Key Lime Bundt Cake with Glaze 🍋🎂
This Key Lime Bundt Cake is the kind of dessert that turns heads at the table—and then disappears slice by slice. With its ultra-moist crumb, tangy key lime flavor, and a drizzle of sweet-tart glaze, it’s a sunshiney spin on traditional pound cake that’s perfect for spring, summer, or any day you need a citrusy pick-me-up.
Made with real key lime juice and zest, this Bundt cake delivers the unmistakable brightness that bottled juice just can’t match. It’s simple enough for everyday baking but elegant enough to serve at your next gathering.
Why I Love This Recipe
This cake hits that perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing. The key lime juice and zest bring zing, while sour cream and buttermilk keep the crumb soft and rich. And that glaze? It’s sweet, citrusy, and just the right amount of drippy.
It’s a fantastic way to use up fresh key limes and makes a lovely alternative to traditional lemon desserts. Plus, you don’t need any fancy tools—just a Bundt pan and a zester.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice
- Zest of 3–4 key limes
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
For the Glaze:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh key lime juice
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, to thin)
Substitutions & Tips
- No key limes? Use regular limes, but reduce the juice slightly as they’re more acidic.
- Sour cream swap: Greek yogurt works well if you’re out of sour cream.
- Extra citrus flavor: Add a dash of lime extract to the batter or glaze.
- Make it fancy: Garnish with lime zest curls or edible flowers for a showstopper finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10–12 cup Bundt pan thoroughly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed for 3–4 minutes, until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the bowl as needed.
5. Add the Flavor Boosters
Mix in sour cream, fresh key lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract until combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry. Mix on low until just incorporated—do not overmix.
7. Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Smooth the top and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and key lime juice. Add milk a teaspoon at a time until the glaze reaches a pourable consistency.
Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it drip down the sides. Garnish with extra zest, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the cooling process or the glaze will melt right off.
- Zest before juicing—it’s nearly impossible to zest a squeezed lime!
- Use fresh juice for best flavor; bottled juice will taste flat.
- Storage tip: This cake gets even more flavorful the next day!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with Blueberry Lemonade for a bright, citrus-themed dessert table.
- Set out a sweet spread with Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites or Brownie Batter Dip for variety.
- Craving more chilled desserts? Try This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie.
Storage & Leftovers
- Room temp: Store covered on the counter for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keep up to 5 days for optimal freshness—just bring to room temp before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap unfrosted slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins – soft, spiced, and perfect for cozy baking
- This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – creamy and cool with serious crunch
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – for when you just need a quick sweet fix
- Blueberry Lemonade – the ultimate citrus pairing
Final Thoughts
This Key Lime Bundt Cake with Glaze is what citrus dreams are made of—moist, tangy, sweet, and beautiful enough to steal the show at any event. It’s proof that fresh ingredients and a little zest go a long way in baking.
Have you made it? Share your citrusy spin in the comments and tag us with your beautiful bundt! And don’t forget to follow ChefManiac.com for more bakes that brighten your day. 🍈💛
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