The Classic Pound Cake Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that feels like a warm hug from your grandma’s kitchen. This buttery, tender cake delivers a perfectly balanced sweetness with a velvety crumb that melts in your mouth. With its few simple ingredients and straightforward technique, it’s the ultimate homemade treat that stands beautifully on its own or serves as the perfect canvas for all your favorite toppings and accompaniments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Classic Pound Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in creating its luxurious texture and rich flavor. From the creamy butter that adds moistness to the eggs that give the cake structure, every component is essential for achieving that iconic pound cake perfection.
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened: Using room temperature butter helps create a light, fluffy batter by trapping air during creaming.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with the cake’s tender crumb.
- 4 large eggs room temperature: Eggs add moisture, richness, and help bind the ingredients together for structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth that enhances the buttery flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure builder that gives the cake its sturdy yet soft texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and tenderness, keeping the cake moist without heaviness.
How to Make Classic Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking. Grease and flour a standard loaf pan; this small step ensures your cake releases easily once baked, preserving its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This process incorporates air that lends a delicate crumb and wonderful lift to the cake.
Step 3: Adding the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to make sure they incorporate fully. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which subtly boosts the cake’s comforting aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour with the salt to evenly distribute the salt and break up any clumps of flour. This step ensures your cake bakes evenly and has a consistent texture.
Step 5: Bringing It All Together
Alternately add the flour mixture and milk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix gently until just combined; overmixing at this stage can lead to a denser cake, so keep your movements light and intentional.
Step 6: Baking the Pound Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This slow baking process yields a tender cake with a golden, slightly crisp crust.
Step 7: Cooling and Unmolding
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes to firm up, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and keeps the crumb perfect for slicing.
How to Serve Classic Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Classic pound cake loves simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a generous dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries add a burst of color and a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the buttery cake.
Side Dishes
This cake shines alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a warm berry compote. For something lighter, a bowl of fresh fruit salad complements the richness and keeps the dessert feeling fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel adventurous by slicing the cake into cubes and creating a layered trifle with whipped cream, fruits, and jam. You can also toast slices lightly and spread them with lemon curd or mascarpone for a delightful brunch addition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain its moist texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
Classic Pound Cake Recipe leftovers freeze beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake in several layers of plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Warm slices in a microwave for about 15 seconds or toast them lightly for a few minutes to bring back that freshly baked softness and aroma.
FAQs
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is key to the cake’s flavor and texture in this Classic Pound Cake Recipe. Substituting it with margarine or oil will alter the taste and might change the crumb, so it’s best to stick with unsalted butter for authentic results.
Why is my pound cake dense?
Density often results from overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature, and mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
Can I add flavors like lemon or almond?
Absolutely! Adding lemon zest or a few drops of almond extract enhances the cake’s flavor without overpowering its classic profile, giving you a delightful twist on your favorite Classic Pound Cake Recipe.
What pan size should I use?
A standard loaf pan (about 9×5 inches) works perfectly for this recipe, allowing the cake to bake evenly and develop that characteristic golden crust.
How long will the cake stay fresh?
Stored properly at room temperature, this pound cake will stay fresh for three days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended without compromising its delicious taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting, buttery dessert that never goes out of style, this Classic Pound Cake Recipe is the one to try. It’s incredibly approachable, rewarding, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a go and soon you’ll see why it’s such a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere!
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Classic Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Classic Pound Cake is a buttery, moist, and tender dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, salt, and whole milk, this cake offers a rich flavor and a delicate crumb. Its straightforward preparation and baking method make it an easy yet impressive homemade treat that pairs wonderfully with fresh berries and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour a standard loaf pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step incorporates air that helps give the cake a tender texture.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the batter and build structure.
- Mix in Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract to add flavor depth to the cake.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to evenly distribute the salt within the flour.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Milk Alternately: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Mix just until combined after each addition to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, add lemon zest or a splash of almond extract to the batter.
- Pound cake pairs excellently with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
