There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked cream cheese pound cake wafting through your home. The rich, buttery scent mingles with a hint of sweet vanilla, making it almost impossible to resist sneaking a slice before it cools. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that transports you back to cozy family gatherings and warm-hearted celebrations.
Picture this: you’re at a family reunion, and there’s Grandma in the corner, her apron dusted with flour, proudly presenting her signature cream cheese pound cake. Everyone gathers around, eyes wide and mouths watering. It’s the kind of cake that brings people together, evoking laughter, stories, and second helpings. Now, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to be just as memorable.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cream cheese pound cake is incredibly easy to whip up in just one bowl
- Its moist texture and rich flavor will make your taste buds dance with joy
- Visually appealing with its golden crust, this cake looks great on any dessert table
- Perfect for birthdays or just because you deserve a treat!
I remember the first time I baked this cream cheese pound cake for my friends. Their smiles said it all as they devoured slice after slice, leaving me wondering if I’d need to bake another one!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness and achieve that rich flavor.
Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for extra moisture and that signature tangy flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar will provide the sweetness needed while contributing to the cake’s tender texture.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs help bind ingredients together, providing structure and richness.
All-Purpose Flour: Sifted flour ensures a light texture that contributes to the cake’s perfect crumb.
Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; use fresh baking powder for best results.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor; skip imitation varieties for a more authentic taste.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors in the cake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make cream cheese pound cake
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks later.
Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and cream cheese. Beat them together until light and fluffy; you want this mixture to feel like clouds!
Add Sugar Gradually: Slowly add granulated sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until it becomes pale and creamy. You’ll know it’s ready when it resembles sweet buttercream frosting.
Incorporate Eggs One at a Time: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step is crucial as it helps create an airy texture in your pound cake.
Sift Dry Ingredients Together: In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while mixing gently—this keeps the batter light!
Add Vanilla Extract Last: Finally, mix in pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Your batter should smell heavenly by now; resist diving in face-first!
Bake for approximately 60-70 minutes or until golden brown on top; a toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center. Let it cool before slicing because patience really does pay off here!
Now you have not only made an incredible cream cheese pound cake but also created memories worth savoring (hopefully without too many crumbs on the floor). Enjoy every moment as you share this delightful treat with friends or keep it all to yourself—no judgment here!
You Must Know
- Cream cheese pound cake is rich, dense, and moist
- The cream cheese adds a delightful tang that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness
- It’s perfect for celebrations or just a cozy day at home with coffee and a good book
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make your cream cheese pound cake shine, blend the butter and cream cheese well first, then gradually add sugar before incorporating eggs and flour. This sequence ensures that your cake rises beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap vanilla extract for almond or lemon zest for a zesty twist. You can also fold in chocolate chips or berries to elevate your cream cheese pound cake into something extraordinary.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze; simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending; it makes all the difference in texture
- Avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep the cake tender, and check for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean
There was that one time I baked this cream cheese pound cake for my best friend’s birthday. Her delight as she took the first bite made me realize how simple ingredients could create joy and fond memories.
FAQ
What can I serve with cream cheese pound cake?
Serve it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but you may lose some richness; full-fat gives the best flavor and texture.
How long will the cake last in the fridge?
In the fridge, your cream cheese pound cake will stay fresh for about a week when stored properly.
Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Cream cheese pound cake is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. Its rich, buttery flavor combined with the tang of cream cheese creates a moist and tender cake that melts in your mouth. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it an ideal dessert for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Whether served plain or adorned with fresh fruit and whipped cream, this cake promises to bring smiles and sweet memories to every table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add sugar while beating the mixture until pale and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider substituting vanilla extract with almond extract or lemon zest. Elevate your cake by folding in chocolate chips or fresh berries before baking.
