This classic homemade pound cake is rich, buttery, and wonderfully dense with a tender crumb. It’s a versatile cake that pairs perfectly with fresh fruit, a scoop of ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as a dessert, this pound cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Slice and serve the pound cake plain, or with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of lemon glaze. Enjoy!