Pound Cake
Indulge in the classic charm of pound cake, a dessert that has stood the test of time. With its dense texture and rich flavor, pound cake is perfect for any occasion, whether served plain, with fruit, or dressed up with icing. This recipe promises a cake that is moist and buttery, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Let’s dive into the details and get baking!
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 salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the baking time is around 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g fat, 40g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries, if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative for a lighter version. Additionally, yogurt can replace milk for added moisture and tang.
Serving and Pairings
Pound cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch.
Storage and Reheating
Store pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately affects texture.
- Skipping the creaming step can result in a heavy cake.
- Opening the oven door too early can cause the cake to collapse.
- Not allowing the cake to cool properly can affect its structure.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; it helps the cake set properly.
- Experiment with flavors by adding lemon zest or almond extract.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
FAQs
What makes pound cake different from other cakes?
Pound cake is traditionally made with equal weights of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, giving it a dense and rich texture. Unlike lighter cakes, it doesn’t use leavening agents like baking soda or baking powder in the original recipe.
Can I add flavors to my pound cake?
Yes! You can enhance the flavor by adding vanilla, lemon, almond extract, or even cocoa powder for a chocolate version. Just be cautious with the quantity to maintain the cake’s structure.
How can I tell when my pound cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cake should also spring back when gently pressed in the center.
Can I make pound cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pound cake can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it’s stored properly to maintain its moisture.
What’s the best way to serve pound cake?
Pound cake is versatile; it can be served plain, topped with fresh fruit, or accompanied by whipped cream. It also pairs well with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Conclusion
Pound cake is a timeless dessert that offers a delightful balance of simplicity and flavor. Its rich, buttery texture makes it a versatile treat for any occasion. With this recipe, you can create a delicious pound cake that is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Pound Cake
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 salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries, if desired.