Key Lime Bread: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Loaf
Key Lime Bread is a delightful dessert that brings the bright, refreshing flavors of key limes into a delicious, soft loaf. It’s perfect for tea-time, breakfast, or as a sweet treat anytime! This recipe captures the essence of the tropics, making it an ideal choice for both summer gatherings and cozy winter days.
Why make this recipe?
Making Key Lime Bread is an excellent choice for anyone looking to impress friends and family with a unique treat. The sweet, tart flavor of key lime pairs perfectly with the tender texture of the bread. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers! With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a slice of paradise right in your home. 🍞🍈
How to prepare Key Lime Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 teaspoon baking powder ⏳
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda ⚗️
- 1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1 cup granulated sugar 🍬
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1/4 cup key lime juice 🍋
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest 🍊
- 1/2 cup buttermilk 🥛
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. ✨
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. 🍽️
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. 🍯
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. 🥄
- Mix in the key lime juice and zest until combined. 🍈
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined. 🚀
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. 🥄
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. ⏰
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. ❄️
How to serve Key Lime Bread
Once cooled, slice the Key Lime Bread and serve on a beautiful platter. It can be enjoyed plain, or you can add a spread of cream cheese or butter for extra flavor. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of key lime zest for a beautiful presentation! 🍽️💚
How to store Key Lime Bread
To keep your Key Lime Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For even longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it before serving! 🧊
Tips for preparing Key Lime Bread
- Make sure your butter is soft, but not melted, for the best texture.
- Use freshly squeezed key lime juice for a brighter flavor.
- If you’re not a fan of key limes, regular limes can also be used, although the flavor will be slightly different. 🍋
Variations
If you want to mix things up, consider adding chocolate chips for a delicious contrast or nuts for added texture. You can also top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and key lime juice for an extra sweet finish! 🍫🌰
FAQs
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time?
A: Yes! Key Lime Bread can be made a day in advance, and it often tastes even better as the flavors meld.
Q: What can I substitute for buttermilk?
A: You can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle before using.
Q: How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
A: The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out wet with batter, give it additional baking time.
Now that you have this simple and delicious recipe, it’s time to enjoy a slice of Key Lime Bread! 🌴🍞