Description
This Classic Pound Cake recipe offers a rich, buttery dessert with a tender crumb and golden crust, perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and baked to perfection, it yields about 12 servings of moist, flavorful cake.
Ingredients
Scale
Butter and Sugar
- 1 pound (2 cups) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
Eggs
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step incorporates air for a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a smooth and homogenous batter without curdling.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter, sugar, and eggs on low speed to prevent overmixing and developing gluten, which could toughen the cake.
- Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly for consistent baking and appearance.
- Bake: Bake the cake for 60 to 70 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking to maintain moisture.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to firm up slightly, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and softened butter to ensure smooth mixing and a light texture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to avoid a dense cake.
- Test doneness with a toothpick to avoid a dry cake.
- This cake can be stored wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a glaze for extra flavor.
