Introduction
This delightful bundt cake brings a burst of fresh lime flavor to the table, making it perfect for any occasion. With a rich and creamy texture enhanced by the zing of lime, this cake is sure to please family and friends alike. The addition of a simple glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that complements the cake beautifully.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
6 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup fresh lime juice
Zest of 2 limes
For the Glaze:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 cup powdered sugar
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
85-90 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 45 minutes
Yield
One 12-cup Bundt cake
To create this luscious lime bundt cake, begin by preheating your oven to 325ºF and greasing a 12-cup Bundt pan with flour. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt before setting it aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Next, add in the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, lime juice, and lime zest. Mix everything together until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in two batches, ensuring a smooth batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top, and bake in the preheated oven for 85-90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Carefully run a butter knife around the edges to loosen the cake before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. For the glaze, combine melted butter, lime juice, and powdered sugar in a bowl, stirring until you achieve a smooth consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and allow it to set before serving. Enjoy the zesty and rich flavors of this delightful dessert!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 325ºF. Grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan to ensure easy release of the cake after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy in texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add to the butter-sugar mixture 1 cup of sour cream, 6 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ¼ cup of fresh lime juice, and the zest of 2 limes. Mix all these ingredients until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two batches. Mix thoroughly after each addition until the batter is completely smooth without lumps.
Step 6: Fill the Pan
Pour the prepared batter into the greased Bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even finish.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 85-90 minutes. Check that the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set before attempting to remove it.
Step 9: Release the Cake
Run a butter knife around the edges of the Bundt pan to loosen the cake. Carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to allow the cake to cool completely.
Step 10: Make the Glaze
Once the cake is cool, prepare the glaze by mixing together 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, and 1 cup of powdered sugar in a bowl. Stir until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 11: Glaze the Cake
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to coat the surface generously.
Step 12: Final Setting
Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving the cake to enjoy the flavors.
Notes
Note 1: Baking Time
Baking times may vary depending on the oven; keep an eye on the cake and adjust as necessary.
Note 2: Bundt Pan Preparation
Ensure the Bundt pan is properly greased and floured to prevent sticking, particularly in the intricate designs.
Note 3: Ingredient Temperature
For best results, ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting to mix.
Note 4: Lime Flavor
For a more intense lime flavor, consider adding extra lime zest or using a bit more lime juice in the glaze.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Properly cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy to incorporate air, which helps the cake rise.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
When adding dry ingredients to the wet mixture, do it gradually and in two batches. This helps maintain a smooth batter and prevents overmixing.
Baking
Bake the cake at a consistent temperature and check for doneness using a toothpick. It should come out clean when inserted in the center.
Cooling
Let the cake cool in the pan for a short period before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the cake while making it easier to remove from the pan.
Glazing
Prepare the glaze only after the cake has completely cooled. Drizzle it on top of the cake to enhance flavor without melting.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, but you may experiment with alternatives like cake flour for a lighter cake.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk, which will provide similar moisture and tang.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be baked ahead of time and stored at room temperature for a few days or frozen for longer shelf life.
What can I use instead of lime juice?
You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a different flavor profile, though it will change the overall taste slightly.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Conclusion
This delicious lime Bundt cake offers a perfect combination of tangy and sweet flavors, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. The moist texture, enhanced by sour cream, pairs beautifully with the bright citrus notes from fresh lime juice and zest. Topped with a simple lime glaze, this cake is sure to delight your guests and family alike. Enjoy every slice of this delightful treat!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Bundt Cake
Replace lime juice and zest with lemon juice and zest for a refreshing twist on this classic recipe.
Coconut Lime Cake
Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flavor and a lovely texture.
Blueberry Lime Muffins
Incorporate fresh blueberries into the batter for a fruity addition, creating a delicious breakfast or snack option.
Chocolate Lime Swirl Cake
Swirl in a chocolate batter before baking for a decadent chocolate and lime flavor combination.
Key Lime Pie Cupcakes
Use the same lime flavoring to create a cupcake version of key lime pie, topped with whipped cream frosting.
