Are you craving a moist, tender, and utterly delicious cake but short on time and ingredients? Look no further! This five-ingredient sour cream pound cake is the perfect answer. It's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and boasts a surprisingly rich flavor that will impress even the most discerning dessert lover. This simple recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its easiest and most satisfying!
Ingredients: You'll only need these five simple items!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This simple step ensures your cake releases easily.
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Cream Together Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. A stand mixer works wonders here, but a hand mixer will do just fine. This step is crucial for incorporating air and achieving a tender crumb.
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Add Eggs One at a Time: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly combined.
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Incorporate Sour Cream and Flour: Gently fold in the sour cream until just combined. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
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Bake 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. Keep an eye on it after 50 minutes, as oven temperatures can vary.
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Cool and Serve: 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 (optional) and enjoy!
Tips for Pound Cake Perfection:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming and emulsification. This leads to a smoother, more evenly textured cake.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark. Every oven is different, so visual cues (golden brown top) and the toothpick test are key.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
- Lemon Pound Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Chip Pound Cake: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
- Spiced Pound Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15g
- Cholesterol: 100-120mg
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
This easy recipe for delicious sour cream pound cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. It’s a wonderful addition to any occasion, from a casual weeknight dessert to a more formal gathering. Enjoy this easy and healthy recipe, and don't forget to share it with your friends and family!