Pound Cake Recipe

Pound Cake is a rich, buttery dessert made with just four simple ingredients: butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Traditionally, the recipe calls for equal amounts of each, creating a dense yet moist cake. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, it can be customized with flavorings like vanilla or citrus zest, and served with various toppings such as fresh fruit or a glaze. Perfect for any occasion, Pound Cake is a timeless treat that is both comforting and delicious.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 10

Total Time 1 25

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, European

Servings 8 People

Calories 3382 kcal

Equipment

Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
Mixing Bowls:
Measuring Cups and Spoons:
Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer:
Rubber Spatula
Loaf Pan or Bundt Pan
Wire Rack
Toothpick or Cake Tester –

Ingredients

1 cup Butter (2 sticks), softened
1 cup Granulated Sugar
4 large Eggs, at room temperature
1½ cups All-Purpose Flour
1 tsp Baking Powder (optional, if you want a lighter texture)
¼ tsp Salt
¼ cup Milk or Cream (optional, for a richer texture)
1 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional, for flavor)
1 tbsp Citrus Zest (optional) (lemon or orange zest for added flavor)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or a 10-inch bundt pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Mix
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix until smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk or cream. Mix until just combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Notes

Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth, well-incorporated batter and prevents the cake from becoming dense or uneven.
Accurate Measurements
Measure ingredients carefully, especially flour. Too much flour can make the cake dry, while too little can affect the structure. For best results, use a kitchen scale for flour measurements.
Mixing the Batter
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture due to the development of gluten. Mix until just combined.
Pan Size and Type
The size of the pan can impact baking time. If using a different pan size, adjust the baking time accordingly. A 9x5-inch loaf pan or a 10-inch bundt pan is ideal for this recipe.
Baking Time Variations
Every oven is different, so start checking the cake around 55 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning while the inside cooks.
Cooling the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking.
Customizing the Flavor
Feel free to experiment with flavors such as citrus zest (lemon, orange) or extracts like almond or vanilla. These additions can elevate the flavor and make the cake uniquely yours.
Storage
Pound Cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
Toppings
While delicious on its own, Pound Cake can be enhanced with various toppings, such as whipped cream, fresh berries, or a simple glaze, to suit your preferences.

By following these notes, you can ensure that your Pound Cake turns out perfectly every time!

Keyword Pound Cake Recipe