Grandmother'S Lime Icing

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

A zesty lime icing with a buttery, sweet flavor, perfect for cakes and desserts, adding a fresh citrus kick that delights citrus lovers and bakers alike.

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Ingredients

  • juice of 1 large lime
  • 6 Tbsp. butter
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 1 egg white
  • 3 1/2 c. confectioners sugar

Instructions

  1. Cream together butter, salt, and vanilla.
  2. Add egg white, unbeaten, and sugar.
  3. Blend with lime juice and grated rind.
  4. Beat well until smooth and fluffy.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and fresh lime juice. If you want to reduce sweetness, start with 2 3/4 cups of confectioners sugar and adjust to taste. To make the icing lighter, you can fold in a bit of whipped cream after beating it. This lime icing pairs beautifully with Homemade White Cake, adding a zesty twist.

Serving Suggestions

This lime icing is perfect for topping cupcakes or cakes, especially with flavors like vanilla or coconut. It also works well as a dip for fresh fruit or as a filling for pastries. For a delightful treat, try serving it with Pecan Turtle Squares for a sweet and tangy combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover lime icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. If it has thickened, you can gently rewhip it to restore its fluffy texture. Avoid freezing, as it may change the consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandmother'S Lime Icing contains roughly 184 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).

184 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.1g
Total Fat 12.6g 16% DV
Carbs 4.3g 2% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 3.2g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1749.9mg 76% DV
Potassium 41.4mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 40.7mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.8mcg
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 6.6mg 1% DV
Iron 0.1mg
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different citrus juice for this icing?

Yes, you can substitute lime juice with lemon or orange juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and acidity levels may vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly. Lemon 'Coffee Bar' Cake would pair nicely with a lemon version of this icing.

How can I thicken the icing if it's too runny?

If your icing is too runny, gradually add more confectioners sugar until you reach the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once. You can also chill the icing in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help it thicken up before using.

Is it possible to make this icing vegan?

Yes, you can create a vegan version of this icing by substituting the egg white with aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas. Whip the aquafaba until it forms soft peaks, then fold it into the butter and sugar mixture. This ensures a light and fluffy texture without using animal products.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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