If you are looking for a soul-warming, indulgently moist dessert that carries the charm of the South in every bite, this Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with buttery richness and a subtle kiss of Southern Comfort whiskey, this cake is a heavenly combination of classic pound cake decadence and a playful adult twist. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a slice of comfort, this recipe promises a tender crumb and a flavor that lingers lovingly on your palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe is surprisingly straightforward. Each component plays a pivotal role, from the all-purpose flour that builds the sturdy yet tender structure to the sour cream that keeps it irresistibly moist. The Southern Comfort whiskey adds that signature warmth, balancing the sweet vanilla and almond notes perfectly.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect texture without weighing the cake down.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise just enough for a light crumb.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors to make each bite better than the last.
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened: The heart of any great pound cake, ensuring richness and moisture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake, working hand in hand with the butter for that classic flavor.
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature: Adds structure and tenderness, binding everything beautifully.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a warm, familiar aroma that complements the sweetness.
- 1 tsp almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty depth that elevates the cake.
- ½ cup Southern Comfort whiskey: Infuses the cake with character, flavor, and that unmistakable Southern flair.
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature: Keeps the crumb luscious and adds a hint of tangy richness.
How to Make Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 325°F (165°C), the perfect gentle temperature for a slow, even bake. Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan to ensure the cake releases with ease, revealing all those beautiful golden edges once it’s baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This simple step ensures even distribution and a well-risen cake with a fine crumb. Set the mixture aside and get ready for the real magic.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and practically glowing with promise—this will take about 4 to 5 minutes. This creaming process is crucial for that airy texture, so don’t rush it!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. These extracts bring a fragrant warmth that hints at home baking at its best.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream—beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined at each addition is key to avoid overworking the batter, keeping the cake tender and soft.
Step 6: Stir in Southern Comfort Whiskey
Gently fold in the Southern Comfort whiskey, allowing its smooth, sweet, and slightly spicy notes to meld into the batter. This step transforms a classic pound cake into something truly special and unmistakably Southern.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—when it comes out clean, you know the cake is perfectly baked.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before flipping it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch of Southern charm, consider drizzling a simple glaze made of powdered sugar mixed with a splash of Southern Comfort whiskey over the top. The glaze adds shimmer and an irresistible bite of flavor.
How to Serve Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh berries such as strawberries or blueberries add brightness and a burst of color to the Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe. A dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted pecans brings texture and visual appeal, turning each slice into a work of art.
Side Dishes
This pound cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a grown-up twist, serve it alongside a glass of chilled Southern Comfort or a cup of bold coffee to balance the sweetness with a hint of bitterness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this classic dessert into a Southern Comfort trifle by layering chunks of the pound cake with whipped cream, fresh fruits, and a little extra whiskey drizzle. Or, slice it thick and toast it lightly for a boozy French toast that will wow brunch guests and sweet tooths alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days at room temperature—a perfect treat to enjoy over several days.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled cake well in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Reheating
For a warm slice, gently reheat the cake by microwaving a piece for about 15-20 seconds or warming it in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked warmth and makes the flavors sing.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Southern Comfort whiskey with another liquor?
Absolutely! While Southern Comfort adds a distinctive fruity sweetness, you can use bourbon, whiskey, or even rum for a different flavor twist that still complements the pound cake wonderfully.
Is it necessary to use sour cream in this recipe?
Sour cream plays a big role in keeping the cake moist and tender, adding a slight tang that balances the sweetness. You could try Greek yogurt as a substitute, but the texture might differ slightly.
How long does this cake stay fresh?
This pound cake stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly at room temperature, wrapped or in an airtight container, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind texture might change slightly, but the flavors will still shine.
What’s the best way to remove the cake from the bundt pan without it breaking?
Make sure your pan is well-greased and floured before pouring the batter. After baking, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes, then gently loosen the edges with a thin knife before inverting it onto a wire rack.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of Southern baking traditions with a spirited twist. Its tender crumb, rich buttery flavor, and the warmth of whiskey make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again to share with friends and family who appreciate a cake with character and heart.
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Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Comfort Pound Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert that combines the classic buttery pound cake texture with a subtle hint of Southern Comfort whiskey. Perfect for special occasions or a delicious treat any day, this cake features vanilla and almond extracts alongside a creamy sour cream addition for extra moisture and tenderness.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- ½ cup Southern Comfort whiskey (or your preferred whiskey)
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes and is essential for incorporating air into the batter.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts to enhance the flavor of the cake.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three separate additions, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently each time, just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Add Southern Comfort: Gently fold in the Southern Comfort whiskey until it is evenly blended throughout the batter, imparting a subtle whisky flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased bundt pan, smoothing 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, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pound cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to firm up, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. For an added touch, drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with Southern Comfort whiskey over the cooled cake before serving.
Notes
- Make sure all ingredients, especially eggs, butter, and sour cream, are at room temperature for best results.
- Use a bundt or tube pan to ensure even baking and proper rising.
- A toothpick test is important to check for doneness to avoid under or overbaking.
- For an alcoholic glaze, combine powdered sugar with Southern Comfort until reaching desired consistency.
- Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
