The Ultimate Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe

by

A Classic Southern Delight

Introduction**

The pound cake is a staple dessert across many cultures, especially beloved in the Southern United States. Its name derives from the original recipe, which used a pound each of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. Over the years, the recipe has evolved into a more balanced, flavorful dessert, often paired with icing, glazes, or fruit.

This version — beautifully dense, golden-brown, and generously frosted — is a showstopper dessert perfect for gatherings, Sunday dinners, or as a gift to someone special.

Ingredients**

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 3 sticks (1½ cups) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract (optional)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

For the Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (to adjust consistency)

Instructions & Method**

Cake Preparation:

  1. Preheat & Prep:
  • Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • Grease and flour a tube pan or bundt pan.
  1. Cream Butter & Sugar:
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy and pale.
  • Gradually add sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy (about 5–7 minutes).
  1. Add Eggs:
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  1. Mix Wet & Dry:
  • Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour.
  • Mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
  1. Bake:
  • Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Let cool in pan for 15 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack.

Frosting Preparation:

  1. Beat Cream Cheese & Butter:
  • Beat until smooth and well combined.
  1. Add Sugar & Flavor:
  • Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
  • Add cream as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
  1. Frost the Cake:
  • Once the cake is completely cool, spread frosting over the entire surface.

History of Pound Cake**

Originating in 18th-century Europe, the pound cake was a revolutionary recipe for its simplicity — equal parts of four ingredients, making it easy to remember. The recipe made its way to the United States, where it became a Southern tradition, often passed down through generations. Variations developed regionally, using sour cream, buttermilk, or cream cheese for moisture and richness.

Benefits of Pound Cake**

While pound cake is an indulgent treat, it offers a few surprising benefits when enjoyed in moderation:

  • Mood Booster: The sugar and fats can elevate mood and offer comfort.
  • Customizable Base: Works well with fruits, nuts, glazes, and sauces.
  • Great Shelf Life: Keeps well at room temperature or frozen.
  • Rich in Energy: Provides quick energy from carbohydrates and fats.

Formation and Structure**

A perfect pound cake has a tight, fine crumb and a golden crust. This is achieved by:

  • Properly creaming butter and sugar to incorporate air.
  • Alternating dry and wet ingredients to maintain structure.
  • Baking at a moderate temperature to prevent cracking and sinking.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Slice – Approximate)**

  • Calories: 450–500
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 250mg

Note: Values vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients.

Pound Cake Lovers**

This cake is adored by:

  • Southern grandmothers — who swear by their “secret ingredient.”
  • Holiday bakers — as a must-have for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
  • Home bakers — looking for a classic but rewarding challenge.
  • Dessert lovers — who enjoy dense, buttery richness with frosting.

Conclusion**

The Vanilla Pound Cake is more than a dessert — it’s a tradition. From its historic roots to the creamy frosting that finishes it, it offers nostalgia, flavor, and satisfaction. Whether you’re baking it for a loved one, a special occasion, or simply for yourself, this cake never fails to impress.

Final Thoughts & For the Lovers of Cake**

For the lovers of cake — those who believe a slice can heal a heavy heart or complete a celebration — this cake is for you. From first bite to last crumb, it offers warmth, sweetness, and love.

Bake it. Share it. Savor it. Because every pound of cake comes with a pound of joy.

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