Simple Pound Cake
A rich, buttery pound cake with a subtle lemon and vanilla flavor, perfect for teatime, special occasions, or as a simple dessert enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually add flour, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla and lemon extract until combined.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake at 325°F for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. If you don't have cake flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour by removing 2 tablespoons per cup and adding cornstarch. Don't overmix after adding flour, as this can lead to a dense cake. For added flavor, consider incorporating citrus zest or spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of pound cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or whipped cream for a delightful dessert. For a brunch option, consider serving it alongside the Pineapple Dairy Salad. A warm cup of tea or coffee complements this cake perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Pound Cake contains roughly 497 calories, with 6g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Make sure to use a baking margarine for the best results. However, for the richest flavor, butter is recommended.
What can I do if my cake is too dense?
If your pound cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly and add eggs at room temperature. Also, check that you measure flour accurately, as too much can lead to a heavy cake.
How can I add more flavor to my pound cake?
To enhance the flavor, you can add extracts like almond or orange in addition to vanilla and lemon. Incorporating zest from lemons or limes also adds a fresh flavor. If you enjoy chocolate, consider folding in cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
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).