Name: Zesty Key Lime Pound Cake for Refreshing Spring Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 2 cups Granulated Sugar; 4 large Eggs; 3 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 cup Buttermilk (or substitute with milk and vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)); 1/2 cup Lime Juice (fresh); 2 tablespoons Lime Zest (fresh zested); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (fresh)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the sun begins to cast a golden glow on warm afternoons, I often crave something that embodies that refreshing, laid-back vibe. This is where my Refreshing Key Lime Pound Cake shines, delivering a delightful twist on a classic treat. With its moist crumb and a zesty lime kick, this cake is not just a dessert; it’s an invitation to celebrate the flavors of spring and summer. The perks? It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to whip it up for unexpected guests, and it’s absolutely crowd-pleasing, ensuring everyone will be coming back for seconds. Whether you’re enjoying it at a sunny picnic or savoring a slice by yourself, this cake leaves a lasting impression. Are you ready to bake happiness into your day? Let’s get started!

Key Lime Pound Cake vczaqm

Why is Key Lime Pound Cake irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: This cake perfectly balances rich butteriness with tangy lime zest, offering a refreshing taste—perfect for warm days!
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet evening in, this Key Lime Pound Cake always impresses.
Crowd Favorite: Everyone loves a piece, especially with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair it with iced tea or lemonade for a complete springtime experience—this cake is versatile enough to fit any dessert table!

Key Lime Pound Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create its wonderful structure.
• Eggs – Adds moisture and structure; beat until light for a fluffy texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of this delightful Key Lime Pound Cake.
• Baking Soda – Essential for helping the cake rise, so don’t skip this ingredient!
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; you can substitute with milk and vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar).
• Lime Juice – The star of the show, providing a refreshing citrus flavor; fresh juice is preferred.
• Lime Zest – Enhances the lime flavor and aroma to elevate your cake.

Optional Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; perfect for drizzling over the finished cake for extra sweetness.
• Lime Juice – Use fresh juice for your glaze to maintain that refreshing flavor punch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Key Lime Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven is heating, grab a 10-inch tube pan and generously grease it with butter or non-stick spray. Ensuring that the pan is well-prepared will help your Key Lime Pound Cake release easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat them together on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, contributing to a soft, tender cake.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. It’s important to do this step slowly, allowing the mixture to emulsify and increase in volume. Continue mixing until the eggs are fully integrated, leaving your batter fluffy and airy, essential for a perfect Key Lime Pound Cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking soda. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the creamed butter and sugar, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can make your cake dense, so be gentle!

Step 5: Add Lime Juice and Zest
Stir in the fresh lime juice and lime zest until fully combined. This step brings that vibrant citrus flavor to your Key Lime Pound Cake. Make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to capture all the ingredients, ensuring that each slice reflects the zesty goodness of the cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the Key Lime Pound Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After this initial cooling period, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows the air to circulate around the cake, preventing sogginess and ensuring the perfect texture.

Expert Tips for Key Lime Pound Cake

Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter; this ensures the cake remains light and airy. Stir until ingredients are just combined to achieve that perfect texture!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter, allowing for better incorporation and a superior rise in your Key Lime Pound Cake.
Zest Fresh Limes: Fresh zest intensifies flavor. Make sure to zest only the green part of the lime, avoiding the bitter white pith for a bright, refreshing taste.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking the cake at 60 minutes to prevent overbaking. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for the ideal moist crumb.
Add Extra Zing: For enhanced flavor, try mixing in a teaspoon of lime extract along with the lime juice; it will deepen the citrus experience in your Key Lime Pound Cake!

What to Serve with Key Lime Pound Cake?

Indulging in a slice of this zesty cake is just the beginning—let’s elevate your dessert experience with these delightful pairings.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious touch, balancing the cake’s tartness while enhancing its moistness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the zesty, bright flavors of the Key Lime Pound Cake.
Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries and blueberries adds a burst of freshness, making each bite feel festive and vibrant—perfect for summer gatherings.
Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only looks beautiful on your plate but also enhances the refreshing taste, echoing the citrus notes beautifully.
Lemonade: Pairing with a tall glass of refreshing lemonade plays up the citrus flavors, making for a cheerful, sunny treat that quenches the thirst.
Iced Tea: A cold glass of sweetened iced tea rounds out the meal with its comforting, mild flavor, offering a delightful balance to the cake’s tangy notes.
Creamy Coconut Flan: For a tropical twist, try serving with a slice of coconut flan, whose smooth caramel notes provide a rich complement to the bright, zesty cake.
Pineapple Salsa: A small serving of pineapple salsa adds a tropical flair and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the cake’s zesty personality while introducing a refreshing crunch.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Elevate your cake with coconut whipped cream for a dreamy, rich topping that beautifully harmonizes with the lime flavors, leaving your taste buds dancing!

Make Ahead Options

These Key Lime Pound Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To maintain quality, make sure to store the batter in an airtight container to prevent any moisture loss. If you prefer, you can bake the cake ahead of time and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When ready to enjoy, serve at room temperature and consider drizzling a glaze made of powdered sugar and lime juice for that extra zesty kick—perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings!

Storage Tips for Key Lime Pound Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover Key Lime Pound Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, keeping it moist and fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days; just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To warm a slice, simply place it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For an extra touch, pair it with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!

Key Lime Pound Cake Variations

Customize your Key Lime Pound Cake to match your taste and occasion!

Lemon Twist: Swap lime juice and zest for lemon juice and zest for a lighter, citrus-flavored cake. Lemony goodness brightens the palate perfectly!
Creamy Glaze: Drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lime juice over the cooled cake for a tangy-sweet finish. This adds a wow factor and enhances the flavor.
Poppy Seed Delight: Mix in poppy seeds for a delightful crunch. They offer a lovely textural contrast and visual appeal, making each bite extra special.
Coconut Infusion: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist. This will give your cake a delightful chewiness, inviting flavors of paradise with every slice!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice profile alongside the citrus. It creates a cozy flavor experience, perfect for those chillier spring evenings.
Chili Heat: For a surprising kick, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes. Balanced well, this can turn your sweet treat into a delightfully spicy experience!
Fruit Medley: Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries alongside the lime for an added burst of flavor and color. This fruit twist brings freshness and excitement to each bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cake. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart lime, creating an indulgent dessert that truly stands out.

Pair your cake with a delightful beverage like iced tea or lemonade, just like the popular Lime Mousse Cheesecake or a slice of Bee Sting Cake for an extra treat!

Key Lime Pound Cake Recipe FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
Absolutely! While fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, if you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice will work. Just be mindful that fresh limes provide a brighter and more vibrant taste, enhancing the cake’s refreshing quality.

How should I store leftover Key Lime Pound Cake?
You can store your leftover Key Lime Pound Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to prolong its freshness, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to enjoy its optimal flavor and texture.

Can I freeze Key Lime Pound Cake?
Yes, indeed! This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air can get in, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature. If you want to warm it up afterward, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your Key Lime Pound Cake turns out dense, the most likely culprit is overmixing the batter. Try to mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Another tip is to ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to allow for better incorporation of air while mixing, resulting in a lighter texture.

Is this Key Lime Pound Cake safe for people with egg allergies?
Unfortunately, this recipe isn’t suitable for those with egg allergies since eggs play a crucial role in providing structure and moisture to the cake. However, you could try replacing the eggs with flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup applesauce per egg) as a substitute. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the cake’s texture and flavor.

How can I make my Key Lime Pound Cake sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter cake, consider adding a light glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lime juice on top of the cooled cake. This not only sweetens the cake but also adds another layer of zesty flavor. To make the glaze, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of lime juice until smooth, and drizzle it over the cake before serving.