Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe
If you are craving a dessert that captures warmth, nostalgia, and a hint of spirited charm, this Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. With its tender crumb, buttery richness, and that unmistakable note of Southern Comfort whiskey woven right into the batter, it’s a cake that feels like a hug with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you deserve something truly delightful, this recipe blends simple pantry staples with a splash of personality, resulting in a classic pound cake that’s anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From fluffy flour to the velvety butter, and not to forget the star of the show—Southern Comfort whiskey—this lineup makes the baking process simple and satisfying.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to your cake and creates a tender crumb.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Just enough lift to keep the cake light without compromising its dense, pound cake nature.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened: Delivers that classic buttery richness and moistness that defines pound cake.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Provides the right sweetness and helps create a beautiful golden crust.
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature: Adds moisture and binding power, helping the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to complement the whiskey.
- 1 tsp almond extract: Offers a subtle nutty note that elevates the overall flavor complexity.
- ½ cup Southern Comfort whiskey: The signature ingredient adding a distinct, smooth character and a little southern spirit.
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature: Keeps the cake luxuriously moist and tender while adding a slight tang.
How to Make Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Greasing and flouring a 10-inch bundt or tube pan is essential to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. A well-prepared pan prevents sticking and lets those lovely golden edges shine.
Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking these ingredients together ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, setting the stage for consistent rising and flavor in your cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—this usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is critical because creaming air into the butter and sugar creates that tender texture and a nice rise.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain the emulsion. Then, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for a lovely aroma and depth of flavor that perfectly complements the whiskey later on.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Now, mix in the dry flour mixture and sour cream in three parts, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold after each addition just until combined to avoid over-mixing, which can make your pound cake tough rather than tender.
Step 6: Stir in Southern Comfort Whiskey
Pour in the Southern Comfort whiskey and carefully fold it into the batter until everything is beautifully incorporated. This spirited splash adds a subtle warmth and remarkable flavor that’s unmistakably Southern.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Perfectly Set
Transfer your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. Slide your cake into the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, and the crust has turned a lovely golden brown.
Step 8: Cool, Unmold, and Optional Glaze
Allow the cake to cool inside the pan for about 10 minutes to settle, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with a touch of Southern Comfort whiskey over the cake for a lovely, boozy finish.
How to Serve Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To complement the rich flavors, top slices of this pound cake with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs beautifully, balancing the cake’s richness and adding a refreshing creaminess.
Side Dishes
This Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe shines alongside afternoon tea or coffee and serves as a lovely ending to a hearty Southern meal. Pair it with fresh fruit compotes or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate your dessert experience further.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your pound cake thick and serve it as the base for an elegant trifle layered with custard, fruits, and whipped cream. Alternatively, cut into cubes and skewer alongside marshmallows and fruit for a sophisticated dessert kebab at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pound cake keeps well at room temperature when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed prevents it from drying out and maintains that tender, moist texture.
Freezing
If you want to save your Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe for longer, slice it and individually wrap pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the pound cake fresh out of the freezer, thaw slices overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours. For a “just-baked” warmth, reheat slices gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a low oven for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Southern Comfort whiskey?
Absolutely! While Southern Comfort adds a unique flavor, you can use other bourbons or whiskey varieties you prefer. Just keep in mind each will slightly alter the taste, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect match.
What if I don’t have almond extract?
No worries! If almond extract isn’t on hand, you can omit it or replace it with an extra half teaspoon of vanilla extract. The almond adds a subtle nutty note, but the cake will still be delicious without it.
Is sour cream necessary in this recipe?
Sour cream plays a crucial role in adding moisture and a slight tanginess that balances the cake’s sweetness. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt if needed, but skipping it may result in a denser or drier cake.
How do I know when the pound cake is fully baked?
Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake: if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. The top should also be golden brown and spring back slightly when touched.
Can I make this cake in a loaf pan instead of a bundt pan?
Yes, a loaf pan works just fine! Keep in mind, baking times may vary slightly; start checking around 50 minutes to prevent overbaking. The texture and flavor will be just as wonderful.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Southern flavor traditions and simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, I can’t recommend this recipe enough for its ease, classic appeal, and heartwarming taste. Give it a whirl—you just might find your new favorite cake for every occasion!
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Southern Comfort Pound Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Southern Comfort Pound Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines classic pound cake richness with the warm, smooth notes of Southern Comfort whiskey. Perfectly balanced with vanilla and almond extracts, this cake is ideal for gatherings or a delightful treat anytime.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- ½ cup Southern Comfort whiskey (or your preferred whiskey)
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Add the five large eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure proper incorporation. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for flavor.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the sour cream in two parts. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently just until combined after each addition to keep the batter smooth and avoid overmixing.
- Add Southern Comfort: Stir in the ½ cup of Southern Comfort whiskey thoroughly until the batter is uniform in texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set. Then carefully remove the cake from the pan and allow it to cool completely on the rack. Optionally, drizzle with a glaze made by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of Southern Comfort whiskey for extra flavor before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and sour cream, are at room temperature for better batter consistency.
- Do not overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients to keep the cake tender.
- Use a toothpick test to check for doneness to avoid under or overbaking.
- For an extra moist cake, serve with a whiskey glaze or fresh fruit.
- This cake keeps well for 3 days when wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
