Name: Amaretto Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1-1/4 cups cups Butter (softened); 1 package Cream cheese (softened); 2-1/2 cups cups Sugar; 3 Tbsp Amaretto; 1/2 tsp Almond extract; 1 tsp Vanilla extract; 2-1/2 cups cups All-purpose flour; 6 large Eggs; 1/3 cup cup Sliced almonds; 3/4 cup cups Sugar; 6 Tbsp Butter; 1/4 cup cup Amaretto; 2 Tbsp Water; 1-1/4 cups cups Powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp Almond extract; 1 to 2 Tbsp Milk

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Amaretto Pound Cake fresh from the oven. I remember the first time I made this cake; it was a rainy day, and the cozy scent of butter and sugar wafted through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the subtle notes of almond made it hard to resist slicing into it while it was still warm. This cake has become a staple in my home, perfect for everything from casual afternoon tea to festive gatherings. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and I always find myself returning to this recipe time and again.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 25 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
70 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
460 kcal

Protein:
7 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Bundt pan

Why This Amaretto Pound Cake Hits Different

It’s Incredibly Moist

The first thing you’ll notice about this Amaretto Pound Cake is its delightful moisture. The combination of butter, cream cheese, and eggs ensures a rich texture that melts in your mouth. This cake is perfect for anyone who craves something soft and tender.

Rich Flavors

This cake isn’t just another dessert; it possesses a deep, rich flavor profile thanks to the blend of amaretto and almond extract. These flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a cake that’s both sophisticated and comforting.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Amaretto Pound Cake fits the bill. It’s versatile enough to be dressed up with a drizzle of glaze or served plain with a cup of tea.

Easy to Make

If you’re not an experienced baker, fear not! This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up this delicious cake with confidence.

Perfect for Sharing

There’s something special about sharing a homemade cake with loved ones. The Amaretto Pound Cake is perfect for slicing and serving at gatherings, making it a fantastic way to show you care.

Satisfying Sweetness

This cake strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The addition of sliced almonds on top not only enhances its flavor but also adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a wonderful experience.

What You Need for Amaretto Pound Cake

Creating the perfect Amaretto Pound Cake requires a selection of quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting that rich, buttery flavor and delightful texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1-1/4 cups butter, softened: The base of your cake, providing moisture and richness.
1 (3-oz.) package cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
2-1/2 cups sugar: Sweetness is key for any pound cake.
3 Tbsp amaretto: Infuses a delicious almond flavor.
1/2 tsp almond extract: Enhances the almond flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extract: A classic flavor that rounds out the sweetness.
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of your cake.
6 large eggs: Provides moisture and helps bind everything together.
1/3 cup sliced almonds: For topping and a crunchy texture.
3/4 cup sugar: Additional sweetness for the glaze.
6 Tbsp butter: Used in the glaze.
1/4 cup amaretto: For the glaze, adds a lovely shine and flavor.
2 Tbsp water: Helps in making the glaze.
1-1/4 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze, adds sweetness and texture.
1/2 tsp almond extract: To tie the glaze flavor back to the cake.
1 to 2 Tbsp milk: Adjusts the consistency of the glaze.

Cooking Instructions for Amaretto Pound Cake

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together in a deliciously moist Amaretto Pound Cake. Follow these steps carefully, and soon you’ll be enjoying your masterpiece!

Preheat your oven to 325ºF. This temperature is perfect for ensuring the cake bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking once it’s baked. I like to use a spray that includes flour, giving me an even better release.
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer until creamy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes, and the mixture should be light and fluffy.
Gradually add sugar, beating at medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, leading to a lighter cake.
Now add amaretto, almond extract, and vanilla, beating just until blended. The mixture should be smooth and well-combined.
Slowly add flour to the butter mixture, beating at low speed just until blended after each addition. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender crumb.
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing just until blended after each addition. This helps the eggs incorporate fully into the batter.
Once everything is mixed, pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top if necessary.
Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until a long wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll notice a lovely golden brown around the edges when it’s ready.
During the last 10 minutes of baking, prepare the Amaretto Syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, amaretto, butter, and water. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and gradually spoon the hot Amaretto Glaze over the cake in the pan. I like to poke holes with a wooden skewer to help the syrup seep in and maximize flavor.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is essential to ensure the cake doesn’t break apart when you turn it out.
Once cooled, turn the cake onto a cake plate. For the final touch, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract to create a smooth glaze and pour it over the cooled cake.
Sprinkle with sliced almonds for a beautiful presentation and extra crunch. Now, slice and enjoy your delightful Amaretto Pound Cake!

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best blending. This helps to create a nice airy batter, leading to a lighter cake.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Checking for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If it has batter on it, give it a few more minutes.
Cooling Time: Let your cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it maintain its shape.

Recipe Notes about Amaretto Pound Cake

Before you whip up your Amaretto Pound Cake, here are some helpful tips to ensure your baking session goes smoothly:

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Temperature: It’s best served at room temperature; this enhances its flavor and texture.
Variations: Try adding zest from lemons or oranges for a citrus twist!

Serve This Amaretto Pound Cake With

When it comes to serving your Amaretto Pound Cake, there are plenty of delightful options to enhance your experience:

Fresh Berries: Serve alongside a handful of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.
Coffee or Tea: Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat.
Special Occasions: This cake is a perfect centerpiece for your dessert table at birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings.
Festive Glaze: Consider adding a festive touch with a sprinkle of edible glitter or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for special occasions.

FAQ

The delicious Amaretto Pound Cake can be served with fresh berries, a scoop of ice cream, or a warm drink like coffee or tea. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed as a dessert for special occasions or even a cozy afternoon snack. Pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate it even more!

Absolutely! The Amaretto Pound Cake freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few hours. You’ll find that it tastes just as fresh as when you first baked it!

To ensure your Amaretto Pound Cake remains moist, there are a few tips to follow. First, make sure you’re using quality ingredients, particularly fresh butter and eggs. Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour, as this can lead to a dense cake. Lastly, baking it at the right temperature and for the correct time is essential—too long in the oven can dry it out.

While cream cheese contributes to the cake’s moistness and flavor, you can replace it with sour cream or Greek yogurt if needed. However, keep in mind that this may alter the final flavor and texture slightly. The cake might not be as rich, but it will still be delicious. Just ensure you maintain the same volume of wet ingredients when making substitutions.

Conclusion

The Amaretto Pound Cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So why not give this recipe a try? You won’t regret indulging in a slice—or two—of this scrumptious cake!