Indulge in the timeless delight of a Homemade Pound Cake with this easy and delicious recipe. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in, this classic dessert will leave your taste buds craving more.
Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes Cook Time: 60-70 minutes Total Time: 75-85 minutes Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan for a flawless release of your pound cake.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, blend the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a perfect base for your cake.
Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth, rich batter.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This step is crucial for an evenly risen cake.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients for a well-combined batter.
Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well mixed, infusing your pound cake with a delightful aroma.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Allow your homemade pound cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Enjoyment: This Pound Cake is delightful on its own, offering a rich, buttery flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Add a Topping: Elevate your cake with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Pair with Beverages: Complement your cake with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of dessert wine for a complete gourmet experience.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature Storage:
- Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Avoid direct sunlight and keep it away from heat sources to maintain its texture and flavor.
- Refrigerating Your Cake:
- If you prefer, the cake can be refrigerated. Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This method extends its freshness for about a week.
- Remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Freezing for Longevity:
- The pound cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to preserve its taste and prevent freezer burn.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
Reviving Your Pound Cake:
- If your cake has dried out a bit, try toasting a slice lightly and serve it with butter or jam for a delightful snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Homemade Pound Cake
Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly:
- Precision is Key: Baking is a science, and the accuracy of your measurements can make or break your pound cake. Always use proper measuring cups and spoons, and consider using a kitchen scale for even more precision.
Using Ingredients at Wrong Temperatures:
- Room Temperature Matters: Ingredients like butter and eggs should be at room temperature to blend more smoothly. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense or unevenly baked cake.
Overmixing the Batter:
- Gentle is the Way: Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air, affecting the cake’s texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a perfect crumb.
Not Preparing the Pan Properly:
- Avert the Stick: Grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly to ensure your cake releases cleanly. Neglecting this step might result in a cake that sticks to the pan.
Opening the Oven Door Too Often:
- Patience Pays Off: Resist the urge to frequently open the oven door. Temperature fluctuations can cause the cake to fall or bake unevenly.
Underbaking or Overbaking the Cake:
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, while underbaking can result in a doughy center.
Not Allowing the Cake to Cool Properly:
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for the recommended time before transferring it to a wire rack. Rushing this process can cause the cake to break apart.
FAQs
1. Can I Substitute All-Purpose Flour with a Gluten-Free Alternative?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal measure. Keep in mind that the texture and taste might vary slightly. To ensure the best results, look for a gluten-free blend that’s designed for baking.
2. How Can I Tell if My Pound Cake is Fully Baked?
The best way to check if your pound cake is done is to insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Also, the cake should have a golden-brown color, and it should start pulling away from the sides of the pan.
3. Can I Add Other Flavors to This Pound Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily customize this recipe by adding lemon zest, almond extract, or even a mix of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Experimenting with different add-ins like nuts or dried fruits can also add a unique twist to your pound cake.
4. Why Did My Pound Cake Turn Out Dense?
There are a few reasons why a pound cake might turn out dense. Overmixing the batter, not creaming the butter and sugar sufficiently, or using ingredients that are too cold can affect the cake’s texture. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and mix just until they are combined for a lighter, fluffier cake.
📖 Recipe
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Homemade Pound Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 75-85 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the timeless classic of homemade pound cake with this foolproof recipe. Made with simple, quality ingredients, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Its rich, buttery flavor and soft, dense texture make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Ideal for both novice and experienced bakers!
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time.
- Mix dry ingredients. Alternate adding dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture.
- Stir in vanilla extract. Pour batter into bundt pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes. Cool before serving.
Notes
Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Can add lemon zest or nuts for variation.
Store properly for longevity.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
