Old-Fashioned Pound Cake
Description
This Old-Fashioned Pound Cake is the epitome of Southern comfort baking. True to its name, traditional recipes use equal weights of flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, resulting in a rich, dense crumb that holds up beautifully to slicing. The addition of both vanilla and almond extracts elevates the flavor profile, providing a warm, aromatic sweetness that pairs perfectly with afternoon tea or a post-dinner coffee. The texture is moist yet substantial, avoiding the dryness often associated with older pound cakes. It is an ideal centerpiece for brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply a quiet moment of indulgence. Serve it plain for a rustic charm, or dust it generously with powdered sugar for a festive finish. This recipe yields a generous cake that stores well, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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Generously butter and flour a 12-cup Bundt pan or a 10-inch tube pan, ensuring all crevices are coated to prevent sticking.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
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Gradually add the sifted confectioners sugar to the butter, beating on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well blended.
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Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
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Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract until evenly distributed.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted cake flour and salt.
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Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, beating on low speed until just thoroughly combined and no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix.
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Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
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Run a knife through the batter once to release any large air bubbles.
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Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
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Carefully remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on the wire rack.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2813.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 107.9g166%
- Saturated Fat 63.9g320%
- Cholesterol 537.8mg180%
- Sodium 3305.6mg138%
- Total Carbohydrate 435.8g146%
- Dietary Fiber 4.1g17%
- Sugars 241.2g
- Protein 30.0g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Pan Variations: This batter can also be baked in two 9x5-inch loaf pans. If using loaf pans, reduce the baking time to 50âÂÂ55 minutes at 350ðF.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the cake plain for a traditional experience, or dust generously with additional confectioners sugar, drizzle with a simple glaze, or add a buttercream frosting.
Storage: Store cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Ingredient Tip: Ensure butter is softened to room temperature but not melted for the best creaming results. Cake flour provides a tender crumb; if unavailable, substitute all-purpose flour but measure carefully to avoid density.