This Key Lime Pound Cake is a bright, tender, citrus-filled dessert with a dense crumb and a refreshing tangy glaze. It’s perfect for celebrations, afternoon coffee, or anytime you want a slice of sunshine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake delivers the perfect balance of buttery richness and vibrant key lime flavor. The batter comes together easily, bakes beautifully in a Bundt or loaf pan, and is finished with a luscious glaze that adds moisture and zing. It’s simple, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
¼ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled key lime juice)
1 tbsp key lime zest
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the key lime glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp key lime juice
1 tsp key lime zest

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a Bundt pan or loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk, mixing just until combined.
6. Stir in the key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 60–75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a cooling rack.
10. To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, key lime juice, and zest until thick and pourable.
11. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cake so it soaks in beautifully.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 12 slices
Prep time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60–75 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes in the pan

Variations

• Add a key lime cream cheese drizzle on top for extra richness.
• Fold mini white chocolate chips into the batter for pockets of sweetness.
• Use regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable.
• Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
• Substitute half the buttermilk with Greek yogurt for an extra tender crumb.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week; allow slices to come to room temperature before serving.
• To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.

FAQs

How strong is the key lime flavor in this cake?

It has a noticeable but balanced citrus flavor that complements the buttery pound cake without overpowering it.

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime?

Yes, you can substitute regular lime juice, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Do I need to use a Bundt pan?

No, you may use two loaf pans or a large tube pan.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Should the glaze go on warm or cooled cake?

Applying it to a warm cake helps it soak in for added moisture.

Can I add mix-ins to the batter?

Yes, mini white chocolate chips or shredded coconut work nicely.

How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean with no wet batter.

Can I make the cake without buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Does the cake freeze well?

Yes, it freezes very well and maintains its texture when thawed properly.

Can I double the glaze?

Absolutely. A thicker layer of glaze adds more sweetness and citrus flavor.

Conclusion

This Key Lime Pound Cake combines buttery richness with refreshing citrus for a dessert that’s both comforting and bright. Simple to prepare and impressive to serve, it’s ideal for gatherings or everyday indulgence. With its tender crumb and vibrant glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Print