Introduction to Key Lime Pound Cake
If you're craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, then Key Lime Pound Cake is a must-try! This delightful cake captures the bright, zesty notes of fresh Key lime juice and the richness of a traditional pound cake, creating an indulgent treat that will leave your taste buds dancing.
What sets this cake apart is its texture—dense yet moist—achieved by the combination of butter and shortening blended to perfection. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself after a long week, this cake serves as an inviting centerpiece that can brighten up any occasion.
But why stop there? The frosting, made from powdered sugar and a splash of Key lime juice, adds that extra touch of tangy sweetness, elevating each slice into a slice of paradise. Not to mention, this recipe aligns with popular baking trends that emphasize fresh ingredients, making it a recent favorite among home bakers everywhere.
So, if you're ready to indulge in a dessert that combines the refreshing flavors of a tropical getaway with the comforting feel of a classic pound cake, keep reading for the full recipe!
For tips on working with citrus in your baking, consider checking out The Kitchn's guide on citrus fruits.
Ingredients for Key Lime Pound Cake
Essential ingredients for the cake
To create a delicious key lime pound cake, you'll want to have these essential ingredients on hand:
- Butter and shortening: Combining these gives the cake a rich, tender texture.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cake's moisture.
- Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and lending a fluffy structure.
- Flour, baking powder, and salt: These provide the foundational structure and balance of flavors.
- Milk, vanilla extract, lime zest, and fresh Key lime juice: These ingredients infuse the cake with that signature tart and tangy flavor.
Key components of the frosting
The frosting is just as important as the cake itself! Here’s what you’ll need to create a delightful contrast:
- Powdered sugar: For sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Fresh Key lime juice, water, melted butter, and vanilla extract: These ingredients provide a balance of tartness and sweetness, making the frosting a perfect complement to the cake.
By gathering these ingredients and following the simple steps in the recipe, you'll have a delightful key lime pound cake that will impress your friends at any gathering! For more tips on baking essentials, check out this guide for a deeper dive into the world of baking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Key Lime Pound Cake
Creating a delicious Key Lime Pound Cake is a delightful way to celebrate the vibrant flavors of fresh limes. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Let’s break down each step in an easy-to-follow manner.
Gather Your Ingredients
The first step in your baking adventure is to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the cake and frosting:
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For the cake:
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1 cup butter, at room temperature
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½ cup shortening
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3 cups sugar
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6 eggs, at room temperature
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3 cups flour
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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⅛ teaspoon salt
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1 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon lime zest
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¼ cup fresh Key lime juice
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For the frosting:
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
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1 ½ tablespoons fresh Key lime juice
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1 ½ tablespoons water
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2 teaspoons melted butter
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Having everything measured out makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!
Cream the Butter and Shortening
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, beat together the soft butter and shortening at medium speed. This ensures that your fats are well combined and creates a lovely base for your Key Lime Pound Cake. Aim for a creamy texture that’s light and fluffy.
Mix in the Sugar and Eggs
Once your butter and shortening are creamed, gradually add in the sugar. Continue to beat at medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process is crucial; it incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the cake's rise. Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. Remember, fresh, room-temperature eggs work best!
Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Mixing at low speed ensures everything is just combined, preventing overmixing, which can lead to a tough texture.
Add in Lime Zest and Juice
Stir in the vanilla extract, lime zest, and fresh Key lime juice. This is where the magic happens! The zesty lime adds a refreshing flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the cake.
Pour Batter into the Pan and Bake
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 10-inch solid tube pan. Bake in your preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, lime juice, water, melted butter, and vanilla until you achieve a smooth frosting consistency. This zesty frosting is the perfect finishing touch to your Key Lime Pound Cake.
Drizzle the Frosting on the Cooled Cake
Finally, scrape the frosting into a quart Ziploc bag, seal it, and snip off one corner. Now you’re ready to drizzle! Pour the frosting back and forth over the top of the cooled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for an appealing presentation.
And there you have it! A step-by-step guide to mastering a delightful Key Lime Pound Cake. The combination of zesty lime flavor with a moist, rich texture is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy baking, and don't forget to share your delicious results!
Variations on Key Lime Pound Cake
Coconut Key Lime Pound Cake
For a delightful twist on the classic key lime pound cake, consider incorporating coconut. Simply add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the batter for tropical flair. This variation harmonizes wonderfully with the zesty lime, creating a cake that’s not only moist but also bursting with flavor. Top with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a beautiful finish. Dive deeper into coconut recipes at The Coconut Collaborative.
Key Lime Pound Cake with Berries
Elevate your key lime pound cake by serving it with a medley of fresh berries. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the tangy lime flavor. Serve slices adorned with a scoop of whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing dessert experience. Discover berry recipe ideas at American Blueberry Council.
Baking Tips and Notes for Key Lime Pound Cake
Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for achieving a perfectly moist and tender key lime pound cake. When butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature, they incorporate more easily, leading to a smooth batter that traps air efficiently during mixing. This helps the cake rise beautifully and results in a lighter texture.
Freshness of Baking Powder
Always check the freshness of your baking powder before you start baking. Baking powder that’s past its prime can lead to a dense and underwhelming cake. If you’re unsure, do a quick test by mixing a teaspoon of baking powder with hot water; it should fizz vigorously. If it doesn’t, it's time for a fresh batch! For more on baking powder longevity, you can read this article.
These simple tips will set you up for success and make your key lime pound cake a delightful centerpiece for any gathering. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Key Lime Pound Cake
Pairing Ideas for Serving
If you're looking to elevate your Key Lime Pound Cake, consider pairing it with a side of fresh fruit. Slices of strawberries, kiwis, or mangoes can add a vibrant touch and contrast beautifully with the tangy cake. For an extra treat, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream; the creamy texture balances the zesty flavors perfectly. You can also drizzle some extra Key lime glaze on the plate for decoration and added flavor.
Presentation Tips
Great presentation can transform your Key Lime Pound Cake into a showstopper! Use a cake stand to elevate your creation and enhance its appeal. Adding colorful garnishes, like lime slices or mint leaves, creates a pop against the bright, sunny cake. If you're feeling crafty, a dusting of powdered sugar can give it a finished touch. For a delightful experience, serve each slice on a stylish plate and provide spoons to accommodate the ice cream!
For more ideas on dessert pairings, you can check out Taste of Home.
Time Breakdown for Key Lime Pound Cake
Preparation Time
Get ready to bring this delicious key lime pound cake to life! You'll need about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together. Don't rush—enjoy the process!
Baking Time
Once your cake is in the oven, it will need approximately 1 hour and 15 to 1 hour and 20 minutes to bake. Perfect time to clean up a bit or start planning your next cake adventure!
Cooling Time
After baking, let your cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. This will ensure a beautifully soft texture and make it easier to frost later.
By breaking down the time wisely, you can savor each moment of creating your key lime pound cake, making it not just a recipe, but an experience. For more tips, feel free to check out resources like Epicurious or Bon Appétit for baking insights!
Nutritional Facts for Key Lime Pound Cake
Calories
Each slice of this delightful key lime pound cake packs approximately 450 calories. While it's a treat best enjoyed in moderation, it's perfect for those special occasions when you need a bit of sweetness in your life.
Sugar Content
This cake contains about 55 grams of sugar per slice, primarily from the sugar added to the batter and the frosting. If you're looking to cut back on sugar without sacrificing flavor, consider reducing the frosting slightly or using a sugar alternative. Enjoy indulging in this zesty delight!
For more tips on healthier baking, you can check out the American Heart Association's guide on sugar.
FAQs about Key Lime Pound Cake
What substitutes can I use for butter?
If you're looking to lighten up your Key Lime Pound Cake, or simply run out of butter, there are several substitutes you can consider. Common options include:
- Coconut Oil: This lends a tropical flavor that complements the citrus notes.
- Margarine: A straightforward swap that maintains the cake's texture.
- Greek Yogurt or Applesauce: These options can reduce calories and add moisture as well, but may slightly alter the flavor.
Explore various substitutes to find the one that fits your taste!
How should I store leftover cake?
To keep your delicious Key Lime Pound Cake fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it. It can last for up to three months! Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making in advance. You can bake it a day or two ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to frost it close to serving time to maintain that gorgeous icing! If you're looking for more tips on cake preparation, check out this resource.
Conclusion on Key Lime Pound Cake
In summary, the Key Lime Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors. Its moist, buttery texture is sure to impress friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try and share your experiences! For more sweet treats, check out AllRecipes or Food Network for inspiration.
Key Lime Pound Cake
Equipment
- heavy-duty electric stand mixer
- 10-inch solid tube pan
- wire rack
- quart Ziploc bag
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup butter at room temperature
- 0.5 cup shortening
- 3 cups sugar
- 6 pcs eggs at room temperature
- 3 cups flour
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.125 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 0.25 cup fresh Key lime juice
Frosting
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh Key lime juice
- 1.5 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons melted butter
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°.
- Beat butter and shortening at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer until creamy.
- Gradually add sugar, beating at medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to butter mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat at low speed just until blended after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla, lime zest, and lime juice.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 10-inch solid tube pan.
- Bake at 325° for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, Key lime juice, water, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Scrape the frosting into a quart Ziploc bag, seal, and snip the tip off one corner. Drizzle back and forth over the top of the cake.
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