Key Lime Pound Cake

There’s something undeniably special about a Key Lime Pound Cake. The perfect balance of rich buttery texture and zesty citrus flavor makes it a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a summer gathering, a holiday treat, or simply craving something indulgent, this cake never fails to impress.

I first tried this recipe during a summer gathering, and it was an instant hit. The refreshing citrus notes of the Key lime perfectly balanced the rich, buttery texture of the pound cake, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Essential Ingredients

• White Sugar: Provides the sweetness that balances the tartness of the Key lime.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cake.
• Shortening: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture.
• Cake Flour: Sifted to ensure a delicate crumb and even baking.
• Baking Powder: A small amount helps the cake rise slightly.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the batter.
• Heavy Cream: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
• Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed for authentic flavor.
• Lime Zest: Adds a burst of citrus flavor without bitterness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Powdered Sugar: Used in the glaze to add sweetness and a smooth texture.

Preparing Your Cake

Preheating the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). This ensures even baking and helps the cake rise properly.

Preparing the Pan:

Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan and line it with parchment paper. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking and to ensure easy removal.

Creaming the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together sugar, butter, and shortening until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender cake texture by incorporating air into the mixture.

Sifting Dry Ingredients:

Sift the cake flour, baking powder, and salt into a separate bowl. Sifting helps aerate the flour and prevents lumps, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the flour mixture and eggs to the creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. This helps maintain a smooth, even batter. Be careful not to overmix once the flour is added, as this can make the cake tough.

Adding Liquids:

Stir in Key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined. These ingredients add the signature tangy flavor to the cake.

Baking the Cake:

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, spreading it out with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cooling the Cake:

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes before carefully removing it to cool completely. This step is important to prevent the cake from becoming soggy.

Making the Glaze:

Whisk together powdered sugar, Key lime juice, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Brush or drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak in for added flavor.

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Key limes are my favorite part of this recipe. Their unique aroma and slightly sweeter taste compared to regular limes add a depth of flavor that makes this cake stand out. My family loves how the tangy Key lime flavor balances the rich, buttery texture of the pound cake, making each bite a delightful experience.

Serving Suggestions

Key Lime Pound Cake is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can take your dessert experience to another level. The rich, buttery cake is balanced beautifully with light, fresh, and creamy accompaniments.

A bright and colorful fruit salad pairs wonderfully with the tangy citrus notes of the cake. The natural sweetness of strawberries, blueberries, mango, and pineapple enhances the flavors while providing a refreshing contrast to the dense texture of the cake.

A simple dollop of whipped cream with fresh raspberries or blackberries adds a creamy texture and slight tartness that balances the cake’s richness. For an extra twist, add a bit of vanilla extract or lime zest to the whipped cream.

A scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a classic pairing, but coconut ice cream enhances the tropical vibes of Key Lime Pound Cake. The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, buttery cake.

For those who love extra citrus flavor, a spoonful of lemon curd or a light lime drizzle over the cake adds a tart, creamy layer. The added acidity enhances the Key lime flavor and keeps each bite fresh and vibrant.

Sprinkling toasted coconut flakes on top of a cake slice adds a slight crunch and tropical sweetness. Toasting the coconut deepens its flavor, making it a great companion to the citrusy cake.

Flavor Twists

One of the best aspects of Key Lime Pound Cake is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and customize the recipe to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.

For a tropical twist, add a pinch of coconut extract to the batter. This will enhance the tropical flavors and pair beautifully with the Key lime.

If you prefer a nuttier flavor, fold in some finely chopped macadamia nuts or almonds into the batter. This adds a delightful crunch and complements the citrus notes.

For a boozy kick, add a splash of rum to the glaze. This will give the cake a grown-up twist and enhance the tropical flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover Key Lime Pound Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a just-baked taste. If reheating a whole cake, wrap it in foil and place in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Key Lime Pound Cake is a beautiful fusion of buttery richness and bright citrusy notes. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday treat, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is guaranteed to impress. With its moist crumb, tangy glaze, and perfect balance of flavors, it’s a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Best of all, it’s easy to customize—whether you add coconut, pair it with whipped cream, or drizzle it with chocolate. By following the expert tips, avoiding common mistakes, and storing it properly, you’ll enjoy a perfect Key Lime Pound Cake every time. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What ingredients do I need?

You need sugar, butter, shortening, cake flour, baking powder, salt, eggs, heavy cream, Key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.

→ How long does it take to prepare?

Prep time is 35 minutes, and total time is 2 hours 35 minutes.

→ Can I use bottled lime juice?

For the best flavor, use fresh Key limes instead of bottled juice.

→ Is it suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to a week.