Key Lime Pound Cake – Moist, Buttery Cake with Zesty Citrus Glaze

 

Introduction

Key Lime Pound Cake is a bright, buttery dessert that perfectly balances rich texture with fresh citrus flavor. Inspired by the iconic taste of key lime desserts, this pound cake delivers a dense yet tender crumb infused with real lime juice and zest, then finished with a glossy key lime glaze that soaks into every slice. It’s refreshing, elegant, and completely irresistible.

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Unlike traditional heavy pound cakes, this version feels lighter thanks to the citrus notes, making it ideal year-round. It’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings, brunch tables, holidays, or anytime you want a dessert that feels special without being complicated. The tangy lime cuts through the richness of the butter, creating a cake that’s indulgent but never overwhelming.

This cake stores beautifully, slices cleanly, and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Whether served plain or dressed up with whipped cream and berries, Key Lime Pound Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients
For the Cake

3 cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened

3 cups granulated sugar

6 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup sour cream or whole milk

¼ cup fresh key lime juice

2 tablespoons key lime zest

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Key Lime Glaze

1 ½ cups powdered sugar

2–3 tablespoons key lime juice

1 teaspoon key lime zest

Next

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt or tube pan thoroughly, making sure to coat all crevices to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the sugar and beat for 4–5 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale. This step is essential for a tall, tender pound cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Step 5: Add Lime and Finish Batter

Mix in the sour cream (or milk), key lime juice, zest, and vanilla. Reduce mixer speed to low and add the dry ingredients gradually, mixing just until combined.

Variation

Coconut Key Lime Pound Cake: Add shredded coconut to the batter.

Cream Cheese Version: Replace ½ cup butter with cream cheese for extra richness.

Lemon-Lime Cake: Combine lemon and lime zest for a citrus blend.

Mini Pound Cakes: Bake in loaf pans or mini bundt pans.

No-Glaze Option: Dust with powdered sugar for a lighter finish.