Simple Vanilla Pound Cake
Highlighted under: Home Baked Bliss
I love making Simple Vanilla Pound Cake on lazy weekends when I crave something sweet yet uncomplicated. This cake is a warm, comforting treat, and its rich vanilla flavor fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma. With just a handful of ingredients that I usually have on hand, I can whip up this delicious cake without much effort. It's perfect for pairing with coffee or enjoying on its own. Plus, it's a great base for modifications, should I decide to add fruits or nuts for an extra twist.
When I first tried crafting my own vanilla pound cake, I was captivated by how simple the process was yet how impressive the outcome turned out to be. The key is to cream the butter and sugar together until they're light and fluffy; this step aerates the batter and yields a tender cake. I also love incorporating fresh vanilla bean seeds for an added burst of flavor.
Over the years, I've experimented with baking times and techniques, and I've found that letting the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure. Each slice offers a moist, buttery bite that’s irresistibly delicious. Whether enjoyed plain or with toppings, this cake never fails to satisfy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delightfully moist texture that melts in your mouth
- Rich vanilla flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings
- Versatile recipe perfect for any occasion or celebration
Perfecting Your Pound Cake
Achieving the ideal texture in your pound cake starts with the creaming method. When you cream together the softened butter and sugar, it’s important to beat the mixture until it’s light and airy, which can take about 3 to 5 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a moist and tender crumb. If you rush this step, your cake may turn out dense instead of fluffy.
Another essential tip is to use room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter. When these ingredients are at room temperature, they emulsify better, resulting in a smoother batter that promotes even baking. To hurry the process, you can warm the eggs in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes before using them, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the other components.
Ingredient Insights
The choice of vanilla extract is crucial for the overall flavor of your pound cake. Using pure vanilla extract rather than imitation will yield a more aromatic and rich taste. Additionally, feel free to experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, to give your pound cake a unique twist. Just be cautious with the quantity; a teaspoon may suffice if you’re pairing it with vanilla.
If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute honey or maple syrup, but be aware this will alter the cake's moisture content. To counteract the liquid, decrease the milk slightly and bake the cake for a longer time. Additionally, incorporating Greek yogurt in place of some of the milk can enhance the cake's moisture while adding a slight tang that complements the sweetness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Simple Vanilla Pound Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, and start mixing until just combined.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding lemon zest or using almond extract in place of some of the vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
This Simple Vanilla Pound Cake is incredibly versatile in how you serve it. For an elegant touch, consider dusting the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. You can also serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the dense cake.
If you want to elevate your pound cake even further, try layering it with lemon curd or a rich chocolate ganache. These toppings not only add moisture but also introduce exciting flavor combinations that can impress your guests. Pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a delightful dessert experience.
Storage Tips
To keep your pound cake fresh, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps retain moisture while preventing it from picking up any odors from the fridge. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you plan on keeping the cake longer, freezing it is an excellent option.
When freezing, slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, you can thaw only what you need. To thaw, simply move the slices to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Reheating in a microwave for a few seconds can also help restore its warmth and texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but you might want to reduce the added salt slightly to avoid making the cake too salty.
→ How do I store the pound cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
→ Can I freeze the pound cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I add to this pound cake for variety?
You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of jam for a fun twist.
Simple Vanilla Pound Cake
I love making Simple Vanilla Pound Cake on lazy weekends when I crave something sweet yet uncomplicated. This cake is a warm, comforting treat, and its rich vanilla flavor fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma. With just a handful of ingredients that I usually have on hand, I can whip up this delicious cake without much effort. It's perfect for pairing with coffee or enjoying on its own. Plus, it's a great base for modifications, should I decide to add fruits or nuts for an extra twist.
Created by: Veronica Miles
Recipe Type: Home Baked Bliss
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 slices
What You'll Need
Simple Vanilla Pound Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, and start mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding lemon zest or using almond extract in place of some of the vanilla.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g