cake beautifully. Cream cheese frosting is another delicious option if you want to add a little extra sweetness and creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new every time. Whether you’re making it for a casual coffee break or to impress guests, the balance of buttery richness and bright citrus will win hearts and smiles. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your most-loved go-to desserts!
Print
Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Key Lime Pound Cake is a delightful twist on a classic pound cake, infused with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh key lime juice. Perfectly moist and tender, this cake combines the richness of butter and eggs with a refreshing citrus zing, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan thoroughly to ensure the cake does not stick while baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture turns light in color and fluffy in texture. This step incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the lightness of the cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition for even incorporation. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Lime Juice: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mix into the wet ingredients, alternating with the fresh key lime juice—this means adding some flour mixture, then lime juice, and repeating until all are incorporated—to maintain batter consistency and balance flavors.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the fully mixed batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking. Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cake turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pound cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes for neater slices when serving.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor, but regular lime juice can be substituted in a pinch.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- You can dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or garnish with lime zest for extra aroma and presentation.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
