Old Fashioned Pound Cake
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of homemade goodness. Perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, this classic cake stands out with its dense and buttery texture. You can serve it plain or adorn it with a fruit glaze or whipped topping for added flair. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and sugar creates a deep, satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Base: Use it as a foundation for countless toppings and glazes, making it suitable for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
- Tradition Meets Modernity: This recipe brings back childhood memories while fitting into today’s baking trends.
- Perfect Texture: The dense crumb holds up well to slicing and is ideal for serving at parties or gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. These essentials will make your experience easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Tube pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Tube pan: This shape allows the cake to bake evenly while providing a beautiful presentation.
- Electric mixer: It helps create a light and airy batter by thoroughly mixing the ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your pound cake.
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
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease and flour a tube pan to prevent sticking. Make sure every corner is covered for easy removal after baking.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter and 2 cups granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light in color, resembling pale yellow.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add in 6 large eggs, one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to maintain smooth consistency.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour
Gradually add 2 cups all-purpose flour, mixing in half-cup portions at a time. This technique helps maintain airiness in your batter.
Step 6: Bake
Pour your batter into the prepared tube pan. Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy this classic Old Fashioned Pound Cake as-is or dressed up with your favorite toppings!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is wonderfully versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up, there are plenty of delicious ways to serve this classic dessert.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and arrange them on top for a burst of sweetness.
- Blueberries: Scatter blueberries over the cake for a pop of color and flavor.
- Raspberries: Add a handful of raspberries for a tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich cake.
With Whipped Cream
- Classic Topping: Serve generous dollops of freshly whipped cream on each slice for added richness.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Mix in vanilla or almond extract into your whipped cream for an extra flavor boost.
Drizzled with Fruit Glaze
- Citrus Glaze: A simple lemon or orange glaze can enhance the cake’s flavor and add shine.
- Berry Glaze: Use fruit preserves mixed with a bit of water to create a glossy berry glaze that looks stunning.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the dense cake perfectly.
- Flavored Ice Cream: Try pairing it with chocolate or caramel ice cream for a decadent treat.
As a Breakfast Option
- Toasted Slices: Lightly toast slices to enjoy as a delightful breakfast option with coffee.
- French Toast Style: Dip slices in an egg mixture and cook on the skillet for a sweet twist on French toast.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Creating the perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Cream Butter and Sugar Well: Take your time when creaming butter and sugar together; aim for a light, fluffy mixture.
- Incorporate Flour Gradually: Adding flour slowly helps prevent lumps and ensures an even batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid toughening the cake.
- Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to verify accuracy.
- Let It Cool Properly: Cooling the cake in the pan allows it to set before transferring it to a wire rack.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Pound Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this classic treat.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over pound cake creates an indulgent combination everyone loves.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: This light, airy topping adds tropical flair that brightens each slice of cake.
- Caramel Sauce: Sweet caramel sauce drizzled over warm pound cake creates a luxurious dessert experience.
- Ice Cream Sundae Fixings: Set up a sundae bar with nuts, sprinkles, and cherries for fun customization options.
- Mint Sprigs: Garnish each plate with fresh mint leaves, adding color and refreshing flavor alongside the sweet cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Old Fashioned Pound Cake can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for.
- Butter Temperature: Using cold butter instead of softened butter can lead to a dense cake. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Egg Mixing: Adding all eggs at once can result in uneven mixing. Incorporate each egg one at a time for better consistency.
- Flour Incorporation: Adding flour too quickly may create lumps. Gradually mix in the flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, for a smooth batter.
- Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked cake. Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees before baking.
- Cooling Time: Removing the cake too soon from the pan can cause it to break. Allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Old Fashioned Pound Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will last up to one week when properly stored.
Freezing Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The pound cake can be frozen for up to three months without losing quality.
Reheating Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and warm slices for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering them with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Old Fashioned Pound Cake.
What makes Old Fashioned Pound Cake different from other cakes?
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is denser and richer due to its high butter and egg content compared to lighter cakes.
How long does it take to make Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an hour of baking, totaling around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Can I add flavors to my Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
Yes! You can incorporate vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract for added flavor options.
How should I serve Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
This cake is delightful on its own or served with fruit glaze, whipped cream, or fresh berries for added sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake is not just comforting; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with fresh fruit or glaze, this recipe is bound to satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors!
Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Old Fashioned Pound Cake, a classic dessert that evokes nostalgia and warmth. This recipe delivers a dense, buttery cake that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon tea. With its rich flavor and versatile nature, you can enjoy it plain or elevate it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a luscious glaze. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this pound cake is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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) and grease a tube pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared 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 it to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
