Key Lime Pound Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Icing
There are few things more delightful than the bright, citrusy flavor of key lime in a rich, buttery pound cake. Key lime pound cake with key lime cream cheese icing brings together the best of both worlds: the dense, tender crumb of a classic pound cake paired with the tangy sweetness of key lime in both the cake and the luscious cream cheese icing. This cake is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, holiday dessert tables, or any time you want to impress with a homemade treat that bursts with flavor. In this guide, you will learn how to make this irresistible cake from scratch, explore variations and tips, and find out why this dessert will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Cake
Key lime pound cake offers a unique twist on traditional pound cake by adding the bright, tart flavor of key limes. The contrast between the rich, buttery cake and the zesty icing creates a balanced dessert that is neither too heavy nor too sweet. This cake is versatile enough to serve at a casual afternoon tea or as the grand finale at a dinner party. The key lime cream cheese icing adds an extra layer of indulgence, making each bite irresistible. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and produces consistently delicious results.
Ingredients for the Cake
To make the perfect key lime pound cake, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup whole milk
1/4 cup fresh key lime juice
1 tablespoon key lime zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These simple ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful cake. Using fresh key lime juice and zest ensures that the citrus flavor shines through. The butter provides a tender crumb, while the eggs add structure and richness. Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, complementing the tartness of the key lime.
Ingredients for the Key Lime Cream Cheese Icing
For the icing, gather these ingredients:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons fresh key lime juice
1 teaspoon key lime zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This cream cheese icing is the perfect topping for the pound cake. It is rich and creamy with a delightful tang from the key lime juice and zest. The powdered sugar provides sweetness, while the cream cheese and butter create a smooth, spreadable texture.
How to Prepare Key Lime Pound Cake
Follow these steps to bake the perfect key lime pound cake:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Add the key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 70 to 80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Prepare the Key Lime Cream Cheese Icing
While the cake cools, prepare the icing:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add the key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until the icing is light and fluffy.
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the icing generously over the top and sides of the cake. For a more rustic look, you can drizzle the icing instead of spreading it.
Serving Suggestions
Key lime pound cake is a show-stopping dessert on its own, but you can elevate it further with a few thoughtful serving ideas:
Serve slices with fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries for added color and flavor.
Garnish with thin slices of key lime or a sprinkle of extra zest.
Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This cake stores beautifully, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or gifting. Here’s how to store it:
Refrigerator: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the icing.
Variations and Add-Ins
While the classic version of key lime pound cake is delightful, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or occasion:
Glaze Instead of Icing: If you prefer a lighter topping, drizzle the cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and key lime juice.
Coconut Key Lime Pound Cake: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
Lemon-Lime Variation: Use a combination of lemon and key lime juice and zest for a more complex citrus flavor.
Mini Pound Cakes: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual servings, perfect for parties or gifts.
Almond Key Lime Pound Cake: Add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract to the batter for a subtle nutty flavor.
Tips for Success
To ensure your key lime pound cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
Use room temperature ingredients. This helps create a smooth batter and even texture.
Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly. This step is key to achieving a light and tender crumb.
Do not overmix once you add the flour. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake.
Use fresh key lime juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled juice will not provide the same brightness.
Allow the cake to cool completely before icing. If the cake is too warm, the icing may melt and slide off.
The Appeal of Key Lime Desserts
Key lime desserts have a special place in the world of baking. The unique tartness of key limes sets them apart from other citrus fruits, providing a refreshing contrast to sweet, rich flavors. Key lime pie is perhaps the most famous key lime dessert, but key lime pound cake offers an equally delicious and slightly more indulgent alternative. The addition of cream cheese icing takes this cake to the next level, making it a standout dessert for any occasion.
Perfect for Celebrations
Key lime pound cake is an excellent choice for a variety of celebrations. Its vibrant flavor and elegant presentation make it a natural fit for:
Spring and summer gatherings
Easter brunches
Mother’s Day celebrations
Baby and bridal showers
Dinner parties
Birthday desserts
Because it can be made ahead of time and stores well, it is also a practical choice for busy hosts.
A Dessert That Impresses
Despite its simple preparation, key lime pound cake with key lime cream cheese icing delivers a level of sophistication that will impress your guests. The bright flavor, rich texture, and beautiful presentation make it suitable for both casual get-togethers and formal occasions. Whether you serve it as the centerpiece of a dessert table or as a sweet ending to a meal, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Final Thoughts
Key lime pound cake with key lime cream cheese icing is a delightful dessert that combines the best of traditional baking with a fresh, citrusy twist. The rich, buttery pound cake provides the perfect canvas for the bright flavor of key limes, while the cream cheese icing adds a creamy, tangy finish. Easy to make and always impressive, this cake is a wonderful addition to any baker’s repertoire. Whether you are baking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this key lime pound cake is sure to bring smiles to the table and become a favorite in your home.