Pound cake is a classic dessert known for its rich, buttery flavor and dense yet tender texture. Despite its simplicity, achieving the perfect pound cake requires careful attention to ingredients, technique, and baking time. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or served with fresh berries and whipped cream, this timeless cake is always a crowd-pleaser.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about making the perfect pound cake, from ingredient selection and step-by-step instructions to pro tips, common mistakes, and variations. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to bake a flawless pound cake every time!
Why This Recipe Works
- Rich, Buttery Flavor – The high butter content ensures an indulgent taste.
- Moist Yet Dense Texture – The perfect balance between heaviness and softness.
- Simple Ingredients – Only eight staple ingredients needed.
- Versatile & Customizable – Can be flavored with citrus zest, almond extract, or other variations.
Ingredients
To make a classic pound cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120g) full-fat sour cream
Pro Tip: Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and even baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a stand mixer with a whisk attachment for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
2. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tip: If making a bundt cake, double the recipe and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
Lemon Pound Cake
- Add the zest of 2 lemons and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the batter.
Almond Pound Cake
- Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist.
Chocolate Pound Cake
- Replace 1/4 cup of flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
Gluten-Free Pound Cake
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend.
Pro Tips for Success
- Do not overmix the batter – This can make the cake tough and dry.
- Measure flour correctly – Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method.
- Use a wooden skewer for doneness – A toothpick may not reach the thickest part.
- Avoid high oven temperatures – A slow bake at 350°F ensures even cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Why is my pound cake dry?
- Overbaking or using too little butter and sour cream can cause dryness.
Why does my pound cake have a gummy streak?
- Over-creaming butter and sugar incorporates too much air, causing sinking.
Why is my cake too dense?
- Pound cakes are naturally dense, but too little baking powder or overmixing can make them heavy.
Storage & Freezing Tips
How to Store Pound Cake
- Keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
How to Freeze Pound Cake
- Wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- Freeze whole cakes or individual slices for up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What’s the secret to a moist pound cake?
Using full-fat sour cream and not overbaking keeps the cake moist.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute vegan butter and coconut yogurt for butter and sour cream.
How do I make a crisp crust?
Remove the cake from the pan after 10 minutes of cooling to prevent steaming.
Can I add fruit to my pound cake?
Yes! Fold in 1 cup of berries or chopped nuts before baking.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Pound cake is a timeless dessert that is simple yet deeply satisfying. With a few key techniques and high-quality ingredients, you can bake a perfect pound cake every time. Whether you enjoy it plain, with fresh fruit, or as a base for other desserts, this cake is sure to become a favorite.
If you tried this recipe, leave a comment below and share your experience! For more delicious cake recipes, check out our butter cake, chiffon cake, and orange cake recipes.
Happy Baking! 🍰