5 Pound Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Indulge in the rich and buttery goodness of a classic pound cake, perfectly balanced with vanilla and a hint of vibrant yellow food coloring. This delightful treat is ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Its tender crumb and sweet flavor make it a favorite among all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. butter
  • 2 c. sugar
  • 2 tsp. vanilla
  • 2 1/4 c. self-rising flour
  • 1 c. milk
  • 1 tsp. yellow food coloring
  • 5 eggs

Instructions

  1. Mix butter and sugar together.
  2. Add eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and food coloring.
  3. Beat with mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
  4. Alternate adding flour and milk until mixed thoroughly.
  5. Bake in a 350° oven in 3 round 8-inch pans for 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adjusting the salt content accordingly. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by adding 2 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to all-purpose flour. Mixing in some lemon zest can also add a refreshing twist to this classic cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cake plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a simple presentation. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful dessert experience, consider serving it alongside Snowball Salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 5 Pound Cake contains roughly 399 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 21g fat.

399 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.6g 5% DV
Total Fat 21.2g 27% DV
Carbs 26g 9% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 5.3g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 9.5mg
Potassium 135.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 64.7mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.3mcg
Vitamin C 7.3mg 8% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 15.8mg 1% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, if you use regular flour, make sure to add 2 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to achieve the same leavening effect. This substitution will help your cake rise beautifully.

What can I substitute for yellow food coloring?

If you prefer not to use food coloring, you can omit it altogether for a more natural look. Alternatively, a small amount of turmeric can be used as a natural coloring agent, but be cautious as it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make this recipe as a single layer cake?

Yes, you can make this as a single layer cake. Adjust the baking time to about 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. A single layer will also allow for more decorative frosting options if desired.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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