Grandma’s Pound Cake Recipe: A Timeless Dessert You’ll Love
There’s something magical about a classic pound cake. Its rich, buttery flavor and dense yet tender crumb make it a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Today, I’m sharing my Grandma’s Perfect Pound Cake Recipe, a family treasure that’s been passed down for generations. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the steps to create this iconic dessert, share tips for achieving the perfect texture, and recommend some must-have tools to make your baking experience even better. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Pound Cake Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples like butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. No fancy ingredients required!
- Moist & Flavorful: The secret to its richness? A perfect balance of butter and eggs, plus a touch of vanilla for depth.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with fresh berries, or drizzle it with a glaze. It’s perfect for any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, this pound cake always steals the show.
7 Secrets to the Perfect Pound Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can ruin the texture. Let them sit out for 30 minutes before baking.
- Cream Butter & Sugar Thoroughly: This step creates air pockets, ensuring a light and fluffy cake.
- Add Eggs One at a Time: Incorporate each egg fully before adding the next to avoid curdling.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use a Bundt Pan: A Bundt pan ensures even baking and gives the cake its classic shape.
- Check for Doneness Early: Pound cakes can dry out if overbaked. Start checking at 50 minutes.
- Let It Cool Completely: Resist the urge to slice it warm! Cooling allows the flavors to develop fully.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, here are a few tools that will make your baking experience smoother:
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: For creaming butter and sugar effortlessly.
- Bundt Pan: This non-stick Bundt pan is my go-to for perfect cakes every time.
- Silicone Spatula: To scrape the bowl and ensure no batter goes to waste.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for letting your cake cool evenly.
Grandma’s Perfect Pound Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
- Bundt Pan
- Silicone spatula
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups 3 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract optional, but highly recommended
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Add Extracts: Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert it onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Add a Glaze: Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for a simple glaze.
- Berry Topping: Serve with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a summery twist.
- Chocolate Chip Version: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips before baking for a decadent treat.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and explore more delicious desserts like Vegan Upside-Down Apple Cake or Milk Bar Pumpkin Pie. Happy baking!