Moist Tangy Key Lime pound cake is a delightful treat that captivates the senses with its vibrant citrus flavor. This recipe is not just about baking; it’s about creating a moist and tender cake that will leave everyone asking for more. With its perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this dessert is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy family dinner. Let’s dive into this zesty classic that promises to bring sunshine to your plate!
Why You’ll Love This Moist Tangy Key Lime
This moist key lime dessert offers a unique combination of flavors that is hard to resist. Here are a few reasons why this cake will become a staple in your dessert repertoire:
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just simple ingredients.
- The combination of fresh key lime juice and zest provides a refreshing burst of flavor.
- This cake stays moist for days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- It’s versatile and can be served plain or with a variety of toppings.
- Great for any occasion, it adds a tropical touch to your gatherings.
- Pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
With its key lime flavor profile, this cake embodies the essence of summer, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Plus, it caters to vegetarians, fitting into various dietary preferences.
Ingredients for Moist Tangy Key Lime
Gather these items:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These authentic key lime pie ingredients come together beautifully to create a cake that is rich in flavor and texture. Each component is essential for achieving that signature moistness.
How to Make Moist Tangy Key Lime Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and dust with flour.
- Step 3: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 4: In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 5: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
- Step 6: Mix in sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest.
- Step 7: Fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Step 8: Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Step 9: Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Step 10: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a moist key lime cake recipe that is sure to impress. Don’t rush the cooling process; it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Moist Tangy Key Lime
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor; bottled juice can be too harsh.
- Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the cake tender.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
These tips will help you master the art of baking the perfect Moist Tangy Key Lime pound cake. Baking is as much about technique as it is about ingredients.

Best Ways to Serve Moist Tangy Key Lime
Here are a few delicious serving ideas:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
- Pair with slices of fresh fruit to enhance the citrus experience.
- Top with a tangy glaze made of key lime juice and powdered sugar.
These key lime dessert ideas make this cake a versatile choice for any occasion, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste.
How to Store and Reheat Moist Tangy Key Lime
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds. This moist tangy key lime cake is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever you crave something sweet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moist Tangy Key Lime
What’s the secret to perfect Moist Tangy Key Lime?
The key to achieving the perfect key lime flavor profile lies in using fresh key limes and not overmixing the batter. This helps maintain the cake’s moisture and tenderness.
Can I make Moist Tangy Key Lime ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake keeps well, making it an excellent option for preparing ahead of time. Just ensure it is stored properly to maintain moisture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Moist Tangy Key Lime?
To avoid common pitfalls, make sure to measure ingredients accurately and follow the baking times closely. Using room temperature ingredients also helps in achieving the best results.
Variations of Moist Tangy Key Lime You Can Try
Explore these creative twists on the classic:
- Make a tangy key lime cheesecake for a creamy alternative.
- Try a key lime tart with a crunchy crust for a different texture.
- Experiment with adding coconut for a tropical flair.
Each of these variations can enhance your dessert table, ensuring that the Moist Tangy Key Lime remains a crowd favorite.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you’re looking for a savory option, Korean BBQ meatballs are a great choice!
Print
Moist Tangy Key Lime Pound Cake: A Zesty Delight
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and tender pound cake bursting with citrus flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and dust with flour.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
- Mix in sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest.
- Fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Moist Tangy Key Lime, Key Lime Pound Cake, Citrus Dessert









