Moist Vanilla Pound
Moist Vanilla Pound is the ultimate cake for any occasion. This classic recipe offers a buttery texture and rich vanilla flavor that makes it perfect for gatherings, tea time, or a simple dessert at home. Its moist crumb and golden crust will impress guests and family alike, making it a staple in any baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few common ingredients, this moist vanilla pound cake is simple to whip up, making it great for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Flavor: The rich vanilla flavor pairs well with various toppings or can be enjoyed plain, catering to different tastes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, afternoon tea, or just a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
- Great Texture: The moistness of this pound cake ensures each slice is tender and delicious.
- Long-Lasting Freshness: Store it in an airtight container, and it stays fresh for days.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your baking goes smoothly, having the right tools ready is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf tin
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Sifter
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf tin: This specific shape allows the cake to bake evenly and develop its signature texture.
- Electric mixer: A reliable mixer helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency when combining butter and sugar.
- Sifter: Sifting flour ensures there are no lumps, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
Ingredients
Best Pound Cake recipe, buttery, flavorful, moist cake | Simple & Easy recipe to give you a perfect soft, rich, delicious traditional vanilla pound cake.
Dry Ingredients
- 225 g or 1 3/4 cups Plain / All purpose flour (sieved)
- 2 Teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 Teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 175 g or 3/4 cup softened butter
- 150 g or 3/4 cups regular sugar
- 2/3 Cup or 150 ml Milk
- 2 Large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 & 1/2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract
How to Make Moist Vanilla Pound
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 170°C (325°F). Grease and line your baking tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all ingredients together. Sift the flour into a bowl and mix in the salt and baking powder.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light in color. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter.
Step 4: Add Eggs Gradually
Slowly add the lightly beaten eggs to the mixture on low speed. If it begins to curdle, add a spoonful of flour to stabilize the mix. Continue adding eggs until fully incorporated. Don’t forget to add the vanilla extract!
Step 5: Combine Milk and Flour
Mix half of your milk with half of your flour on low speed until combined. Then add the remaining milk followed by gently folding in the rest of the flour until just combined.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Tin
Transfer your beautifully mixed batter into the prepared loaf tin. Smooth out the top with a spatula for even baking.
Step 7: Bake
Place in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 5 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the tin before transferring to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Now you’re set to enjoy your delicious Moist Vanilla Pound!
How to Serve Moist Vanilla Pound
Serving your Moist Vanilla Pound cake is a delightful way to enhance its flavors. This cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways, making it perfect for any occasion.
Classic Tea Pairing
- With a cup of tea – Enjoy a slice of Moist Vanilla Pound with your favorite cup of tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
Fresh Fruits
- With berries or fruit salad – Serve alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or a seasonal fruit salad to add a refreshing twist.
Ice Cream Delight
- With vanilla ice cream – Top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
Whipped Cream Topping
- With whipped cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Glazing Options
- With lemon glaze – Drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top for a bright citrus complement that elevates the flavors.
Simple Toasting
- Toasted slices – Lightly toast slices in the oven to create a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist interior.
How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Pound
To achieve the best results with your Moist Vanilla Pound, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room-temperature ingredients – Ensuring butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, leading to a better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to maintain the light and tender crumb that makes this cake so special.
- Check for doneness properly – Use a skewer to test for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.
- Cool completely before slicing – Allow the cake to cool fully on a wire rack before cutting, which helps maintain moisture and flavor.
- Store properly – Keep your pound cake in an airtight container to preserve its moisture and freshness longer.
- Experiment with flavors – Try adding different extracts or spices like almond or nutmeg to personalize your pound cake experience.
Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Pound
Pairing side dishes with your Moist Vanilla Pound can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and contrast, balancing the rich flavor of the cake.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side that complements the sweet cake.
- Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the pound cake for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please chocolate lovers.
- Caramel Sauce – Serve with homemade caramel sauce for a rich, buttery addition that pairs wonderfully with vanilla.
- Nut Mix – A crunchy nut mix can provide texture and flavor contrast while enhancing the overall dessert experience.
- Cheese Plate – Offer slices of mild cheese like Brie or cream cheese as an elegant pairing that adds savory notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Moist Vanilla Pound can be tricky if you’re not aware of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined for a light texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they blend. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Skipping the flour sifting: Not sifting flour can lead to lumps and uneven texture. Always sieve your flour before measuring to ensure a smooth batter.
- Not testing for doneness: A cake that isn’t fully baked may collapse. Use a skewer to check; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different, and cooking times may vary. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy for perfect baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Moist Vanilla Pound
- Wrap in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Moist Vanilla Pound
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Moist Vanilla Pound.
How do you make pound cake moist?
To achieve moisture, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. Incorporating milk also enhances softness.
What does pound cake taste like?
Pound cake has a rich, buttery flavor with hints of vanilla. Its dense texture makes it delightful alongside coffee or tea.
Why does my pound cake crack on top?
Cracking often occurs from too much leavening or baking at too high a temperature. Ensure you’re following the recipe closely.
Why is my pound cake heavy?
A heavy pound cake may result from overmixing or using too much flour. Measure accurately and mix gently for lightness.
How long should you beat a pound cake?
Beat the mixture just until combined after adding eggs; this prevents overmixing and helps keep the texture light.
Final Thoughts
The Moist Vanilla Pound is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain or customize it with your favorite toppings like fresh fruits or whipped cream. Give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of homemade comfort!
Moist Vanilla Pound
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Moist Vanilla Pound is the quintessential cake that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Its buttery texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a favorite for gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply as a comforting dessert at home. This classic pound cake features a moist crumb and a beautifully golden crust that is sure to impress your family and friends. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you can create this delightful treat with minimal effort, making it a staple in your baking collection. Pair it with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even ice cream to elevate your dessert experience—each slice promises to be tender and delicious!
Ingredients
- 225 g (1 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour (sieved)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 175 g (3/4 cup) softened butter
- 150 g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) milk
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F) and grease a loaf tin.
- In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the beaten eggs while mixing on low speed; add flour if the mixture curdles.
- Alternate adding milk and remaining flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
