Poor Man'S Pound Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Poor Man's Pound Cake is a moist, rich dessert with a tender crumb, featuring vanilla and optional lemon or almond flavors. Its simplicity and affordability make it perfect for everyday occasions or when you crave a comforting homemade treat. Ideal for sharing with family and friends.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. flour
  • 1 1/2 c. sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 sticks margarine
  • 1/2 c. milk
  • 1 Tbsp. baking powder
  • 1 Tbsp. vanilla
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon or almond extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Do not preheat the oven.
  2. Place all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Beat all together at highest speed for 10 minutes.
  4. Pour batter into an ungreased tube pan.
  5. Place in the oven, then set the temperature to 350°F.
  6. Bake approximately 1 hour.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider sifting the flour before adding it to the mixing bowl. You can substitute half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier version. If you prefer a different flavor, try using orange extract instead of lemon or almond. Remember to beat the batter well for the full 10 minutes to incorporate air, which is crucial for a fluffy cake.

Serving Suggestions

This Poor Man's Pound Cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delicious dessert. It pairs beautifully with Egg-Less Nog for a cozy treat. You can also dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for added sweetness.

Storage & Reheating

Once cooled, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Poor Man'S Pound Cake contains roughly 646 calories, with 10g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 688mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).

646 kcal 32% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.8g 20% DV
Total Fat 7.7g 10% DV
Carbs 109.3g 40% DV
Fiber 6.1g 22% DV
Sugar 8.1g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 688.4mg 30% DV
Potassium 745.8mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 146mg 49% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 42.6mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 44.5mg 49% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 450mg 35% DV
Iron 4.3mg 24% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 butter instead of margarine?

Yes, you can substitute butter for margarine in this recipe. Just keep in mind that butter will give the cake a richer flavor and slightly different texture. Make sure to use the same amount, two sticks, for optimal results.

What can I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing or not incorporating enough air. For next time, ensure you beat the mixture at high speed for the full 10 minutes and avoid overpacking the flour when measuring. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh to ensure proper leavening.

Can I add fruit to the cake batter?

Absolutely! Adding fruit like diced apples or blueberries can enhance the flavor and moisture of the cake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as added moisture can affect the cooking process. Toss the fruit in a bit of flour before mixing to help prevent it from sinking.

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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