Old-Fashioned Pound Cake
Introduction
There’s something timeless and heartwarming about an old-fashioned pound cake. This classic dessert, with its buttery richness and simple elegance, has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. The recipe is wonderfully straightforward, offering a soft and moist texture that pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or as a standalone treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply enjoying a dessert at home, this pound cake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
3 cups of granulated sugar
6 large eggs
3 cups of all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
1 cup of buttermilk
1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
Prep Time
The preparation for the old-fashioned pound cake is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced techniques. Begin by assembling your ingredients and preheating the oven to 325°F (165°C). Proper preparation ensures that the baking process goes smoothly and delivers the best results.
Steps to Follow:
1. Cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
3. Sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda in a separate bowl, then gradually incorporate into the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse your batter with a rich, aromatic flavor.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time
Bake the pound cake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes at 325°F. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the cake is fully baked; it should come out clean when inserted in the center of the cake.
Total Time
From preparation to baking and cooling, the total time is around 2 hours. This includes mixing the batter, baking the cake, and allowing it to cool properly before serving.
Yield
This recipe produces one large, golden-brown pound cake that serves 12 to 16 people. It’s a generous dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just enjoying a slice with your morning coffee.
This old-fashioned pound cake recipe is a timeless classic that brings back cherished memories of home-cooked traditions. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a beloved dessert that’s hard to resist. Give this recipe a try, and savor the comforting flavors of the South one slice at a time!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
– Preheat your oven to 325°F.
– Grease and lightly flour a bundt or tube pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter and Sugar Mixture
– In a large mixing bowl, add softened butter and granulated sugar.
– Using a hand or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step may take 3–5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
– Crack the eggs into a small bowl to ensure there are no shells.
– Add eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and salt.
– Mix gently to distribute the salt evenly throughout the flour.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients and Milk Alternately
– With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in small increments, alternating with milk.
– Begin with the flour mixture, then add milk, and continue, finishing with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Add Vanilla Extract
– Gently mix in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Pour Batter into the Prepared Pan
– Pour the batter evenly into the greased and floured pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface to ensure even baking.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
– Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
– Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
– Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack or serving plate to finish cooling completely.
Step 10: Serve
– Slice the cake and serve as desired. Enjoy your old-fashioned pound cake plain, or with toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit.
Notes
Note 1: Measuring Ingredients
– Ensure all ingredients, especially flour, are measured accurately for the best results. Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
Note 2: Softening Butter
– Allow butter to come to room temperature before using. This helps it cream more effectively with sugar, creating the desired fluffy texture.
Note 3: Don’t Overmix
– Avoid overmixing the batter, particularly after adding the flour. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
Note 4: Cooling the Cake
– Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for a short time will help it release more easily when inverted.
Note 5: Storage
– Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
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Cook Techniques
Preparing the Bundt Pan
Grease and flour the Bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. Make sure you reach all crevices of the pan to create a smooth release.
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure all dairy ingredients such as butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better blending and improved cake texture.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Mix the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, as this helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter pound cake.
Gradually Adding Flour and Milk
Alternate between adding small amounts of flour and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with flour, to keep the batter smooth and well-mixed.
Scraping the Bowl
Scrape down the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl periodically to ensure all ingredients are incorporated into the batter.
Baking the Cake
Place the Bundt pan in the center of a preheated oven for even baking. Avoid opening the oven door until the cake is nearly done to prevent collapsing.
Cooling and Removing from the Pan
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack for complete cooling.
FAQ
Why is room temperature important for cake ingredients?
Room temperature ingredients blend more evenly, creating a smoother batter and better texture in the cake.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
What should I do if my cake sticks to the pan?
Use a knife to gently loosen the edges, and tap the pan lightly on a counter to release the cake. Thoroughly greasing and flouring the pan beforehand helps avoid this issue.
Can I use a different type of pan for this recipe?
Yes, but the cooking time may vary depending on the pan shape. Adjust baking time and monitor closely for doneness.
How should I store the pound cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate if you want to retain freshness longer.
Can I freeze the pound cake?
Yes, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place it in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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Conclusion
A classic old-fashioned pound cake is a true comfort dessert, offering a rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb that never goes out of style. With its simplicity and versatility, this timeless treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this pound cake is sure to be a delightful addition to your table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vanilla Glaze Pound Cake
Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the top of the pound cake for an extra layer of sweetness and elegance.
Berry Topped Pound Cake
Slice the cake and pair it with a medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing twist.
Chocolate Drizzle Option
Enhance the pound cake with a warm chocolate drizzle for a rich, indulgent variation.
Whipped Cream and Nuts
Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed pecans or almonds for a satisfying crunch.
Lemon Pound Cake
Incorporate a hint of lemon zest and a lemon glaze to create a zesty variation on the classic recipe.
Ice Cream Pound Cake
Serve a slice alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor for a decadent dessert combination.
Caramel Sauce Option
Pair the pound cake with a drizzle of rich caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty treat.
