Old Fashioned Pound Cake
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that brings back cherished memories of my mother’s kitchen. With its rich, buttery flavor and dense texture, this classic pound cake is an excellent choice for any occasion, from family gatherings to tea parties. Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with fruit glazes or whipped toppings, making it a beloved treat for all.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor – The combination of butter and sugar creates a moist, flavorful cake that melts in your mouth.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with just a few pantry staples, this Old Fashioned Pound Cake is easy to whip up anytime.
- Versatile Dessert – Enjoy it plain or dress it up with fruit or whipped cream for a stunning finish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake is sure to impress.
- Family Tradition – This recipe is a nod to the past and can become a favorite in your own family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking your Old Fashioned Pound Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Tube pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Tube pan – This specific pan allows for even baking and gives the cake its classic shape.
- Electric mixer – It makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.
- 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
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease and flour a tube pan thoroughly. This will prevent the cake from sticking and help achieve a clean release after baking.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light in color—like a pale yellow. This process incorporates air into the mixture for a fluffy texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs Gradually
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well after each addition until each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour
Slowly incorporate the flour into the mixture. Do this gradually by adding 1/2 cup at a time while mixing on low speed. This helps maintain airiness in your batter.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared tube pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before removing it from the pan. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
With these steps completed, you’ll have made an exquisite Old Fashioned Pound Cake that’s ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with toppings, there are numerous delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and serve them on top of the pound cake for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Blueberries: Toss blueberries lightly in sugar to enhance their sweetness, then spoon them over a slice of cake.
Drizzled with Glaze
- Lemon Glaze: A simple lemon glaze adds a zesty touch that complements the buttery richness of the pound cake.
- Chocolate Ganache: Warm chocolate ganache poured over slices creates a decadent treat perfect for chocolate lovers.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped on each slice for added creaminess.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract to your whipped cream for extra flavor.
Served with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the dense texture of the pound cake.
- Fruit Sorbet: For a lighter option, serve with fruit sorbet that complements the cake’s butteriness.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake
To achieve the best results with your Old Fashioned Pound Cake, follow these helpful tips for baking success.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and butter are at room temperature will help create a smooth batter and improve overall texture.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents too much flour from making your pound cake dense.
- Don’t overmix: After adding flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture in your cake.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is at the correct temperature. An accurate oven ensures even baking.
- Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before removing it. This helps maintain its shape and prevents sticking.
- Store correctly: To keep your pound cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to five days.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Pound Cake can enhance its flavor profile. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the pound cake.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats complement the buttery taste with their coconut flavor.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries pairs beautifully with each slice of pound cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty, these bars offer a delightful contrast when served alongside the pound cake.
- Peach Crisp: Warm peach crisp brings out fruity flavors that blend well with the dense texture of the cake.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over both the cake and any side dish is sure to please your sweet tooth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Old Fashioned Pound Cake can be simple, but there are common mistakes that may ruin your dessert. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- butter temperature: Using cold butter can lead to a dense cake. Always use softened butter for the best texture.
- egg temperature: Cold eggs can cause the batter to curdle. Use room temperature eggs for a smooth mixture.
- flour incorporation: Adding too much flour at once can create lumps. Incorporate flour gradually, about 1/2 cup at a time.
- baking time: Opening the oven door too early can affect rising. Wait until at least halfway through baking before checking.
- cooling method: Skipping the cooling step in the pan can lead to a soggy bottom. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap for freshness.
Freezing Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Freeze wrapped slices or whole cakes in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months.
- Label with the date for easy identification.
Reheating Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Old Fashioned Pound Cake different?
Old Fashioned Pound Cake has a dense structure and rich flavor due to its simple ingredients of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. It’s known for its moist texture and buttery taste.
How do I ensure my Old Fashioned Pound Cake rises properly?
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid overmixing after adding the flour to maintain air pockets that help with rising.
Can I add flavorings to Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
Yes! You can enhance your pound cake by adding vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract. These additions provide delightful flavors.
How long does it take to bake Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
Baking typically takes about 60 minutes at 350°F. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it plain or dress it up with fruit glazes or whipped cream. Its comforting flavors are perfect for any occasion, making it a delightful treat worth trying!
Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgic charm of this Old Fashioned Pound Cake, a timeless dessert that evokes warm memories from family kitchens. With its rich buttery flavor and dense, moist texture, this classic cake is perfect for any gathering—from cozy tea parties to festive celebrations. The simple ingredients make it easy to prepare, while its versatility allows you to enjoy it plain or enhanced with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or delectable glazes. Whether you’re creating new traditions or honoring old ones, this beloved recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (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.
- Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually incorporate the flour into the mixture on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
