Pound Cake

Pound Cake

There’s something truly magical about a freshly baked Pound Cake. It always takes me back to my childhood, where weekends meant the delightful aroma of cake wafting through the house. My mother would whip up this delicious treat, filling our home with warmth and the promise of sweet indulgence. The first slice was always the best—golden, moist, and perfect with a dusting of sugar. Each bite is a memory, a moment of joy that I love to share with family and friends. Now, I’m excited to pass on this cherished recipe for Pound Cake, which remains a staple at our gatherings and a symbol of comfort.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 20 mins
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
60 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
6 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
17 g
Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Pound Cake Is So Good

Tradition in Every Slice

Making Pound Cake is like embracing tradition. This recipe is rooted in history, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings. The word “pound” refers to the original proportions of the ingredients—one pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. This timeless method ensures a rich, buttery flavor that is hard to resist!

Versatile and Reliable

One of the things I love about Pound Cake is its versatility. Whether served plain or adorned with fruits and creams, it adapts beautifully to every occasion. You can enjoy it with your morning coffee, as a dessert after dinner, or even as a simple snack. It’s the kind of cake that fits in any moment.

Perfect for Sharing

Nothing brings people together like a homemade dessert. A slice of Pound Cake is perfect for sharing, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. It not only feeds the body but also warms the heart, creating connections and memories with every bite.

Simple Ingredients, Incredible Flavor

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create something extraordinary. The combination of eggs, buttermilk, and butter delivers a cake that is moist and dense, while granulated sugar adds just the right sweetness. It’s amazing how these basic pantry staples can transform into such a beloved dessert.

A Recipe to Treasure

This Pound Cake recipe has been passed down through generations, and with each baking session, it has its own unique story. It’s a piece of my family heritage, and I invite you to create your own stories with it. Each cake baked is not just a dessert; it’s a continuation of a tradition, flavored with love and care.

What’s In This Pound Cake

Pound Cake

The magic of Pound Cake lies in its simple yet effective ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. Key players like butter and eggs contribute richness, while granulated sugar sweetens and enhances the cake’s overall taste. The all-purpose flour provides structure, making every slice beautifully moist yet firm. Together, they create a harmonious balance that’s sure to impress.

  • 6 large eggs, at room temperature: Essential for binding and providing moisture, eggs also help give the cake its structure.
  • 1 cup buttermilk: This adds a tangy flavor and keeps the cake moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute with milk and vinegar.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite feel indulgent.
  • 2¾ cups all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off: This is the backbone of the cake, providing structure and texture.
  • 2¾ cups granulated sugar: The sweetness factor! It also contributes to the cake’s texture, helping to achieve that perfect moist crumb.
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cake rise, ensuring a light texture.
  • ¾ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the cake.
  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened: A key ingredient for richness and flavor, it gives the cake its signature moistness.
  • Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional): A light dusting adds a touch of elegance when serving, making your cake look even more inviting.

Preparation Steps for Pound Cake

Pound Cake

Preparing Pound Cake is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s get started! The first step is to gather your ingredients and preheat your oven, setting the stage for this delicious creation. Following each step carefully will ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and set an oven rack in the lower third of the oven. This ensures even baking, allowing the Pound Cake to rise beautifully.
  2. Spray a 12-cup Bundt pan with nonstick spray that includes flour, like Baker’s Joy or Pam with Flour. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring a clean release.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until evenly combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to your cake.
  4. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed until evenly combined, about 1 minute.
  5. Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and continue mixing on low speed for 2 minutes. This will create a crumbly texture, which is a good sign!
  6. Now, add one-third of the egg mixture and mix on low speed until incorporated. Gradually increase the speed to medium and mix for 2 minutes. This process helps to aerate the batter, giving your cake a light texture.
  7. Repeat this process with the remaining egg mixture in two more additions. After each addition, mix on low speed to incorporate before increasing to medium. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl as needed; the batter may look slightly curdled, but that’s perfectly okay.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Make sure to distribute it evenly for uniform baking.
  9. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the cake is golden-brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is the moment of truth!
  10. Once baked, cool the cake on a rack for 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar for a touch of sweetness. A serrated knife works best for slicing.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Ingredient Temperature Matters: Always use ingredients at room temperature, especially butter and eggs. This helps create a better emulsion, resulting in a smoother batter.
  • Don’t Overmix: Once you add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
  • Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a bit before inverting. This helps prevent it from breaking apart and ensures it holds its shape.
  • Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test to check if your cake is done. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Helpful Notes about Pound Cake

Pound Cake

Here are some helpful notes to ensure your Pound Cake turns out perfectly every time. These tips cover everything from storage to serving suggestions.

  • Storage: Store your leftover Pound Cake at room temperature, loosely covered with foil or in a cake dome, for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture.
  • Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To revive its texture, warm slices in a low oven for a few minutes.
  • Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add citrus zest, chocolate chips, or nuts for a unique twist on the classic Pound Cake.
  • Serving Suggestions: This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of confectioners’ sugar for elegance.

How to Serve Pound Cake

Serving Pound Cake is all about creativity and making it special. Here are some great ideas that will elevate your cake experience:

  • Breakfast Treat: Serve slices of Pound Cake with a side of fresh fruit and a dollop of yogurt for a delightful breakfast.
  • Afternoon Tea: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee. A slice of Pound Cake is the perfect companion for your afternoon break.
  • Festive Occasions: Make it a centerpiece at gatherings like birthdays or holidays. Adding seasonal decorations can enhance the presentation.
  • Make it a Sundae: Top it with a scoop of ice cream and warm chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert.
  • Storage Tips: Don’t forget to keep leftover cake covered to maintain freshness, especially in humid weather.
  • Seasonal Pairings: In winter, consider pairing with spiced fruits, while in summer, fresh berries are a perfect match.

FAQ

While all-purpose flour is recommended for classic Pound Cake, you can experiment with other types like cake flour for a lighter texture. Keep in mind that using different flours may affect the cake’s structure and flavor, so it’s best to find a balance that works for you. If you opt for whole wheat flour, for example, expect a denser cake. Always ensure the flour is properly measured for the best results.

If your Pound Cake turns out too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. This can lead to a tough texture as it develops gluten. To avoid this in the future, mix the batter just until combined after adding the wet ingredients. Another tip is to ensure your baking powder or baking soda is fresh, as this helps the cake rise properly.

To check if your Pound Cake is done, perform the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready! Additionally, the cake should be golden brown and begin to pull away from the edges of the pan. If it still appears wet or sticky, continue baking and check every few minutes.

Absolutely! Pound Cake is very versatile, and you can add a variety of flavors to customize it. Consider adding citrus zest for a refreshing twist, or fold in chocolate chips for a rich dessert. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg also work beautifully. Just be mindful of balancing these flavors so they complement rather than overpower the cake.

Conclusion

This Pound Cake is a slice of tradition with a blend of simplicity and flavor that makes it a beloved favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next gathering or just because! The joy of baking and sharing this cake is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Pound Cake

Pound Cake

The ultimate comfort food, this Pound Cake is perfectly moist and bursting with buttery flavor. With a simple ingredient list, it’s an easy weeknight dessert that everyone will love. Try it tonight for a taste of tradition!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 16 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Frying Pan
  • Whisk
  • Oven
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large Eggs at room temperature
  • 1 cup Buttermilk see note
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
  • 2.75 cups All-Purpose Flour spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off
  • 2.75 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 0.75 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 sticks Unsalted Butter softened
  • Confectioners’ Sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and set an oven rack in the lower third of the oven.
  • Spray a 12-cup Bundt pan with nonstick spray that includes flour, like Baker's Joy or Pam with Flour.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
  • In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed until evenly combined, about 1 minute.
  • Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and continue mixing on low speed for 2 minutes.
  • Now, add one-third of the egg mixture and mix on low speed until incorporated.
  • Gradually increase the speed to medium and mix for 2 minutes.
  • Repeat this process with the remaining egg mixture in two more additions.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the cake is golden-brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Once baked, cool the cake on a rack for 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a rack to cool completely.
  • Before serving, dust with confectioners' sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Notes

  • Tip 1: If you don’t have any buttermilk in the fridge, see my post on how to make buttermilk from milk and lemon juice.
  • Tip 2: Pound cake is best made on the day of serving but it can be stored at room temperature, loosely covered with foil or in a cake dome, for up to 3 days.
  • Tip 3: The cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • Tip 4: When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Tip 5: To revive the texture after storing or freezing, you can warm slices in a low oven.
Keyword Classic Pound Cake, Easy Pound Cake Recipe, Homemade Pound Cake, Pound Cake

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating