Aunt Lettie'S Pound Cake
A rich and moist pound cake with classic vanilla and lemon flavors, perfect for special occasions or teatime indulgence. Its dense texture and buttery sweetness make it a favorite among dessert lovers seeking a nostalgic, homemade treat that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Separate the eggs into yolks and whites.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add 6 tablespoons of sugar to the egg whites while beating.
- Place the beaten egg whites in the refrigerator.
- Cream the butter and add the remaining sugar; beat at low speed.
- Add 2 egg yolks at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
- Alternately add the evaporated milk and sifted flour to the mixture.
- Add vanilla extract and lemon flavoring.
- Fold in the beaten egg whites gently.
- Pour the batter into a greased steeple pan.
- Bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming, which allows for better incorporation of air. If you don't have lemon flavoring, you can substitute with fresh lemon juice and zest. To save time, you can use a stand mixer to beat the egg whites and cream the butter mixture. This pound cake pairs beautifully with Chocolate Buttermilk Pound Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Lettie's Pound Cake plain or dusted with powdered sugar. It pairs well with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delicious dessert. You can also enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For a unique twist, consider serving it with a side of Microwave Pralines for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds until slightly warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lettie'S Pound Cake contains roughly 373 calories, with 6g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 only margarine instead of butter for this recipe?
While you can use margarine instead of butter, it may alter the flavor and texture of the cake. Butter provides a rich taste and a denser texture, which are key to a traditional pound cake. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using a mix of margarine and butter.
What can I do if my cake is too dry?
If your pound cake turns out dry, you can drizzle it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved. This will add moisture and sweetness. Additionally, ensure not to overbake the cake, as that can lead to dryness.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the pound cake is done, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes, checking periodically.
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).