Key Lime Cream Cheese Pound Cake

This Key Lime Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a tropical twist on a classic. The tangy brightness of key lime juice and zest pairs beautifully with the rich cream cheese pound cake base, creating a moist, tender dessert that’s bursting with flavor. Topped with a sweet key lime glaze, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love Key Lime Cream Cheese Pound Cake

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a family dinner, or just because, this cake is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for brunches, parties, or as a sweet gift.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples with just a touch of citrus.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps and minimal prep time.
Customizable: Adjust the amount of lime for more or less tanginess.
Crowd-Pleasing: Moist, flavorful, and beautifully glazed it never fails to impress.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Key Lime Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Here’s the magic of this cake it’s zesty, buttery, and packed with citrusy flavor. Let’s break it down:
Butter: Creates a rich, moist base.
Cream Cheese: Adds tang and a soft, tender crumb.
Sugar: Sweetens and balances the tartness of the lime.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cake.
Baking Powder & Salt: For lift and balance.
Key Lime Juice and Zest: The star flavors of the cake.
Vanilla Extract: Complements the citrus beautifully.
Powdered Sugar & Lime Juice (for the glaze): Adds the perfect sweet-tart finish.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease and flour a bundt or tube pan.
Combine Ingredients: Beat butter, cream cheese, and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in key lime juice, zest, and vanilla.
Assemble the Dish: Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 75–85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Finishing Touches: Cool the cake for 15 minutes before removing from the pan. Mix powdered sugar and lime juice into a glaze and drizzle over the cooled cake.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice thick pieces and savor every citrusy bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 slices
Calories per serving: 400

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

How to Serve Key Lime Cream Cheese Pound Cake

This cake is fantastic on its own but also pairs beautifully with fresh berries or whipped cream. Serve it at brunches, afternoon tea, or as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use fresh key limes for the best flavor bottled juice won’t taste as bright.
Don’t overmix the batter to ensure a tender crumb.
Allow the cake to cool fully before glazing to avoid melting the icing.
For extra flavor, poke small holes in the cake before adding the glaze.
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
   Yes, just use the same amount of juice and zest.
2. Can I make it in loaf pans?
   Yes, divide the batter between two loaf pans and reduce the baking time.
3. Can I add coconut?
   Absolutely, ½ cup of shredded coconut adds a tropical twist.
4. Can I make it ahead?
   Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
5. Can I freeze it?
   Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
6. Can I skip the glaze?
   You can, but the glaze enhances the lime flavor beautifully.
7. Can I use bottled lime juice?
   Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
8. Can I use light cream cheese?
   Yes, but the cake may be slightly less rich.
9. Can I add nuts to the batter?
   Yes, chopped pecans or almonds work well.
10. How do I know it’s done?
    A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

CONCLUSION

This Key Lime Cream Cheese Pound Cake is zesty, moist, and perfect for any occasion. With its tangy lime flavor and tender texture, it’s a refreshing twist on a classic pound cake that will quickly become a favorite.

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