Mrs. Harris' Pound Cake
Mrs. Harris' Pound Cake offers a rich, buttery flavor with hints of vanilla and lemon, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions with a moist, tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs and beat well.
- Add flour and milk alternately, beginning and ending with flour.
- Add vanilla and lemon flavoring, mixing well.
- Pour batter into a prepared loaf pan.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the batter. You can substitute half of the Crisco with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer, replace the lemon flavoring with almond extract for a different twist. Always sift your flour to avoid lumps and measure accurately for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this delicious pound cake with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a special occasion, consider drizzling a lemon glaze over the top or serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake is also delicious when enjoyed with Methodist Munchies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it slightly chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Harris' Pound Cake contains roughly 669 calories, with 9g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
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 fat instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute Crisco with unsalted butter or margarine, which will add a different flavor profile to the cake. However, keep in mind that using butter may result in a denser texture, so beating it well until fluffy is essential.
What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
If your pound cake sinks in the middle, it may be due to overmixing or not baking it long enough. Ensure you mix just until combined and check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Don't open the oven door too early to prevent temperature drops.
How can I enhance the flavor of the pound cake?
You can enhance the flavor by adding citrus zest, like lemon or orange, to the batter. Additionally, try incorporating spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm touch. For a unique twist, consider using some of the flavors from Acorn Squash A La Stacey for an unexpected flavor depth.
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).