Key Lime Pound Cake

Why Make This Recipe

Key Lime Pound Cake is a delicious and refreshing treat that combines the classic flavors of pound cake with the bright, zesty taste of key lime. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a dessert for a dinner party, or simply a sweet indulgence for yourself. The combination of sweetness and tartness makes it a delightful choice for those who love citrus flavors. Plus, it’s simple to make, allowing even beginner bakers to achieve impressive results.

How to Make Key Lime Pound Cake

Ingredients

  • 1 (16.5 oz) box of vanilla pound cake mix
  • 3/4 cup cold water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tbsp key lime juice
  • 2 tbsp key lime zest
  • 3 drops lime gel food coloring (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 6 tbsp key lime zest
  • 4 tbsp key lime juice

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat two small loaf pans with non-stick baking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, cold water, melted butter, egg, key lime juice, key lime zest, and gel food coloring (if using).
  3. Divide the batter evenly between the two loaf pans and gently tap the pans on the countertop to release any air bubbles.
  4. Place the loaf pans on a large baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  5. Remove the cakes from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes before flipping them out of the pans.
  6. For the glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
  7. Place the cooled cakes on a wire rack with a baking sheet underneath to catch the glaze drips. Slowly pour the glaze over the cakes, allowing it to set before cutting and serving.

{Always add
Key Lime Pound Cake
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How to Serve Key Lime Pound Cake

Serve this refreshing cake on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. It can be enjoyed as dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack during the day. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.

How to Store Key Lime Pound Cake

To keep your Key Lime Pound Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will last in the freezer for up to three months.

Tips to Make Key Lime Pound Cake

  • Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
  • If you want a deeper lime flavor, feel free to add more zest or juice.
  • Let the glaze set completely before cutting the cake to avoid a messy presentation.

Variation

You can customize your Key Lime Pound Cake by adding ingredients like crushed graham crackers for a crusty texture, or even folding in coconut for a tropical twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
A: Yes, you can use regular lime juice if key lime juice is not available, but the flavor may be slightly different.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly to keep it fresh.

Q: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is lightly golden.

Slice of Key Lime Pound Cake with lime garnish on a plate

Key Lime Pound Cake

A delicious and refreshing treat that combines the classic flavors of pound cake with zesty key lime.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1 box 16.5 oz of vanilla pound cake mix
  • 3/4 cup cold water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tbsp key lime juice
  • 2 tbsp key lime zest
  • 3 drops lime gel food coloring (optional) Optional for color
For the glaze
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 4 tbsp key lime juice
  • 6 tbsp key lime zest

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat two small loaf pans with non-stick baking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, cold water, melted butter, egg, key lime juice, key lime zest, and gel food coloring (if using).
  3. Divide the batter evenly between the two loaf pans and gently tap the pans on the countertop to release any air bubbles.
Baking
  1. Place the loaf pans on a large baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  2. Remove the cakes from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes before flipping them out of the pans.
Making the glaze
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
  2. Place the cooled cakes on a wire rack with a baking sheet underneath to catch the glaze drips. Slowly pour the glaze over the cakes, allowing it to set before cutting and serving.

Notes

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for best results. If you want a deeper lime flavor, feel free to add more zest or juice. Let the glaze set completely before cutting the cake to avoid a messy presentation. You can customize by adding crushed graham crackers or folding in coconut for a tropical twist.

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