Perfect Pound Cake Recipe: Simple, Moist, and Delicious
Looking for a simple yet incredibly delicious cake? Look no further than this perfect pound cake recipe. With its rich buttery flavor and soft, dense texture, this cake is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with toppings like fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel, this cake is sure to impress. And the best part? It’s easy to make with just a few pantry ingredients!
Ingredients for Pound Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream (optional for extra richness)
How to Make Pound Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal of the cake later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Set it aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure the butter and sugar are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture.
- If you’re using sour cream, add it with the milk for extra moisture and richness. Mix gently until the batter is just combined.
Step 6: Bake the Pound Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the pound cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a cooling rack to finish cooling.
- Slice the cake once it has cooled completely and enjoy!
Why This Pound Cake Is Perfect
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a few basic ingredients to create this rich, flavorful cake.
- Perfect Texture: This cake has a dense yet moist texture, which is the hallmark of a great pound cake.
- Versatile and Easy to Customize: Enjoy it plain, or top it with fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce for a more indulgent treat.
Tips for Baking the Best Pound Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure to use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk. This helps the batter come together smoothly and ensures an even texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense texture. Overmixing can cause the cake to turn out tough.
- Check for Doneness: Test the cake with a toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done. If it’s still wet, let it bake for a few more minutes.
How to Store Pound Cake
- Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
- Store any leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
- For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I add flavor variations to this pound cake?
Yes! You can easily customize this recipe by adding lemon zest, almond extract, or even a bit of cocoa powder to the batter. You can also fold in chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture.
2. My cake turned out too dense. What happened?
Overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients can result in a dense cake. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and mix gently to avoid overworking the batter.
3. Can I make mini pound cakes?
Absolutely! You can make mini pound cakes by using smaller loaf pans or bundt pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly (usually 25-35 minutes for mini pans).
Why You’ll Love This Pound Cake Recipe
This pound cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion—whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, sharing it with friends, or enjoying it on your own with a cup of tea or coffee. With its rich flavor and dense texture, it’s the ideal cake for anyone who loves a simple, no-fuss dessert.
Make this easy pound cake recipe today, and experience the joy of homemade baking with a rich, delicious cake. Perfect for all occasions, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite!