Old Fashioned Pound Cake
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake recipe is a timeless classic that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and celebrations. With its dense, buttery texture, this cake serves as an excellent base for various toppings, from fruit glazes to whipped cream. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat, it’s a versatile dessert that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with only four ingredients, this cake is easy to whip up anytime.
- Versatile Flavor: Enjoy it as-is or dress it up with fruits and sauces for any occasion.
- Rich Texture: The dense and moist crumb provides a satisfying bite that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
- Family Tradition: This recipe has been passed down through generations, making it a heartfelt addition to your kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful pound cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Tube pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Tube pan: This specialized pan helps achieve the classic pound cake shape and ensures even baking.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar to achieve the perfect fluffiness.
Ingredients
For this delicious Old Fashioned Pound Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 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 ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Grease and flour a tube pan thoroughly. This will help prevent sticking during the baking process.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture turns light in color, resembling pale yellow.
Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time
Add each egg one at a time into the mixture. Ensure you mix well after each addition until fully incorporated before adding the next egg.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour Gradually
Slowly add in the all-purpose flour, half a cup at a time. Mix until no flour streaks remain in your batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared tube pan. Bake 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 about 10-15 minutes. Then carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Now you have an irresistible Old Fashioned Pound Cake ready to serve!
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, dressed up with toppings, or as part of a larger dessert spread, there are plenty of delicious serving ideas to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Top your slice with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor.
- Sliced Bananas: Add banana slices for a creamy texture that pairs well with the cake’s density.
With Whipped Cream
- Classic Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast to the cake.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Experiment with vanilla or citrus zest for an extra twist on traditional whipped cream.
With Glazes and Sauces
- Fruit Glaze: Drizzle a fruit glaze made from your choice of berries or citrus for added sweetness.
- Chocolate Sauce: Pour warm chocolate sauce over the cake for a decadent treat.
As a Dessert Parfait
- Layered Dessert: Crumble pieces of pound cake in a glass and layer them with yogurt and fruits for a delightful parfait.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake
To achieve the best results with your Old Fashioned Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips:
- Ingredients: Use high-quality butter and eggs for richer flavor and texture.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps them incorporate better into the batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix after adding flour; this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
- Correct Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking throughout the cake.
- Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to avoid breaking it apart.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pound Cake
When planning a meal featuring Old Fashioned Pound Cake, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate the dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream provides a creamy contrast that enhances each bite.
- Chocolate Mousse: This rich dessert pairs beautifully with pound cake for those who love chocolate.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage brings out the flavors of the cake while providing a comforting finish.
- Custard Sauce: Drizzling homemade custard sauce over each slice adds another layer of indulgence.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can provide savory notes that complement the sweetness of the pound cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home bakers encounter pitfalls when making an Old Fashioned Pound Cake. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
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Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter can lead to a dense cake. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with sugar.
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Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Improper measurements can ruin the texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision to achieve that perfect pound cake.
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Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can create a tough cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and airy.
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Skipping the Cooling Step: Removing the cake too soon can cause it to break apart. Allow your Old Fashioned Pound Cake to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
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Oven Temperature Issues: An oven that’s too hot can brown the cake too quickly without baking it through. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep moisture in.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium for about 10-15 seconds; do not overheat.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, turning frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Old Fashioned Pound Cake that might help you bake it perfectly!
How do I know when my Old Fashioned Pound Cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can also check if it’s golden brown on top and springs back when lightly touched.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Old Fashioned Pound Cake recipe?
Yes, you can use alternatives like coconut oil for butter or whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but these will change the flavor and texture slightly.
Why is my Old Fashioned Pound Cake dense?
A dense pound cake often results from overmixing or using cold ingredients. Make sure everything is at room temperature and mix just enough until combined.
Can I add flavors to my Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
Absolutely! You can incorporate vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract for added depth of flavor. Just adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a nostalgic dessert that brings comfort and joy. Its dense yet tender texture makes it versatile, allowing you to enjoy it plain or dressed up with fruits or glazes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or toppings to make this classic treat uniquely yours!
Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a cherished recipe that evokes memories of family gatherings and celebrations. This classic dessert boasts a rich, buttery flavor and a dense texture, making it perfect for any occasion—be it birthdays, holidays, or a cozy afternoon snack. Its simplicity lies in its few key ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the delightful taste without fuss. Serve it plain or elevate it with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or glazes for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
- 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 thoroughly.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
