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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt or tube pan and spread it smoothly to ensure even baking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
