Twenty Minute Pound Cake

Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

A rich, buttery pound cake with a dense crumb and classic vanilla flavor, perfect for special occasions or a comforting treat with coffee or tea.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 sticks margarine or butter
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (unsifted)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together and beat for 20 minutes.
  2. Pour the batter into a lightly greased and floured tube pan.
  3. Do not preheat the oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
  4. Cool before removing from the pan.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider using high-quality vanilla extract or adding a touch of lemon zest. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter is a perfect substitute for a richer taste. For a lighter version, you can replace half of the butter with applesauce. Be sure to mix the batter thoroughly for a fluffy texture, as the 20-minute beating is crucial for incorporating air.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of the pound cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for a simple yet elegant dessert. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful treat. You can also enjoy it alongside coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For a twist, try it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or as a base for a fruit dessert like Fruit And Brownie Pizza.

Storage & Reheating

Once cooled, wrap the pound cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw at room temperature and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Twenty Minute Pound Cake contains roughly 903 calories, with 16g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1559mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).

903 kcal 45% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.1g 32% DV
Total Fat 4.1g 5% DV
Carbs 147.5g 54% DV
Fiber 6.4g 23% DV
Sugar 12.9g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1559.2mg 68% DV
Potassium 605.6mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 77.6mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 23.6mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 26.1mg 29% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 388.5mg 30% DV
Iron 7.3mg 41% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for a lighter texture, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the cake's density. If you're looking for gluten-free options, try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.

What should I do if the cake sinks in the middle?

A sinking cake often indicates underbaking or too much liquid in the batter. Ensure you're measuring ingredients accurately, especially the flour and milk. Checking the cake for doneness with a toothpick or skewer is essential; it should come out clean when inserted in the center.

Can I add mix-ins to the batter?

Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for extra flavor and texture. Just be cautious not to overload the batter, as this can affect the cake's rise and structure.

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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