Classic Southern Pound Cake

When it comes to dessert, few things are as comforting and beloved as a slice of Classic Southern Pound Cake. This delightful cake is rich, buttery, and has a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Perfectly sweetened with superfine sugar and harmoniously enhanced with cream cheese, this pound cake is a timeless classic that evokes memories of family gatherings and warm summer evenings on the porch. Let’s dive into what makes this pound cake so special and how you can make it shine in your own kitchen.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Classic Southern Pound Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Its dense yet moist structure makes it an ideal base for a variety of toppings or simply enjoyed on its own. The balance of sweetness from the sugar and the richness from the butter and cream cheese creates a cake that appeals to all palates. Whether served at a family reunion, a holiday gathering, or a casual brunch, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy. Its versatility allows it to be paired with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion.

What We’re Using

To create the perfect Classic Southern Pound Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups superfine sugar – This sugar dissolves easily, resulting in a smooth batter.
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature – For that rich, buttery flavor and moist texture.
• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature – Adds tanginess and moisture to the cake.
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature – Essential for structure and richness.
• 2 large egg yolks, at room temperature – For added richness and color.
• 1/4 cup half-and-half – Contributes to the cake’s tenderness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of the cake.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors in the cake.

Essential Tools for Success

Having the right tools makes all the difference in baking. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – To cream the butter and sugar smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Rubber spatula – To scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl.
• Loaf pan – A sturdy pan for baking your pound cake.
• Wire cooling rack – To cool the cake properly after baking.

Step-by-Step: Classic Southern Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease your loaf pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour, or use parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and superfine sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese

Add the cream cheese to the butter and sugar mixture, and continue to mix until well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Yolks

Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.

Step 6: Mix in Half-and-Half and Vanilla

Pour in the half-and-half and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 70-80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.

Step 10: Cool

Once baked, remove the pound cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider these substitutes:

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and coconut cream instead of cream cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Egg-Free: Use a commercial egg replacer or flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent.

If You’re Curious

Classic Southern Pound Cake has its roots deeply embedded in Southern baking traditions. Originally, pound cake recipes called for a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, which is where the name comes from. Over the years, variations have emerged, allowing bakers to infuse different flavors and textures into this classic recipe. Some bakers even add citrus zest or spices to give their pound cakes a unique twist.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

To keep your Classic Southern Pound Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Common Questions

Can I use regular sugar instead of superfine sugar?

While it’s best to use superfine sugar for a smoother texture, you can pulse regular granulated sugar in a food processor for a few seconds to achieve a finer consistency.

Why is my pound cake dense?

A dense pound cake can result from overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature and mix just until combined.

Can I add flavors to my pound cake?

Absolutely! You can add lemon zest, almond extract, or even a touch of bourbon to elevate the flavors of your Classic Southern Pound Cake.

How do I know when my pound cake is done baking?

The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Classic Southern Pound Cake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Experiment with different toppings or enjoy it plain with a cup of coffee or tea. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with friends and family, as this cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every delicious bite of your freshly baked pound cake. Happy baking!