Mississippi Pound Cake
Mississippi Pound Cake is a rich, moist dessert featuring the classic combination of buttery sweetness and subtle hints of almond, coconut, and rum extracts. Its dense texture and golden crust make it perfect for special occasions or a comforting treat with fresh fruit and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and shortening together until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Mix in about half of the flour along with the baking powder.
- Stir in the milk, evaporated milk, and the extracts (almond, coconut, and rum).
- Add the remaining flour and mix until just incorporated.
- Beat the mixture briefly until it becomes fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Grease and flour a Bundt pan thoroughly.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1.5 hours.
- Allow the cake to sit in the pan for 10 minutes after baking, then turn it out onto a cake plate.
- Let the cake cool completely before lightly sprinkling with powdered sugar.
- Garnish with fresh fruit before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using all butter instead of shortening. If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation. When mixing, be careful not to overbeat after adding the flour to maintain a tender crumb. This cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Mississippi Pound Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh berries for a delightful presentation. It also goes well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a brunch occasion, consider pairing it with coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon treat. This cake is perfect for gatherings or as a comforting dessert after a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap the cooled pound cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mississippi Pound Cake contains roughly 856 calories, with 5g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein.
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 substitute the almond extract with something else?
Yes, you can replace almond extract with vanilla extract or omit it entirely if you prefer a more neutral flavor. If you're a fan of citrus, adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest can also enhance the cake's flavor.
What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sunken cake can be caused by several factors, including underbaking or overmixing. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated and that you bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour to maintain a light texture.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the edges should pull away slightly from the sides of the pan, and the top will be golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.
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).