Homemade Pound Cake Recipe
This Homemade Pound Cake is rich, buttery, and perfectly dense, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Made with simple ingredients, this recipe yields a cake with a golden crust and a soft, velvety interior that pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of glaze. It’s an easy, timeless cake that’s ideal for dessert, breakfast, or a mid-day snack.
Homemade Pound Cake
I love making this pound cake because it’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. The cake’s buttery flavor and tender texture make it a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with all sorts of toppings. You can serve it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or dressed up with fresh berries and whipped cream. This cake has been a favorite in my family for years, and it never fails to impress!
This pound cake pairs perfectly with Creamy Lemon Squares Recipe for a lemony twist or enjoy it alongside Classic Cherry Delight Recipe for a fruit-filled dessert combination.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Pound Cake Recipe
- Classic and Timeless: A simple, no-fuss recipe that’s been loved for generations.
- Rich and Buttery Flavor: Made with butter, sugar, and vanilla, it’s packed with a deliciously comforting taste.
- Versatile and Customizable: Enjoy it plain or with a variety of toppings, from fruit to chocolate.
- Perfect Texture: Dense and moist, with a crumb that’s tender but holds its shape.
Main Ingredients for Homemade Pound Cake
- Butter – Adds rich flavor and moisture to the cake.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
- Eggs – Provide structure and richness to the pound cake.
- Flour – Creates the dense, moist texture characteristic of a pound cake.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Pound Cake Recipe
Here’s how to make this classic and delicious pound cake step by step:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan and set aside.
- Tip: Greasing and flouring the pan helps the cake release easily once baked.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter and 2 cups of sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Beating the butter and sugar thoroughly is essential for a light, tender cake crumb.
- Add the Eggs: Add 4 large eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Tip: Room-temperature eggs mix more easily and help create a smooth batter.
- Add the Vanilla Extract: Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for flavor.
- Variation: Substitute with almond extract for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add the Flour and Salt: Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the batter, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Pour and Smooth the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Serving Idea: Sprinkle a bit of sugar on top for a slightly crunchy crust once baked.
- Bake the Pound Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Tip: If the cake browns too quickly on top, tent it with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the pound cake and serve it plain, with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
- Serving Idea: This pound cake pairs well with a berry compote or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add a Glaze: Drizzle with a simple lemon or vanilla glaze for extra flavor.
- Make it Chocolate: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder for a chocolate variation.
- How to Store: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- How to Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits of Homemade Pound Cake
While pound cake is an indulgent treat, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and reduce sugar if desired. Butter provides vitamin A and is a source of healthy fats, while eggs add protein and essential nutrients.
- Rich in Essential Nutrients: Eggs provide protein, and butter adds fat-soluble vitamins.
- Easily Customizable: Reducing sugar or adding fruit toppings can make this dessert slightly lighter.
- Perfect for Sharing: Pound cake is a great option for gatherings, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice
Homemade Pound Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F, grease and flour a loaf or bundt pan.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract.
- Add Flour and Salt: Mix in flour and salt until just combined.
- Bake: Bake for 60-70 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Cool before serving with optional toppings.
Notes
- This pound cake is delicious on its own or served with whipped cream and fresh berries.