Keto Key Lime Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

Introduction

Indulge your sweet tooth with this delightful Keto Key Lime Pound Cake topped with creamy icing. This low-carb version of the classic dessert captures the tangy and refreshing flavor of key lime while adhering to ketogenic principles. The combination of almond flour and cream cheese makes this pound cake rich and moist, while the icing adds an irresistible sweetness. Perfect for special occasions, gatherings, or simply as a satisfying treat, this recipe is both easy to prepare and utterly delicious. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ingredients, detailed instructions, nutritional information, and helpful tips to ensure your baking experience is a success.

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake:

  • 2 cups (240g) almond flour (finely ground)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated erythritol (or another low-carb sweetener)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened almond milk (or any low-carb milk alternative)
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh key lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest (freshly grated)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (30g) powdered erythritol (or your preferred low-carb sweetener)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (to adjust consistency)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lime (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pound cake bakes evenly and achieves the perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. Proper preparation of the pan is crucial for a smooth release.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated erythritol until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the almond milk, fresh key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract (if using), ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the pound cake.

Step 6: Pour Batter into the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Ensure the batter is evenly distributed to promote even baking.

Step 7: Bake the Pound Cake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the pound cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is essential to set the texture of the cake.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese icing. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered erythritol until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the almond milk, mixing until you achieve a spreadable consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding more almond milk if necessary.

Step 10: Ice the Pound Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese icing generously over the top. For an elegant touch, you can use a piping bag to create decorative swirls.

Step 11: Garnish (Optional)

For added flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle the top with lime zest. This not only enhances the presentation but also intensifies the lime flavor.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

Slice the pound cake into generous pieces and serve. This cake can be enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or even as a breakfast treat. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful experience.

Step 13: Store Leftovers

Any leftover pound cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Servings)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 3g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • Green: 5 SmartPoints
  • Blue: 4 SmartPoints
  • Purple: 4 SmartPoints

Helpful Tips

Choosing Almond Flour

For the best texture, opt for finely ground almond flour. Coarse almond flour can result in a gritty texture in baked goods. You can also find almond flour labeled specifically for baking, which is often more finely ground.

Fresh vs. Bottled Lime Juice

Using fresh key lime juice enhances the flavor significantly. If key limes are unavailable, regular limes can be substituted, although the flavor will be slightly different. Fresh lime zest is also essential for capturing that vibrant citrus aroma.

Sweetener Adjustments

Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness according to your taste preferences. Different brands of erythritol can vary in sweetness, so start with less and add more if needed. Remember that erythritol is generally less sweet than sugar, so a little goes a long way.

Serving Suggestions

This pound cake pairs wonderfully with a side of berries or a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream. You can also serve it with a refreshing cup of herbal tea for a lovely afternoon treat.

Experimenting with Flavors

While key lime is delightful, you can experiment with other flavors as well. Consider adding lemon zest and juice for a lemon pound cake variation, or incorporate a bit of almond extract for an almond-flavored twist.

Conclusion

Keto Key Lime Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is a luxurious dessert that satisfies your sweet cravings without the excess carbs. This recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of key lime and the rich creaminess of icing, making it a perfect addition to your low-carb repertoire.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this pound cake will impress both keto and non-keto eaters alike. Enjoy the delightful taste and share your experiences or any creative variations in the comments below. Happy baking!