Old Fashioned Pound Cake
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake recipe is a delightful treat that evokes memories of family gatherings and special occasions. Its dense and buttery texture makes it an ideal dessert for any event, whether you’re hosting a birthday party, holiday celebration, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon at home. This classic cake serves as a wonderful base for toppings like fruit glazes or whipped cream, allowing you to customize it to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and sugar creates a deliciously rich flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with fresh fruit or frosting for added flair.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Old Fashioned Pound Cake, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Gather your baking essentials before starting.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Tube pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Tube Pan: The shape allows even baking and helps the cake rise properly.
- Electric Mixer: Saves time and ensures the butter and sugar are creamed together thoroughly.
Ingredients
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake recipe is one my mother made often throughout my childhood. Dense and buttery, this traditional pound cake is the perfect blank canvas for a fruit glaze or whipped topping.
For the Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
How to Make Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking throughout your cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease and flour a tube pan to prevent sticking. This will help your cake come out smoothly after baking.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture becomes light in color, resembling a pale yellow hue.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Add in the large eggs, one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated into the mixture before adding the next one.
Step 5: Add Flour Gradually
Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour into the batter, adding it in half-cup increments. Mix until just combined after each addition to keep the cake tender.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
Allow your pound cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before serving or decorating as desired.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or dressed up, this cake is sure to please any crowd.
With Fresh Fruit
- Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and serve them on top of the pound cake for a sweet and tart contrast.
- Blueberries: A handful of blueberries adds a pop of color and freshness to each bite.
- Peaches: Grilled or sliced peaches pair beautifully with the buttery flavor of the cake.
With Whipped Cream
- Lightly Sweetened Cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the richness of the pound cake and adds a delightful texture.
- Flavored Cream: Try adding vanilla extract or citrus zest to your whipped cream for an extra flavor boost.
With Fruit Glaze
- Berry Glaze: Drizzle a berry reduction over slices for a colorful presentation and burst of flavor.
- Lemon Glaze: A tangy lemon glaze complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
As French Toast
- Breakfast Treat: Transform leftover pound cake into French toast by dipping slices in an egg mixture and frying until golden brown.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
- Fruit Sorbet: For a lighter option, pair with fruit sorbet for a refreshing finish.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake
To achieve the best Old Fashioned Pound Cake, consider these useful tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This prevents packing and results in a lighter cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired lightness.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures; this helps avoid underbaking or overbaking.
- Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Pound Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Berries: A medley of berries provides a refreshing balance to the rich cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds color and natural sweetness that complements each slice.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a creamy, crunchy addition that pairs well with pound cake.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over slices for an indulgent treat.
- Caramel Sauce: Rich caramel adds depth and sweetness, enhancing every bite.
- Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage pairs nicely with pound cake, making it perfect for afternoon tea or coffee breaks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Old Fashioned Pound Cake can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can prevent proper mixing. Always use eggs at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Not creaming butter and sugar enough: This step is crucial for aeration. Aim for a light, fluffy texture before adding other ingredients.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix just until the flour is incorporated for the best texture.
- Skipping the greasing step: If you skip greasing and flouring the pan, your pound cake may stick. Always prepare your pan properly.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time can be misleading. Use a toothpick to check if your cake is done.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store in the fridge for up to one week.
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- Container: Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Freezing Old Fashioned Pound Cake
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- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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- Container: Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top bag.
Reheating Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Old Fashioned Pound Cake that might help clarify any doubts.
What makes an Old Fashioned Pound Cake different from other cakes?
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is denser and richer due to its higher butter and egg content compared to lighter cakes like sponge cakes.
Can I add flavors to my Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
Yes! You can add vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract for extra flavor.
How do I know when my Old Fashioned Pound Cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, usually after about 60 minutes of baking.
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is standard, you can experiment with cake flour for a lighter texture or whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s perfect on its own or dressed up with fruit glazes or toppings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors and enjoy this delightful treat!
Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the nostalgic taste of Old Fashioned Pound Cake, a timeless dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and cherished moments. This classic cake features a dense, buttery texture that perfectly complements various toppings, from fresh fruit to decadent whipped cream. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or simply a quiet afternoon treat, this recipe is your go-to for creating a delightful centerpiece for any occasion. With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll find baking this deliciously moist cake both rewarding and simple. Whether served plain or adorned with your favorite toppings, each slice offers a rich flavor experience that is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a tube pan to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next.
- Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
