Bright, zesty, and delightfully sweet, this lime cake is all about bold flavors and simple elegance. Perfect for spring and summer, it’s a refreshing treat that highlights the unique taste of fresh limes. Once you try this, you might find yourself craving that citrusy tang all year round!
Growing up, my grandmother would often surprise us with her signature lime cake during family gatherings. The scent of limes wafted through the kitchen, a beacon drawing us together. Her recipe has been passed down to me, and I’ve made a few tweaks to make it even more irresistible. Every time I bake it, I’m reminded of those joyful afternoons filled with laughter and love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lime Cake Recipe is a keeper for several reasons:
- Fresh, Bold Flavors: The tangy lime flavor is perfectly balanced with sweetness, making each bite refreshing and delicious.
- Simple Ingredients: It requires basic pantry staples that come together to create something extraordinary.
- Versatile: Ideal for a casual brunch or as a standout dessert at your next gathering.
- Moist Texture: Never worry about a dry crumb with this cake – it’s perfectly moist every time.
Ingredients Notes
Here’s a quick guide to sourcing and substituting the ingredients for this delightful lime cake:
- Limes: Opt for fresh limes to extract as much juice and zest as possible. Key limes offer even more aromatic zest.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but cake flour can be substituted if you’re aiming for a lighter texture.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar ensures the right level of sweetness, complement the lime’s acidity perfectly.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt content in the cake.
- Baking Powder: This is key for a nice rise, creating a soft and fluffy texture.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. This mix ensures even distribution of the leavening agent.
Step 3
Cream the butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 4
Stir in the lime zest and lime juice. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
Step 5
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool before removing from the pan.
Storage Options
Store leftover lime cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
For Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep an eye on the cake’s texture as it might vary slightly.
Add Coconut: Mix 1/2 a cup of shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist.
Lemon-Lime: Use half lemon juice and half lime juice for a tangy variation.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile and can be served on various occasions:
- Brunch Delight: Serve with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream for a satisfying brunch menu.
- Afternoon Tea: Pair with a hot cup of tea or iced coffee for an afternoon treat.
- Celebrations: Decorate with lime slices and edible flowers for festive occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be baked a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. Frost or glaze right before serving to keep it fresh.
Is there a substitute for lime if I can’t find fresh ones? If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, though the zest of fresh limes does add a unique depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate.
How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan? Greasing the pan thoroughly and lining it with parchment paper is key. Make sure to cool the cake slightly in the pan before turning it out onto a wire rack.
Lime Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 0.5 cup lime juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour and sugar. In another bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, then blend in lime juice.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
