Grandma Merritt'S Famous Lemon Pound Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Grandma Merritt's Lemon Pound Cake is a moist, buttery treat infused with bright lemon and vanilla flavors. Its dense texture and sweet aroma make it perfect for family gatherings or afternoon tea, appealing to those who enjoy classic, flavorful desserts with a citrus twist.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 sticks butter, softened
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3 cups flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 7 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon lemon and vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Cream the softened butter until smooth.
  2. Add sugar and mix well until combined.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
  4. Beat the mixture well until fluffy.
  5. Add milk and mix thoroughly.
  6. Slowly add the flour, salt, and baking powder, mixing until just combined.
  7. Add lemon and vanilla extract for flavoring and mix well.
  8. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, use high-quality butter and fresh lemon juice. If you don't have lemon extract, you can substitute with additional vanilla extract. To avoid overmixing, fold in the dry ingredients gently. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. This cake is versatile and can be served plain or with a glaze. For a twist, try adding poppy seeds for texture.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the lemon pound cake and serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Meringue Kisses for an elegant presentation. Consider pairing it with tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. You can also drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top for extra sweetness and tang.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist, and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma Merritt'S Famous Lemon Pound Cake contains roughly 622 calories, with 9g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

622 kcal 31% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.8g 18% DV
Total Fat 32.1g 41% DV
Carbs 75g 27% DV
Fiber 4.3g 16% DV
Sugar 9.4g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 391.7mg 17% DV
Potassium 265.4mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 89.3mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 37.7mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 24.9mg 28% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 194.7mg 15% DV
Iron 4.5mg 25% DV
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 a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture. However, keep in mind that using whole wheat flour may alter the flavor and density of the cake.

What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?

If your cake sinks, it may be due to overmixing or not baking long enough. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated and avoid opening the oven door frequently during baking to maintain a consistent temperature.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it has wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

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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