- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2½ cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh key lime juice
- ½ teaspoon key lime zest (optional, for garnish)
Preparation:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt or loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream.
- Stir in key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 70–80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar and key lime juice until smooth.
- Drizzle glaze over the cooled cake and top with zest, if using.
Serving and Storage Tips: Serve slices slightly chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries. Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
Variants:
- Coconut Key Lime Cake: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter for tropical flair.
- Mini Loaves: Bake in mini loaf pans and gift them with a drizzle of glaze.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Layer in sweetened cream cheese filling for a rich contrast.
FAQ:
- Can I use regular limes instead of key limes? Yes, though key limes have a slightly more floral and tart flavor.
- Can I use bottled key lime juice? Fresh is best, but bottled key lime juice can work in a pinch.
- Why is sour cream used? It keeps the cake incredibly moist and gives a slight tang that complements the citrus.
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