Our Favorite Pound Cake
Our Favorite Pound Cake offers a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of almond and mace, creating a moist, tender crumb perfect for any occasion. Its classic design makes it suitable for dessert tables, teatime treats, or gifting. The simple ingredients and traditional method ensure a delightful baking experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend sugar, salt, and mace in a large mixing bowl. Cream the sugar mixture and butter until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and almond extracts. Beat eggs into the mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Alternately add parts of flour and milk to the creamed mixture, blending well after each addition.
- Turn the batter into a greased and floured 10-inch tube pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
- Allow the cake to cool for 5 minutes in the pan. Turn out onto a cooling rack.
- Cool thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter pound cake, you can substitute half of the butter with applesauce. If you don't have mace, nutmeg is a great alternative. Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a fluffy texture. Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this pound cake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Fabulous Fruit Dip for a refreshing contrast. You can also enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a microwave for a few seconds or enjoy it straight from the freezer for a cold treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Our Favorite Pound Cake contains roughly 270 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 extract instead of almond?
Yes, you can substitute almond extract with an equal amount of hazelnut or even coconut extract for a different flavor profile. Just remember that each extract has its unique taste, so choose one that complements your palate.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking cake can occur for a few reasons, such as overmixing or underbaking. Ensure you mix the batter just until combined and check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to make sure it's accurate. If the cake sinks, it may still taste good, so don't be discouraged!
How can I make this recipe more festive?
To make your pound cake more festive, consider adding citrus zest like lemon or orange for a bright flavor. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cake or top it with seasonal fruits or nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
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).