Description
This Delightful Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake is a moist and tender treat made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, butter, and buttermilk. Enhanced by the rich flavor of vanilla and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, this classic pound cake is perfect for any occasion, whether as a dessert or a special breakfast treat. The cake bakes to a beautiful golden brown with a light crumb and a rich, creamy finish from the sweet glaze.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 2 tsp baking powder
Glaze Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick during baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and light, which helps incorporate air into the batter for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, fully blending after each addition to maintain an even and smooth batter texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, to keep the batter smooth and prevent overmixing.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the pure vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the batter with rich vanilla flavor.
- Pour and Smooth Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly for consistent baking.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the cake turns a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze: While the cake is cooling, create the glaze by whisking together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the warm cake with the cream cheese glaze, allowing it to slightly soak in and add a sweet, tangy finish before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better batter consistency and texture.
- Check the cake at 50 minutes and cover loosely with foil if it browns too quickly to prevent burning.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before glazing to avoid melting the glaze completely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American