Key Lime Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer with its bright, zesty flavor. This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack. Its fluffy texture combined with a sweet lime glaze makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting brunch or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Refreshing Flavor: The tangy key lime zest and juice infuse the bread with a vibrant taste that brightens up any meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, toasted, or as an accompaniment to your favorite cup of tea or coffee.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration, this Key Lime Bread fits right in.
- Make Ahead Option: You can bake this bread in advance and store it for later enjoyment; just reheat before serving!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the key items you’ll need to create your Key Lime Bread.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Loaf pan (9×5)
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape and size for your Key Lime Bread to rise beautifully.
- Rubber spatula: Helps in folding ingredients gently and scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Ingredients
Key Lime Bread is a tangy citrus infused quick bread packed with flavor! Soft, fluffy pieces of bread with a lime glaze poured evenly on top! Perfect for any time of the day!
For the Bread
- 1/3 cup butter (unsalted, 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 flour (all-purpose)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Glaze
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp key lime juice
How to Make Key Lime Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a loaf pan measuring 9×5 inches to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
To the creamed mixture:
1. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in the key lime zest, key lime juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and buttermilk.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 5: Pour into Loaf Pan
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Step 6: Bake
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes or until you see golden brown edges and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While your bread is baking:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and key lime juice until smooth.
Step 8: Cool Before Glazing
Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 9: Add Glaze
While still warm:
1. Pour the glaze evenly over the top of your Key Lime Bread, allowing it to soak in slightly before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Key Lime Bread!
How to Serve Key Lime Bread
Key Lime Bread is a versatile treat that you can enjoy in many ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, there are numerous serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Breakfast Delight
- Pair with yogurt: Serve slices with a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Add fruit: Fresh berries or sliced bananas on the side complement the tangy flavor.
Afternoon Snack
- Enjoy with tea: A slice of Key Lime Bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea.
- Spread cream cheese: A light layer of cream cheese adds richness and balances the tartness.
Dessert Option
- Top with whipped cream: For a sweet finish, add whipped cream on top.
- Serve with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the bread’s texture.
Picnic Treat
- Pack slices for picnics: Its portability makes it an ideal snack for outdoor gatherings.
- Combine with nuts: A handful of mixed nuts can add crunch and protein to your picnic spread.
How to Perfect Key Lime Bread
To achieve the ultimate Key Lime Bread, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your baking skills.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh key limes yield the best flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your bread.
- Measure accurately: Precise measurements ensure consistent results in texture and flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
- Check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
- Cool before glazing: Allow the bread to cool slightly before adding glaze for better adherence.
Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Bread
Key Lime Bread can be paired with various sides to create a balanced meal or snack. Here are some great options:
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and sweetness that complements the tangy bread.Granola Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt and granola for a satisfying crunch alongside soft slices of Key Lime Bread.Chilled Green Salad
A simple green salad with light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet bread.Smoothie Bowl
Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for added texture.Herbed Cream Cheese Spread
A spread made with herbed cream cheese can elevate each bite, adding savory notes.Cheese Platter
Include mild cheeses like goat cheese or brie to balance the sweetness and provide richness.Vegetable Crudités
Fresh vegetables served with hummus offer crunch and nutrition, creating a well-rounded snack.Nut Mix
A handful of roasted nuts gives added protein and crunch, making it an excellent pairing choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Key Lime Bread is simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Using too much flour: Accurately measuring flour is key. Use the spoon and level method instead of scooping directly with the measuring cup.
- Not creaming butter and sugar well enough: This step adds air and makes the bread fluffy. Beat them together until light and fluffy for the best texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense rather than light and airy.
- Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds a delightful sweetness that complements the tangy lime flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your Key Lime Bread!
- Not checking for doneness: Every oven is different. Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean before removing it from the oven.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Key Lime Bread in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Key Lime Bread
- Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Key Lime Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Key Lime Bread.
How do I know when my Key Lime Bread is done?
Check with a toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
Can I use a different type of citrus?
Yes! You can substitute regular limes or lemons if you prefer a different flavor in your Key Lime Bread.
What can I do with leftover Key Lime Bread?
It makes a great snack or breakfast option. You can also toast slices and add butter or cream cheese!
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for novice bakers looking to try their hand at quick breads.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to enhance flavor and texture in your Key Lime Bread.
Final Thoughts
Key Lime Bread is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack. Customize it with nuts or dried fruits if you wish. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love its tangy flavor and soft texture!
Key Lime Bread
Indulge in the refreshing delight of Key Lime Bread, a quick and easy treat that brightens up any meal with its zesty flavor. This soft and fluffy bread is infused with tangy key lime zest and juice, topped with a sweet glaze that perfectly balances its citrusy notes. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or as a delightful snack, it’s versatile enough to serve at casual gatherings or festive celebrations. Plus, you can effortlessly prepare it in advance and enjoy it warm on busy days.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
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
- For the glaze: 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp key lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in key lime zest, juice, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and buttermilk. Gradually add to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with key lime juice until smooth.
- Allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Pour glaze over while still warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg