Pound Cake

There’s something truly magical about baking a classic pound cake. As soon as the aroma of butter and vanilla wafts through the kitchen, it feels like a warm hug from a dear friend. Growing up, my grandmother used to bake this pound cake every Sunday, its sweet scent drawing the entire family into the kitchen. It was our way of coming together, sharing stories, and enjoying each other’s company. Today, I’m thrilled to share this beloved recipe with you, hoping it brings the same warmth and joy to your home.

Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love This Pound Cake
• The Recipe
• Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
• The Benefits of Each Ingredient
• What to Serve With This Pound Cake
• Storage & Leftover Tips

Why You’ll Love This Pound Cake

• Rich, Buttery Flavor: The combination of butter and a hint of vanilla creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The butter provides a luscious richness that, when paired with the vanilla, evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Using high-quality butter can enhance this flavor even further, giving your cake a gourmet touch.
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and eggs, this pound cake comes out perfectly moist and tender every time. The sour cream not only adds moisture but also a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, while the eggs help in creating a smooth, cohesive batter. Consider using room temperature ingredients to help the batter blend more evenly, resulting in a more tender crumb.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most, if not all, of the ingredients already in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using foundational ingredients to create something truly special. This makes it a perfect go-to recipe when you want to bake something impressive without making a trip to the grocery store.
• Versatile and Customizable: While delicious on its own, you can easily dress it up with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Consider adding a glaze or incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist. You might even experiment with adding a handful of chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a festive holiday, or a simple weeknight treat, this pound cake is always a hit. Its classic appeal makes it suitable for any event, from casual to formal. You can also present it as a thoughtful homemade gift by wrapping it in parchment paper and tying it with a decorative ribbon.

The Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: Approximately 450 per slice

Ingredients:

• 3 sticks (1 1/2 cups) of butter, softened
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract (feel free to add an extra tablespoon or two!)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two loaf pans to prevent sticking. Using a generous amount of butter or a non-stick spray can also help ensure an easy release of the cake. For added flavor, you can dust the pan with a bit of granulated sugar after greasing it.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, shortening, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 5 minutes with an electric mixer. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, which contributes to the cake’s lightness. Make sure your butter is soft enough to press easily with your fingers, as this helps it blend smoothly with the sugar.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the cake’s structure. If you notice the mixture curdling, don’t worry—it will smooth out once the flour is added. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure even mixing.
4. Mix in Sour Cream and Vanilla: Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. The sour cream keeps the cake moist, while the vanilla enhances its flavor. For a more pronounced vanilla taste, consider using vanilla bean paste. If you have vanilla beans on hand, scraping the seeds into the batter can elevate the flavor even more.
5. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. Mixing by hand at this stage can help prevent overworking the batter. If you prefer, you can sift the flour beforehand to ensure there are no lumps and that it’s well aerated.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours. Start checking the cake after 1 1/2 hours. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently as it can cause the cake to fall. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve to your delighted family and friends. For a clean slice, use a serrated knife or a cake slicer. Allowing the cake to cool completely ensures the flavors develop fully and makes slicing easier.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Electric Mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugar to the right consistency. This can be a stand mixer or a handheld one, depending on what you have available. A stand mixer is particularly useful for hands-free operation.
• Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for combining ingredients. A set with different sizes can be very handy for this and other recipes. Stainless steel bowls are ideal as they are lightweight and easy to clean.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success. For precision, consider using a kitchen scale for the dry ingredients. This can help avoid common pitfalls like packing flour too tightly.
• Bundt or Loaf Pan: Gives the pound cake its classic shape. A non-stick pan will make for easier removal, but still ensure to grease and flour it well. Silicone pans can be a good alternative for easy release.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cake evenly. This helps prevent the bottom from becoming soggy as it cools. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can improvise with an inverted muffin tin.

PIN IT OR SAVE IT

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

• Butter: Provides richness and a tender crumb. Always use real butter for the best flavor. For a more intense flavor, you could try browning the butter before using it. This adds a nutty aroma that can enhance the cake’s complexity.
• Shortening: Helps create a moist texture and adds stability to the cake. It prevents the cake from becoming too greasy. Using a mix of butter and shortening balances flavor and texture perfectly.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps to create a tender texture. Granulated sugar is perfect for this recipe, but superfine sugar can be used for a slightly finer crumb. If you want a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of white and light brown sugar.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent and give the pound cake its structure. Room temperature eggs mix more easily into the batter and help it rise more effectively. If you forget to take your eggs out of the fridge, place them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes to bring them to room temperature quickly.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang, complementing the sweetness. You can substitute Greek yogurt in a pinch, but the texture may slightly differ. Full-fat sour cream works best, as it contributes to a richer taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure. Sift the flour first to prevent clumping and ensure an even mix. If you desire a lighter cake, substitute a portion of the flour with cake flour.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use imitation if necessary. Consider experimenting with other extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist.

What to Serve With This Pound Cake

This pound cake is a star on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate it further, here are some delightful pairings:

• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness. Try marinating the berries in a bit of sugar and lemon juice for added flavor. This not only enhances their natural sweetness but also creates a delicious syrup.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast. Consider flavoring it with a touch of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Homemade whipped cream is easy to make and can be adjusted to your preferred level of sweetness.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the rich flavors of the cake. For a more decadent option, try pairing with chocolate or coffee ice cream. Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra treat.
• Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote drizzled over the top is a lovely touch. Make a quick compote by simmering your choice of fruit with sugar and a bit of lemon juice. Add a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Amaretto, for a sophisticated finish.

For more delightful dessert ideas, check out our Chocolate Chip Cookies and Lemon Bars recipes!

Storage & Leftover Tips

To keep your pound cake fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it in a cool, dry place will extend its freshness. If you’ve made a glaze, ensure it’s fully set before storing to avoid sticking.
• Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor. Refrigeration can slightly dry out the cake, so consider wrapping it tightly. Place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy. This makes it easy to grab a slice whenever you crave a sweet treat. If you plan to freeze the entire cake, wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Baking is a joy, and sharing this pound cake with loved ones is one of my favorite ways to spread happiness. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family traditions, just as it has in mine. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!