Easy Vanilla Pound Cake
Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes
Savor the delightful simplicity of this Easy Vanilla Pound Cake, perfect for any occasion.
This Easy Vanilla Pound Cake is a timeless classic that brings back memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Its rich vanilla flavor and moist texture make it a favorite among both young and old.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Rich vanilla flavor that enhances any dessert table
- Versatile and pairs well with fruits, creams, or simply on its own
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
This Easy Vanilla Pound Cake is a versatile dessert that fits any occasion, whether it's a casual family gathering, a festive birthday party, or a cozy tea time with friends. Its light and fluffy texture complements a wide variety of toppings, making it an excellent choice for those looking to impress without the fuss. Serve it plain for a simple treat or dress it up with whipped cream and fresh berries for a more elegant presentation.
Moreover, this cake is equally delightful as a standalone snack or as a base for other desserts, such as trifles or parfaits. Its rich vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with seasonal fruits, making it a great choice year-round. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet finish to dinner, this cake is sure to please.
Baking Tips for Success
For the best results with your Easy Vanilla Pound Cake, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. If your butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly with the sugar, leading to a denser cake. Also, remember to measure your flour correctly; using too much can result in a heavy loaf.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Mixing just until combined will help maintain the cake’s airy structure. Finally, every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. If you find the top browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Easy Vanilla Pound Cake has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature and it will taste as fresh as the day you baked it.
When serving, you can slice the cake and top it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze for a touch of sweetness. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent treat. This cake also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift when wrapped beautifully, perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Easy Vanilla Pound Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious vanilla pound cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a glaze!
Nutritional Information
This Easy Vanilla Pound Cake is a delightful treat, but it's also essential to be mindful of its nutritional content. Each slice provides a balance of carbohydrates from the sugar and flour, along with fats from the butter, making it an indulgent yet satisfying dessert option. A typical serving is approximately 200 calories, depending on the thickness of the slice and any additional toppings used.
For those watching their sugar intake, consider substituting granulated sugar with a sugar alternative or using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. These modifications can help reduce the overall calorie count while still delivering a delicious cake that everyone will love.
Variations to Try
While the classic vanilla flavor is undeniably delightful, you can easily experiment with this recipe to create exciting variations. For instance, try adding lemon zest for a refreshing citrus note or a swirl of chocolate ganache for a rich chocolate-flavored pound cake. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and depth to the flavor.
Additionally, consider mixing in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to elevate the texture and taste. These simple additions can transform your Easy Vanilla Pound Cake into a whole new dessert experience, making it a versatile recipe that you can enjoy time and again.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
→ How can I store leftover pound cake?
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this pound cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it well and thaw it at room temperature when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with pound cake?
Pound cake is delicious on its own or can be served with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream.
Easy Vanilla Pound Cake
Savor the delightful simplicity of this Easy Vanilla Pound Cake, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Easy Vanilla Pound Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g