Pound Cake

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Pound cake is a timeless dessert that showcases the simplicity of high-quality ingredients. Its dense, buttery texture and rich flavor make it a favorite for gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy evening treat. This recipe will guide you through creating a moist pound cake that’ll impress your family and friends, ensuring each slice is as delightful as the last.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 10 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 60 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of pound cake (1 slice, about 100g) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
7. Stir in the vanilla extract.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use margarine instead of butter, or opt for almond milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, for a sweeter taste, consider adding lemon zest or chocolate chips.

Serving and Pairings

Pound cake is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It also complements coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

Storage and Reheating

Store pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
• Overmixing the batter may lead to a dense cake.
• Skipping the creaming process can result in a heavy cake.
• Using cold eggs can hinder proper mixing; let them sit at room temperature.
• Not preheating the oven can result in uneven baking.

Helpful Tips

• Ensure butter is softened for better creaming.
• Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Let the cake cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
• Experiment with flavorings like almond extract or citrus zest.

FAQs

What makes pound cake different from other cakes?

Pound cake is unique due to its dense texture and rich flavor, traditionally made with equal weights of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. This simple ratio contributes to its signature taste.

Can I add flavors to my pound cake?

Absolutely! You can enhance your pound cake with vanilla, almond extract, citrus zest, or even chocolate chips to create different flavor profiles.

How can I tell when my pound cake is done?

Your pound cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the edges start to pull away from the pan.

Can I make pound cake ahead of time?

Yes, pound cake is great for making ahead. You can bake it a day or two in advance, and it will remain moist and flavorful.

How should I store leftover pound cake?

Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Conclusion

Pound cake is a classic dessert that combines simplicity with rich flavor, making it a favorite for many. With this recipe, you can create a moist and delicious cake that serves as a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy sharing it with friends and family or savoring it with your favorite beverage!

Pound Cake

Pound cake is a classic dessert known for its rich, buttery flavor and dense texture, perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: pound cake, dessert, baking, classic recipes

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 10 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
• In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
• Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 20g