Description
A classic, buttery vanilla pound cake with a tender crumb and rich flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this foolproof recipe delivers bakery-quality results every time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it thoroughly or lining with parchment paper.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- 3. Gradually add sugar to the butter, continuing to beat for another 5 minutes until the mixture is pale and billowy.
- 4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure proper emulsification and prevent curdling.
- 5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- 6. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the creamed butter in three additions, beginning and ending with flour, mixing on low speed just until incorporated.
- 7. Fold in vanilla extract gently with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- 8. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula, and tap pan gently on counter to release air bubbles.
- 9. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- 10. Cool in pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve at room temperature for best flavor and texture. Top with powdered sugar, glaze, fresh berries, or whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g