Key Lime Pound Cake with Key Lime Cream Cheese Icing

 

Introduction

If you love bright, citrusy desserts, this Key Lime Pound  Cake is a must-try. Buttery, soft, and bursting with fresh lime flavor, this cake is perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy. Topped with a rich and creamy key lime cream cheese icing, it’s a refreshing treat that feels both indulgent and light—perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you want a vibrant dessert.

Ingredients

For the Key Lime Pound Cake

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  
  

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup sour cream

• Zest of 2 key limes

• ¼ cup key lime juice

  
  

For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Icing

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons key lime juice

  
  

• Zest of 1 key lime

  
  

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or Bundt pan.

2. Mix dry ingredients:
   In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cream butter and sugar:
   In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light, fluffy, and pale.

   
   

4. Add eggs and vanilla:
   Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

   
   

5. Combine wet ingredients:
   Mix in sour cream, key lime zest, and lime juice until smooth.

6. Combine batter:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.

7. Bake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
   Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool:
   Let the cake cool completely before adding the icing.

9. Prepare the icing:
   Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
   Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in lime juice, zest, and a pinch of salt.

10. Frost and serve:
    Spread or drizzle the icing over the cooled cake and let it set slightly before slicing.

    
    

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh key lime juice and zest for the best flavor.

• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake soft and tender.

  
  

  
  

• Let the cake cool completely before icing to avoid melting.

• Store in the fridge for a firmer, richer texture.

Conclusion

This Key Lime Pound Cake with  Cream Cheese Icing is the perfect combination of rich,  buttery texture and refreshing citrus flavor. It’s simple enough for everyday baking yet impressive enough for special occasions. One bite and you’ll love the balance of sweet and tangy—give it a try and brighten your day!