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Cream Cheese Pound Cake: A Rich and Decadent Treat
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a classic dessert that’s rich, moist, and utterly irresistible. With its velvety texture and buttery flavor, it’s the perfect cake for any occasion—whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it with afternoon tea, or indulging in a slice as a sweet treat. Best of all, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
I’ve made this cake countless times, and it’s always a hit. My family loves how it’s dense yet tender, and it’s become a go-to dessert for birthdays and holidays.
Ingredients and Why They Matter
- Butter: Three sticks of butter provide richness and a tender crumb.
- Cream cheese: An 8-ounce block adds moisture and a subtle tanginess.
- Sugar: Three cups of sugar sweeten the cake and help create a golden crust.
- Eggs: Six eggs bind the batter and add moisture.
- Flour: All-purpose flour gives the cake structure.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube or bundt pan to prevent sticking.
- Step 2:
- Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 sticks of softened butter and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3:
- Add the Sugar: Gradually beat in 3 cups of sugar, mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 4:
- Incorporate the Eggs: Add 6 eggs, two at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Step 5:
- Mix in the Flour and Vanilla: Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing just until combined. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Step 6:
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 7:
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve!
I love how the cream cheese adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Pound Cake
- Use a tube or bundt pan: These pans help the cake bake evenly and create a beautiful shape.
- Check for doneness: Start checking the cake at 1 hour and 20 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Add a glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
- Experiment with flavors: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with fun additions:
- Fresh berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fresh contrast.
- Whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Caramel or chocolate sauce: Drizzle over the cake for a decadent touch.
- Powdered sugar: Dust the top with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap the cake (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 4 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations to Try
- Lemon pound cake: Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest and 1/4 cup of lemon juice to the batter for a citrusy twist.
- Chocolate chip pound cake: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise.
- Almond pound cake: Substitute 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Marble pound cake: Swirl in 1/2 cup of chocolate batter for a marbled effect.
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Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a timeless dessert that’s sure to impress. It’s rich, moist, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a special event or just because, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
- Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
- → Can I freeze this cake?
- Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- → Can I add flavor variations?
- Yes, try adding lemon zest, almond extract, or a glaze for extra flavor.
- → Can I use a different pan?
- Yes, a bundt pan or loaf pan will work, but adjust the baking time as needed.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.