Key Lime Bread: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Bake Today

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Key Lime Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of citrus in every slice. This soft, moist loaf is bursting with zesty lime flavor, making it an ideal choice for brunches or afternoon snacks. The tangy lime glaze on top adds a perfect finishing touch, elevating the bread to a sweet and sour masterpiece. With no yeast required, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, allowing you to indulge in a slice of sunny goodness anytime. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Bread

This Key Lime Bread is a culinary gem that brings a burst of flavor to your table. Here are a few reasons to love it:

It’s incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the key lime juice and zest.
Perfect for summer gatherings or holiday celebrations, it’s a true crowd-pleaser.
This quick bread requires no special equipment, making it easy to prepare.
It’s versatile enough to be served as a dessert or a breakfast item.
With a tangy lime glaze, it adds a gourmet touch without extra effort.
It’s a fantastic way to use fresh key limes, enhancing your baking repertoire.

Whether you’re looking for a Key Lime Loaf or a Florida Key Lime Bread, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!

Ingredients for Key Lime Bread

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup vegetable oil
1 egg
⅓ cup buttermilk
¼ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
1 tablespoon key lime zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1–2 tablespoons key lime juice (for glaze)
Optional: extra lime zest for garnish

How to Make Key Lime Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk sugar, oil, egg, buttermilk, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 4: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Whisk powdered sugar with lime juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bread and garnish with extra zest.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Key Lime Bread

Keep these in mind:

This bread is great for brunch or as a snack.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For a richer flavor, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for Key Lime Bread with Nuts.

Best Ways to Serve Key Lime Bread

Here are a few serving ideas:

Pair a slice of Key Lime Cake with a dollop of whipped cream for a grand dessert.
Serve it with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing breakfast.
Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

How to Store and Reheat Key Lime Bread

To keep your Key Lime Quick Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it in the oven for a few minutes before serving, maintaining its moistness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Key Lime Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Key Lime Bread?

The secret lies in using fresh key lime juice and zest. This ensures a vibrant flavor that makes your Moist Key Lime Bread Recipe stand out.

Can I make Key Lime Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready for a fresh loaf!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Key Lime Bread?

Make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can make your bread dense instead of light and fluffy. Follow the steps closely for the best results.

Variations of Key Lime Bread You Can Try

Here are a few delicious variations:

Try adding a cream cheese swirl for a Key Lime Bread with Cream Cheese twist.
Incorporate coconut for a tropical touch, creating a Zesty Key Lime Bread Recipe.
Mix in poppy seeds for an interesting texture and flavor contrast.
Switch to gluten-free flour for a Homemade Key Lime Bread that everyone can enjoy!