Indulge in the delightful world of pound cake, a timeless dessert that combines simplicity and flavor in every slice. This cake is known for its rich texture and buttery taste, making it a beloved choice for gatherings, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can create a masterpiece that pairs beautifully with fresh fruits or a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 11g
– Carbohydrates: 43g
– Sugar: 30g
– Protein: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one slice of pound cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free alternative to make this cake suitable for different dietary needs. Additionally, replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.
Serving and Pairings
Pound cake is delightful on its own, but it can also be served with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to a dense cake.
- Overmixing the batter can result in a tough texture.
- Opening the oven door too soon can cause the cake to collapse.
- Not allowing the cake to cool before removing it from the pan may cause it to break.
- Using cold ingredients instead of room temperature can affect the batter’s consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Experiment with adding citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
- Let the cake cool completely before icing to prevent melting.
- Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.
FAQs
What makes pound cake different from other cakes?
Pound cake is denser and richer than most cakes due to its high butter and sugar ratio, traditionally made with equal parts of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour.
Can I use a different pan for pound cake?
Yes, you can use a loaf pan or any cake pan, but baking times may vary. Adjust accordingly and check for doneness with a toothpick.
How do I make my pound cake more flavorful?
Incorporate flavorings like almond extract, lemon zest, or even spices like nutmeg to enhance the cake’s taste.
Is pound cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Pound cake freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.
Can I add fruits to my pound cake batter?
Yes, you can add fruits like blueberries or chopped strawberries, but be sure to adjust baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Pound cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Its rich flavor and versatile nature make it perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Try this recipe today and savor the delightful taste of homemade pound cake!
Pound Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
