Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe

Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Zesty key lime pound cake brings Florida’s sunshine into your kitchen, creating a tangy dessert that dances between sweet and tart. Creamy texture and bright citrus notes promise a delightful slice of tropical indulgence you won’t forget.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups (313 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • Zest of 2 key limes
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) key lime juice (freshly squeezed)

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) whole milk

Optional Topping:

  • Powdered sugar for dusting or key lime glaze

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C), positioning the rack in the center for even baking.
  2. Thoroughly coat a 9-5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan with butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
  3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and voluminous, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  4. Introduce eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth, uniform texture.
  5. Infuse the batter with vibrant key lime zest and tangy juice, stirring until evenly distributed.
  6. In a separate container, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt to eliminate potential lumps.
  7. Whisk sour cream and milk until achieving a silky, homogeneous consistency.
  8. Incorporate dry ingredients into the butter mixture in stages, alternating with the dairy blend, mixing gently to maintain a delicate cake structure.
  9. Transfer batter to the prepared pan, using a spatula to create an even surface.
  10. Bake for 55-65 minutes, rotating midway to ensure uniform browning, until a testing skewer emerges clean.
  11. Rest cake in the pan for 10 minutes to stabilize its structure.
  12. Carefully unmold onto a wire rack, allowing complete cooling.
  13. Enhance presentation by lightly dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with a zesty key lime glaze.

Notes

  • Select room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth blending and consistent texture throughout the cake.
  • Use fresh key lime zest and juice for the most vibrant and authentic citrus flavor profile.
  • Gently fold ingredients to prevent overmixing, which can lead to a dense and tough pound cake texture.
  • Substitute dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk and vegan butter for a plant-based version of this delightful dessert.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 337 kcal
  • Sugar: 23 g
  • Sodium: 176 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg