Caramel Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a rich, buttery dessert that combines the dense texture of a classic pound cake with the creamy tang of cream cheese and the deep, luscious flavor of caramel. This cake is perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat with coffee or tea. The caramel drizzle enhances the sweetness while complementing the slight tanginess of the cream cheese, creating a beautifully balanced dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Pound Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sugar, beating on high speed for about 7 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly incorporate cake flour and salt in two batches.
- Stir in vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt sugar, stirring occasionally until it turns a deep amber color.
- Reduce heat to low and whisk in butter until fully melted.
- Slowly add heavy cream, stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble—keep stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in sea salt if making salted caramel.
- Let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the warm caramel sauce generously over the top.
- Slice and serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a decadent treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Velvety Texture: The cream cheese adds richness and moisture.
- Deep Caramel Flavor: Homemade caramel sauce elevates the cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for celebrations or casual indulgence, this cake is a showstopper.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a great baking project.
Would you like variations, such as adding pecans or a different glaze? 😊