Key Lime Bread Recipe

Introduction

This Key Lime Bread is a bright and zesty treat perfect for any time of year. Moist and flavorful, it combines the tangy charm of key limes with a sweet, tender crumb. A simple glaze finishes it off for the perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• 1 tbsp key lime juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp key lime juice (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs, key lime zest, key lime juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: Add the flour, salt, and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Pour in the buttermilk and stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan or divide it among mini loaf pans or a muffin tin if preferred.
6. Step 6: Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Step 7: While the bread bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar and key lime juice in a small bowl to make the glaze.
8. Step 8: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack or tray.
9. Step 9: Pour the glaze over the warm bread and allow it to set before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra lime kick, add a teaspoon of key lime zest to the glaze.
• Substitute regular lime juice if you can’t find key limes; the flavor will be slightly different but just as delicious.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of buttermilk for a thicker texture and subtle tang.
• Add a handful of chopped pistachios or white chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store the Key Lime Bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices gently in a microwave or enjoy cold with the glaze intact.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular lime instead of key lime?

Yes, regular lime juice and zest can be used as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly less tart and aromatic, but still delicious.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy milk mixed with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk.

Key Lime Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 50 reviews

This bright and zesty Key Lime Bread combines the tangy freshness of key lime juice and zest with a moist, tender crumb. Finished with a sweet and tangy key lime glaze, this loaf is perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack that brings a taste of the tropics to your table.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread Ingredients

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp key lime zest
• 1 tbsp key lime juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Glaze Ingredients

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp key lime juice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a medium mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
3. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs, key lime zest, key lime juice, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing and to keep the bread tender.
6. Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. You can also use mini loaf pans or muffin tins if preferred.
7. Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Prepare glaze: While the bread is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and key lime juice in a small bowl until smooth to make the tangy glaze.
9. Cool and glaze: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack or tray. While the bread is still warm, drizzle the key lime glaze over the top so it soaks in and adds a delightful citrus finish.

Notes

• For best results, use fresh key limes if available, or substitute with regular limes but the flavor will be less distinct.
• The bread can be stored wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for a week.
• This bread freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
• Do not overmix the batter; mix until ingredients are just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Check the bread at 40 minutes baking time to prevent overbaking and dryness.

Keywords: Key lime bread, lime loaf, citrus bread, quick bread, lime glaze, dessert bread, homemade loaf