Are you ready to bake a cake that's as impressive as it is easy? Pound cake, with its rich, dense texture, is a timeless classic. But let's be honest, sometimes a little extra something is needed to take this delicious dessert from good to unforgettable. That's where a simple yet elegant glaze comes in! This recipe focuses on creating the perfect pound cake, followed by a delightful glaze that transforms it into a show-stopping treat. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious dessert. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of homemade cooking recipes and healthy meal options, making it an ideal quick dinner idea if you're craving something sweet.
Ingredients:
For the Pound Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
Baking the Pound Cake:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful cake release.
-
Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
-
Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and creating a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results.
-
Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix.
-
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Glaze:
-
Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or lemon juice), and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Start with 2 tablespoons of liquid and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency. You want a glaze that's pourable but not too runny.
-
Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides.
Tips for the Best Pound Cake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing and a lighter cake.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just 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 done.
- Cool Completely: Allowing the cake to cool completely before glazing prevents the glaze from melting.
Variations:
- Citrus Glaze: Replace the milk with lemon juice for a bright, citrusy glaze.
- Chocolate Glaze: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the powdered sugar mixture for a rich chocolate glaze.
- Spiced Glaze: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 20-25g Sugar: Approximately 25-30g
This delicious pound cake, elevated by a simple yet effective glaze, is perfect for any occasion. It’s a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family, proving that even the simplest recipes can deliver extraordinary results. Enjoy!