Introduction
This Lime Bundt Cake with Sweet Lime Glaze is soft, moist, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Made with real lime zest and juice, this elegant cake has a tender crumb and is topped with a silky lime glaze that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dessert, holidays, or afternoon tea, this refreshing cake is guaranteed to impress.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45–50 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | About 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Servings | 12 slices |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American Dessert |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is incredibly soft and moist thanks to butter and sour cream.
Fresh lime juice and zest create a bright, refreshing citrus flavor.
The sweet lime glaze adds a beautiful finish while keeping every slice moist.
It’s easy enough for everyday baking but elegant enough for celebrations and holidays.
Ingredients
🍰 Cake
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup (226 g) |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
| Large eggs | 4 |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Fresh lime juice | ¼ cup |
| Lime zest | 2 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
🍋 Lime Glaze
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Fresh lime juice | 3–4 tbsp |
| Lime zest | 1 tsp |
| Milk (if needed) | 1–2 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract, lime zest, lime juice, and sour cream.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and cool completely.
Whisk together the powdered sugar, lime juice, and zest until smooth. Add a little milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake.
Garnish with extra lime zest before serving.
Best Tips
Use fresh limes instead of bottled juice for the brightest flavor.
Bring the butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing.
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake soft and tender.
Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing.
Best Ingredient Options
Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Mix lemon and lime zest together for a citrus blend.
Use buttermilk in place of sour cream for a slightly lighter texture.
Recipe Variations
Add white chocolate chips to the batter.
Mix poppy seeds into the batter for extra texture.
Top with toasted coconut flakes after glazing.
Add a teaspoon of coconut extract for a tropical flavor.
What to Serve With
Fresh berries complement the citrus flavor beautifully.
Vanilla ice cream creates a delicious dessert.
Whipped cream adds extra richness.
A hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee makes the perfect pairing.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Bake the cake one day in advance and store it tightly covered. Add the glaze just before serving for the freshest presentation.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature. If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Freezing
Freeze the unglazed cake tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overbake the cake, as it may become dry.
Grease the Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Use fresh citrus juice and zest for the best flavor.
Allow the cake to cool before removing it from the pan to avoid breaking.
Nutrition Estimate
| Nutrient | Per Slice |
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 58 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Sugar | 39 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. Bake it a day ahead and glaze it before serving.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes. Freeze the unglazed cake for up to 3 months.
Can I use a loaf pan instead of a Bundt pan?
Yes. Divide the batter between two loaf pans and adjust the baking time to about 35–40 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Lime Bundt Cake with Sweet Lime Glaze is a refreshing, moist, and beautifully elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant citrus flavor, soft texture, and glossy glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite recipe for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.