Classic Southern Butter Pound Cake

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon almond extract or lemon zest for added flavor

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube pan.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture.
  6. Stir in vanilla extract (and almond extract or lemon zest, if using).
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 70–80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Serve plain or dusted with powdered sugar, or top with a glaze or fresh berries.

Let me know if you’d like a glaze recipe or a printable version!

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