Are you craving a moist, tender, and utterly delicious pound cake that’s surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Pioneer Woman-inspired pound cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or simply a delightful treat any day of the week. It’s a testament to the fact that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be truly exceptional. This recipe delivers on flavor and texture, offering a classic pound cake experience with minimal effort. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Work is Key
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan. This prevents sticking and ensures a clean release of your beautiful cake. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra security.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients Unite
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout the batter.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is where a stand mixer shines, but you can achieve the same result with a hand mixer or even good old-fashioned elbow grease! The goal is to incorporate as much air as possible, resulting in a lighter cake.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
Step 5: Alternate Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; don't overmix. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake.
Step 6: Vanilla Infusion
Stir in the vanilla extract. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Down and Enjoy
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Slice and savor every bite of this classic dessert.
Cooking Tips for Pound Cake Success:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using softened butter and room temperature eggs ensures proper emulsification and a smoother batter.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or wooden skewer to check for doneness. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfectly done.
Variations:
- Lemon Pound Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright citrus flavor.
- Chocolate Pound Cake: Add 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Glazed Pound Cake: Make a simple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy this delicious and easy pound cake recipe, perfect for any occasion! Remember to share your baking creations with us!