This Key Lime Pound Cake is rich, buttery, and perfectly balanced with a fresh citrus kick. The dense, velvety crumb of a classic pound cake meets the tangy brightness of key limes—finished with a sweet-tart glaze that soaks into every bite. It’s perfect for tea time, summer gatherings, or a standout dessert on your website.
🕒 Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 60–70 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20–30 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 10–12 slices
🧰 Equipment Needed
- 9×5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Zester or grater
- Cooling rack
🥣 Ingredients
🍰 Cake Batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ¾ cups sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍯 Key Lime Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons key lime juice
- ½ teaspoon lime zest (optional for extra zing)
🧂 Ingredient Notes
- Key Limes: Smaller and more aromatic than regular limes—use fresh juice for best flavor
- Butter: Use real butter for that rich pound cake texture
- Sour Cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender
- Zest: Adds intense citrus aroma without extra liquid
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 170°C (325°F). Grease and flour your pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). This step is key for a soft texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 5: Add Flavor
Mix in sour cream, key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
Step 6: Combine
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 7: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool
Let cake cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 9: Make Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar and key lime juice until smooth. Adjust thickness as needed.
Step 10: Glaze the Cake
Drizzle glaze over the slightly warm or fully cooled cake. Let it set before slicing.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Garnish with lime slices or zest curls
