Craving a taste of summer in every bite? Dive into the world of Key Lime Pound Cake recipes, where the zesty freshness of Key limes meets the rich sweetness of a homemade pound cake. This simple yet tantalizing dessert is a quick fix for those sunny days when you need a burst of citrusy delight.
Imagine a spongey and tender cake infused with the bright, tangy essence of real Key limes, drizzled with a creamy Key lime icing that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a family picnic, or a sweet treat for yourself, this Key Lime Pound Cake is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Whip it up in minutes and savor the flavors of summer in every slice.
Ingredients
For the Pound Cake
- 384 g (3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 173 g (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 58 g (1/4 cup) cream cheese, room temperature
- 500 g (2 1/2 cups) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp key lime zest
- 6 eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 3 cups sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1/4 cup fresh Key lime juice
Equipment Needed
For this Key Lime Pound Cake recipe, you will need the following equipment to ensure a smooth baking process:
Mixer:
- A stand mixer or hand mixer for combining the ingredients thoroughly.
Mixing Bowls:
- Several mixing bowls in various sizes for preparing the cake batter and glaze.
Cake Pans:
- Two 9-inch round cake pans for baking the pound cake layers.
Zester:
- A zester for finely grating the key lime zest to enhance the citrusy flavor.
Juicer:
- A citrus juicer to extract the fresh key lime juice for the cake batter.
Cooling Rack:
- A cooling rack to cool the cake layers before assembly and glazing.
Saucepan:
- A saucepan for preparing the vanilla simple syrup to enhance the cake’s flavor and moisture.
Whisk:
- A whisk for mixing the simple syrup ingredients.
- Preheat your oven to the specified temperature for baking the pound cake.
Having these essential tools ready will streamline the baking process and help you create a delicious and visually appealing Key Lime Pound Cake.
Preparation Steps
Zesting and Juicing Key Limes
To begin making this delightful Key Lime Pound Cake, zest and juice the Key limes. For optimal flavor, zest about 4-5 Key limes to get that zesty essence. Then, juice the same Key limes to extract the fresh and tangy Key lime juice needed for the cake batter.
Preparing the Cake Batter
After zesting and juicing the Key limes, it’s time to prepare the cake batter. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add in the lime juice and eggs, beating until fully incorporated. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, mixing just until smooth after each addition. Finally, fold in the lime zest to infuse the batter with that vibrant lime flavor.
Baking Instructions
It’s time to bring this Key Lime Pound Cake to life with some simple and precise baking instructions. Following these steps will ensure you end up with a moist and flavorful cake that captures the essence of summer!
Making the Key Lime Glaze
To enhance the citrusy flavor and add a zesty kick to the Key Lime Pound Cake, making a Key Lime Glaze is the perfect finishing touch. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful glaze that complements the cake:
- Gathering the Ingredients:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest
- Mixing the Glaze:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, key lime juice, and key lime zest.
- Whisk the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and pourable consistency. Adjust the amount of lime juice for your desired thickness.
- Applying the Glaze:
- Once the Key Lime Pound Cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, drizzle the Key Lime Glaze over the top of the cake.
- Use a spoon or a pastry brush to evenly spread the glaze across the surface of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a decorative finish.
- Setting the Glaze:
- Allow the cake to sit for a few minutes to let the glaze set before slicing and serving. The glaze will slightly harden, adding a tangy and sweet layer to each bite of the cake.
- Finishing Touch:
- For an extra burst of flavor and presentation, sprinkle additional key lime zest on top of the glazed cake before serving. This will not only add a pop of color but also intensify the fresh lime aroma.
By following these steps to create and apply the Key Lime Glaze, you will elevate the Key Lime Pound Cake to a new level of citrusy perfection, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.
Assembling the Cake
Now that we have prepared the key lime pound cake batter and the graham cracker garnish, it’s time to assemble this citrusy delight.
Step 1: Preparing the Pan
- Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a 9×5-inch loaf pan generously to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Layering the Batter
- Begin by adding a layer of the prepared key lime pound cake batter into the buttered loaf pan.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of the graham cracker garnish over the batter evenly.
Step 3: Repeat the Layers
- Continue layering the batter and graham cracker garnish until the loaf pan is almost filled, leaving a little space at the top for the cake to rise.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Once all the batter and garnish are layered, gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake according to the recipe instructions until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes.
- Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
The key lime pound cake is assembled and ready to be enjoyed. The combination of zesty key lime flavor and the crunchy graham cracker garnish will surely delight your taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving my Key Lime Pound Cake in a variety of ways to cater to different occasions and preferences. Here are some delicious suggestions to complement this zesty and flavorful dessert:
1. Plain and Simple:
Enjoy a slice of this Key Lime Pound Cake on its own as a delightful sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee. The citrusy notes and moist texture of the cake shine through beautifully without any additional toppings.
2. Whipped Cream and Berries:
For a touch of elegance, serve the Key Lime Pound Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a handful of mixed berries on the side. The creamy whipped cream balances the tangy lime flavor, while the berries add a pop of color and freshness.
3. Key Lime Glaze:
Drizzle a simple key lime glaze over the cooled cake for an extra burst of citrus flavor. The sweet and tart glaze enhances the overall taste of the cake and provides a glossy finish that is both visually appealing and delicious.
4. Ice Cream Sandwiches:
For a fun twist, slice the Key Lime Pound Cake horizontally and use it to create mini ice cream sandwiches. Simply sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cake slices for a refreshing and indulgent dessert option.
5. Toasted Coconut:
Sprinkle toasted coconut shavings over the top of the cake slices before serving to add a crunchy texture and tropical flair. The combination of toasted coconut with the zesty lime flavor creates a delightful contrast that will impress your guests.
These serving suggestions are sure to elevate the Key Lime Pound Cake experience and make it a versatile dessert option for any gathering or celebration. Experiment with different toppings and presentation styles to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious treat.
Storage Tips
As a seasoned baker, I know that proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your Key Lime Pound Cake. Here are some tips to ensure your delicious cake stays moist and tasty for as long as possible:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cake within 1-2 days, store it at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. This will help preserve its moisture and prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the Key Lime Pound Cake. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. Remember to bring the cake to room temperature before serving to enhance its texture and flavors.
- Freezing: To extend the shelf life even further, you can freeze the pound cake. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying it.
- Slicing Before Freezing: If you prefer to freeze the cake in slices for portion control, pre-slice the cake before freezing. Place parchment paper between the slices to prevent them from sticking together. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever a craving strikes.
- Storage Duration: Properly stored, the Key Lime Pound Cake can last in the refrigerator for up to a week and in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Make sure to label the storage container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
By following these storage tips, you can savor the delightful flavors of your Key Lime Pound Cake over an extended period, making it a convenient and tasty treat whenever you desire a slice of summer in any season.
Conclusion
Key Lime Pound Cake recipes are a versatile and delicious option for any occasion. With their unique blend of tangy Key lime flavor and moist texture, they are sure to impress your taste buds. By following the provided instructions for preparation, serving, and storage, you can enjoy this delightful treat whenever the craving strikes. Whether enjoyed plain, with toppings, or as a frozen delight, Key Lime Pound Cake is a dessert that offers both convenience and flavor. So, next time you’re in the mood for a sweet and citrusy indulgence, give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a slice of Key Lime Pound Cake perfection.