Key Lime Pound Cake with Key Lime Glaze

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Key Lime Pound Cake with Key Lime Glaze

Introduction: A Slice of Sunshine

Few desserts capture the tangy brightness of citrus quite like the Key Lime Pound Cake. A delightful twist on the traditional Southern pound cake, this dessert infuses the rich, buttery crumb of a classic cake with the vibrant tartness of key limes. Topped with a glossy, tangy glaze, this cake is a favorite at springtime brunches, summer picnics, holiday feasts, and quiet morning coffees alike. It’s sunshine in every bite—moist, fragrant, and unapologetically luscious.

A Little History: From the Keys to the Kitchen

The Key lime, a smaller, more aromatic cousin to the Persian lime, takes its name from the Florida Keys, where it flourished after being introduced by Spanish explorers. While Key Lime Pie may be its most famous culinary incarnation, creative bakers throughout the South sought new ways to showcase this zesty fruit—thus, the birth of the Key Lime Pound Cake.

Pound cake itself dates back to 18th century Europe, named for its original formula: a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Over the centuries, the recipe evolved, but its dense texture and rich flavor remained beloved.

Ingredients: The Flavorful Foundation

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup vegetable shortening (or substitute with additional butter)
  • 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup fresh key lime juice (or bottled if fresh is unavailable)
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Key Lime Glaze:

  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons key lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon key lime zest
  • Optional: A splash of milk for smoother texture

Instructions: The Method to the Magic

1. Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or use baking spray with flour. Set aside.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and shortening together until creamy and light—about 3–4 minutes. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is fluffy and pale in color, about 5–6 more minutes.

3. Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a silky batter that holds air for the perfect crumb.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Combine and Flavor

With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and the sour cream to the butter mixture—beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the key lime juice, zest, and vanilla. Mix until just combined; do not overbeat.

6. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Smooth the top and tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, key lime juice, and zest until smooth. Adjust consistency with more juice or a splash of milk if needed.

8. Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Let it set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Formation: Why It Works

The beauty of this cake lies in the balance: rich and dense from the butter and sour cream, but lifted by the brightness of key lime. The shortening adds tenderness, and the glaze gives a sweet pucker that brings everything together. The slow, low baking temperature allows the cake to cook evenly and develop a fine, golden crust.

Lovers of the Lime: Who Adores This Cake?

Southern grandmothers pass this recipe down like heirlooms. Wedding planners use it as a centerpiece at rustic summer receptions. Food bloggers love its photogenic glaze and zesty vibe. Citrus lovers crave it year-round. From Florida beach homes to Georgia porches, this cake has fans in every corner.

Conclusion: A Cake to Remember

The Key Lime Pound Cake is more than dessert—it’s an experience. A bite transports you to sun-drenched days and sweet Southern kitchens, where time slows and every slice is savored. Make it for a celebration or just because. Either way, it’ll win hearts and leave a lasting impression.

Want me to turn this into a printable recipe card or a styled webpage? Or maybe you’d like a variation—like coconut key lime or cream cheese glaze?

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