Easy Vanilla Pound Cake
Highlighted under: Dessert Recipe Collection
This Easy Vanilla Pound Cake is a delightful treat that pairs well with coffee or tea. Its moist texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
This Easy Vanilla Pound Cake recipe has been a family favorite for generations. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, anyone can bake this delicious cake that is perfect for any gathering.
Why You'll Love This Vanilla Pound Cake
- Irresistibly moist and fluffy texture
- Rich, aromatic vanilla flavor that captivates the senses
- Versatile base for various toppings or pairings
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Easy Vanilla Pound Cake is an excellent choice for any gathering, whether it's a casual coffee brunch or a formal dinner party. Its classic flavor and appealing texture make it a universally loved dessert. You can serve it as is, or dress it up with a simple glaze, fresh fruits, or whipped cream to impress your guests.
One of the best features of this pound cake is its versatility. You can slice it for a delightful afternoon snack or pair it with ice cream for a wonderful dessert. The options are endless, making it a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
A Simple Baking Process
Baking this Easy Vanilla Pound Cake is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can master. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a cake that’s rich in flavor and pleasing to the palate. The key lies in properly creaming the butter and sugar, which helps to incorporate air and create that light, fluffy texture everyone loves.
Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. This will help maintain the cake’s tenderness. With just an hour in the oven, the delightful aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious treat.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
To keep your Vanilla Pound Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to a week, and its flavors will continue to develop over time. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
When serving, you can enhance the cake's flavor with various toppings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can elevate the experience. For fruit lovers, fresh berries or a fruit compote can add a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
Ingredients
Pound Cake Ingredients
- 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
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large 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.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake 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 to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your Easy Vanilla Pound Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate glaze.
Variations to Try
While the classic vanilla flavor is a crowd-pleaser, you can easily customize this pound cake to suit your taste preferences. For a chocolate twist, simply replace a cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder. You could also add citrus zest for a refreshing lemon or orange flavor, which pairs beautifully with vanilla.
Another fun variation is to incorporate nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch, while semi-sweet chocolate chips can create pockets of gooey goodness throughout the cake.
Pairing Beverages
When it comes to beverage pairings, this Easy Vanilla Pound Cake goes beautifully with coffee or tea. A rich cup of coffee can enhance the vanilla flavors, while a light herbal tea can provide a refreshing balance. For special occasions, consider serving it alongside dessert wines or sparkling beverages for an elegant touch.
If you're hosting a brunch, this cake makes a lovely addition to a mimosa or bellini. The sweetness of the cake complements the bubbly drinks, making for a delightful combination that your guests will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture or whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
→ How do I store leftover pound cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze the pound cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
→ What can I serve with pound cake?
Pound cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream.
Easy Vanilla Pound Cake
This Easy Vanilla Pound Cake is a delightful treat that pairs well with coffee or tea. Its moist texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Dessert Recipe Collection
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Pound Cake Ingredients
- 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) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a large 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.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake 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 to a wire rack to cool completely.
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