Ingredients
- Butter: 1 cup (softened)
- Granulated Sugar: 2 cups
- Eggs: 4 large
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 3/4 cups
- Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Milk: 1 cup
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan or loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the cake’s tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve as is, or with toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of glaze.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Variations
- Lemon Pound Cake: Add lemon zest and juice to the batter for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Marble Pound Cake: Swirl melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Glazed Pound Cake: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake for added sweetness.
Why You’ll Love Pound Cake
Pound cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with various toppings. Its buttery flavor and moist texture make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, pound cake is always a delightful choice.
For more inspiration, you can explore recipes here and here. Let me know if you’d like additional tips or variations! 😊