Are you craving a comforting, warm, and incredibly flavorful dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This cinnamon pound cake recipe is the perfect answer for those busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It's the epitome of homemade cooking, delivering a moist, tender crumb bursting with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon. Get ready to experience the joy of baking this delicious dish!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Bliss Made Easy
Let's get baking! Follow these straightforward steps for a perfectly baked cinnamon pound cake.
Step 1: Prep Work is Key
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your cake releases easily and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Step 3: Adding the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 5: Gently Folding Everything Together
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.
Step 6: Baking to Perfection
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.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy.
Tips and Tricks for Pound Cake Perfection
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out with moist crumbs, bake for a few more minutes.
Variations to Delight Your Taste Buds
- Lemon Cinnamon Pound Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a zesty twist.
- Spiced Apple Pound Cake: Fold in ½ cup of chopped apples and a sprinkle of allspice.
- Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Pound Cake: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a delightful contrast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - Approximate)
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. Always check your specific ingredients for the most accurate data. Expect a serving to contain approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Protein: 4-5g
This classic cinnamon pound cake recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect quick dinner idea dessert or a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade cooking!