Vanilla Pound Cake Delight Recipe
If you’re searching for a classic dessert that feels like a warm, buttery hug in every bite, Vanilla Pound Cake Delight is the answer you’ve been craving. This cake is rich yet tender, with a dreamy aroma of vanilla that fills the kitchen as it bakes. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to pass down and make for every celebration, or just because you need a sweet pick-me-up. Whether served with berries and cream or enjoyed plain, each slice of Vanilla Pound Cake Delight is pure comfort and nostalgia on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Vanilla Pound Cake Delight is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, creating that signature moist crumb and inviting golden color. Don’t be tempted to cut corners—these pantry staples are what make this cake unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation of the cake’s rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture; be sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the cake and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Large eggs (4): Give structure, lift, and a velvety crumb while adding a touch of richness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): The star flavor—use the real deal for the best aromatic results in your Vanilla Pound Cake Delight.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the right amount of body and structure for a classic pound cake.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Offers just a hint of lift, making the cake light without losing that classic pound cake density.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and creates a tender crumb; don’t substitute with lower-fat milk for best results.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): A simple, elegant finish that adds a touch of sweetness and old-fashioned charm.
How to Make Vanilla Pound Cake Delight
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan thoroughly, making sure to get into every nook and cranny if you’re using a bundt. This step is key for ensuring your Vanilla Pound Cake Delight releases perfectly after baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is essential, as it incorporates air and creates that signature pound cake texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures they’re fully incorporated and helps prevent the batter from curdling. Stir in the pure vanilla extract, letting its fragrance set the stage for your Vanilla Pound Cake Delight.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step makes sure the leavening and salt are evenly distributed, so every bite of cake tastes just right.
Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently and only until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, and we want every slice of Vanilla Pound Cake Delight to be tender.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Slide it into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of vanilla! The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool and Finish
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. For an elegant touch, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing and serving your Vanilla Pound Cake Delight.
How to Serve Vanilla Pound Cake Delight
Garnishes
A light snow of powdered sugar is classic, but you can also top your Vanilla Pound Cake Delight with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a handful of vibrant berries, or even a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for something extra-special.
Side Dishes
Pairing this cake with sides can elevate it from simple to spectacular. Try serving each slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a spoonful of lemon curd, or a medley of seasonal fruit for a refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dessert plate, cut the Vanilla Pound Cake Delight into cubes and layer them with cream and berries in parfait glasses. You can also grill slices lightly and serve with a scoop of ice cream for a warm-cold treat, or use it as a base for strawberry shortcake.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The Vanilla Pound Cake Delight stays moist and delicious, making it perfect for enjoying over several days.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled cake (whole or in slices) first in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep beautifully for up to three months—simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for more Vanilla Pound Cake Delight.
Reheating
For that freshly-baked taste, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast gently in a toaster oven. This brings out the cake’s buttery aroma and makes Vanilla Pound Cake Delight feel like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different extract instead of vanilla?
Absolutely! While vanilla is classic, you can swap in almond extract or even add a touch of lemon zest for a fun twist. Just know that the signature flavor of Vanilla Pound Cake Delight comes from pure vanilla, so any substitutions will change the personality of your cake.
Why is my pound cake dense or heavy?
Pound cake is meant to be rich, but overmixing or using cold ingredients can make it overly dense. Make sure your butter is softened, eggs are at room temperature, and mix just until the ingredients are combined for the perfect Vanilla Pound Cake Delight texture.
Can I bake this recipe in a bundt pan?
Yes! Vanilla Pound Cake Delight looks gorgeous baked in a bundt pan. Just be sure to grease every nook and cranny well, and keep an eye on the bake time—it may vary slightly depending on your pan’s shape and material.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but you’ll still have a delicious Vanilla Pound Cake Delight to enjoy.
What’s the best way to add extra flavor?
For deeper flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a splash of citrus zest. You can also fold in mini chocolate chips or swirl in a ribbon of fruit preserves to give your Vanilla Pound Cake Delight a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dessert that’s equal parts nostalgic and irresistible, Vanilla Pound Cake Delight is calling your name. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style, and once you bake it, you’ll see why it’s earned a permanent spot in my kitchen. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let your home fill with the sweet scent of vanilla—it’s time to treat yourself to a slice of pure delight!
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Vanilla Pound Cake Delight Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic and rich vanilla pound cake made with butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, perfect for dessert or teatime. This moist and tender cake has a buttery crumb and delightful vanilla flavor, ideal for serving plain or with fresh berries and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender crumb.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar if desired and serve plain or with accompaniments like fresh berries and whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract or a splash of lemon zest to the batter.
- This pound cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries and whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and moist.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
