Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe

If you are on the lookout for an irresistibly buttery, moist, and utterly scrumptious dessert, this Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Its tender crumb and rich flavor come from the perfect marriage of simple ingredients combined with a few expert techniques. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just indulging on a cozy afternoon, this classic pound cake brings comfort and joy with every single slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beautiful thing about this Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each item is thoughtfully chosen to build flavor, ensure a moist texture, and give that classic golden color everyone loves in a pound cake.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake, providing structure and that signature crumb.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Just enough leavening to keep this dense cake delightfully tender.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Elevates all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings rich creaminess and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening: Helps keep the cake moist and tender while adding a subtle lightness.
• 3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens generously for that classic pound cake richness.
• 6 large eggs: The magic binders that add moisture, richness, and lift.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A hint of warmth and depth to enhance every bite.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and a luscious finish to the batter.

How to Make Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan to ensure your cake releases easily once baked. A well-prepared pan is key when making pound cake to keep that perfect shape and texture.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting aerates these ingredients, making it easier to incorporate them evenly throughout the batter for a consistent crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial—it traps air that helps the cake rise and gives it that beautiful, tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and aerated. Then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the mixture with its inviting aroma and flavor.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Heavy Cream

Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the heavy cream, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently and just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the finished cake tender.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake to Perfection

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This slow baking at a moderate temperature ensures the cake cooks evenly without drying out.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential for the cake to set and makes slicing much easier without crumbling.

How to Serve Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A classic pound cake like this perfect Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe shines with simple garnishes. Dust it lightly with powdered sugar, add a dollop of whipped cream, or serve it alongside fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness that complements the cake’s rich sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of homemade fruit compote makes for an indulgent treat. A cup of your favorite coffee or tea also elevates the experience, making every bite feel like a comforting celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake and layer it with whipped cream and sliced strawberries to create a quick and elegant trifle. You can even cube the cake and toast the pieces lightly to serve as a crunchy topping for desserts or ice cream for an unexpected twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pound cake keeps wonderfully at room temperature and should be stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to retain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe around longer, slice it and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. This method preserves the flavor and texture for 2 to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers warm, thaw slices at room temperature, then reheat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm briefly in an oven set to 300°F (150°C). This brings back that freshly-baked warmth and softness.

FAQs

What makes this a Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe?

This recipe earns its name from its rich, buttery flavor, tender crumb, and the perfect balance achieved by combining butter with vegetable shortening, plenty of sugar, and heavy cream, creating a truly decadent indulgence.

Can I use a different pan instead of a bundt or tube pan?

While a bundt or tube pan helps ensure even baking, you can use a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly and watch the cake closely to avoid overbaking.

Is it necessary to use both butter and shortening?

Butter adds flavor and richness, while vegetable shortening contributes tenderness and helps maintain moisture. Using both gives the cake its perfect texture, but you can substitute all butter if preferred, though the result may be slightly less tender.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can fold in lemon zest, almond extract, or even fresh berries or chocolate chips. Just be mindful not to add too much liquid or mix-ins that might alter the baking time and texture.

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

Your best test is the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked. Avoid opening the oven too often during baking to maintain even heat.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe is worth every minute in the kitchen. It’s straightforward, reliably delicious, and flexible enough to make many occasions special. Bake it for your loved ones or treat yourself—you’ll soon find it’s one of those recipes you’ll return to again and again.

Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe

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3.9 from 23 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This Million Dollar Pound Cake is a rich, moist, and decadent dessert featuring a tender crumb and buttery flavor. Made with a blend of butter, shortening, cream, and sugar, this classic pound cake is perfect for any occasion and pairs beautifully with fresh berries or whipped cream.

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Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to keep the mixture light and ensure even distribution.
3. Cream Butter, Shortening, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whip the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes and helps create a tender crumb.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate air. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the heavy cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
6. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt or tube pan and spread it smoothly to ensure even baking.
7. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
8. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before carefully removing it and transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve: Slice and serve this decadent cake plain, or garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries as desired.

Notes

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a dense cake.
• Butter and shortening combination contributes to moistness and tender texture.
• The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
• For extra indulgence, drizzle with a glaze or serve with fresh fruit compote.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American