If you’re looking for a truly memorable pound cake recipe, this is it! Rich, buttery, and incredibly moist, this cake brings together three classic flavorings—vanilla, almond, and butter—for a taste that’s elegant yet comforting. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people ask for seconds (and the recipe!). Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing a make-ahead dessert for a special occasion, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this pound cake will never disappoint.
Ingredients:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
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3 cups granulated sugar
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6 large eggs, room temperature
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon almond extract
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½ teaspoon baking powder
Tip: Using room temperature ingredients helps them blend more evenly and results in a smoother, more cohesive batter.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 10-inch bundt or tube pan thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray. Lightly dust with flour, tapping out the excess. This step is key to preventing the cake from sticking and ensuring clean edges when unmolding.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using a stand mixer or handheld electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 4 to 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Take your time here—properly emulsifying the eggs into the batter helps create a rich, smooth texture.
Step 4: Add the Flavorings
Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. If you love a buttery flavor, consider adding ½ teaspoon of butter extract as well. The trio of flavorings is what sets this cake apart!
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This ensures the leavening is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Mix the Batter
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Do this in 2 to 3 batches, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Mix just until the last streak of flour disappears—do not overmix, or the cake may turn out dense.
Step 7: Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles and level the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 70 to 80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden and slightly cracked—that’s a good sign of a perfect pound cake!
Step 9: Cool and Unmold
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. If the cake doesn’t release right away, gently tap the pan and give it a few more minutes before trying again.
Serving Suggestions:
This pound cake is delicious all on its own, but here are a few ways to dress it up:
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Dust with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant finish.
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Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.
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Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream for a summery dessert.
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Toast a slice and top with ice cream for a decadent treat.
Storage Tips:
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Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 4 days.
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For longer storage, wrap and freeze slices individually for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations:
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Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty note.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
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Marble Effect: Reserve 1 cup of batter, mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and swirl it into the plain batter for a chocolate marble effect.
This pound cake has a tender crumb, a rich buttery flavor, and a perfectly golden crust. It’s a classic done right—simple enough for a weekday treat and special enough for celebrations. Once you try it, you’ll understand why so many consider this their go-to pound cake recipe.
