Cream cheese pound cake recipe

Pound cakes have long been cherished for their dense, moist texture and buttery flavor. Among the many variations, the cream cheese pound cake stands out for its rich taste and velvety crumb. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, mastering this classic dessert is sure to elevate your baking skills. Follow this detailed guide to create a perfect cream cheese pound cake that will impress friends and family alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 package (8 oz or 226g) cream cheese, softened
• 3 cups (600g) granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or bundt pan to ensure easy release of the cake after baking.
2. Prepare ingredients: Ensure the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are all at room temperature for smooth blending.

Step 2: Mixing the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. This may take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
2. Gradually add sugar to the creamed mixture, continuing to beat until light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter texture.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures each egg is fully incorporated into the batter.

Step 3: Incorporating Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
2. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cake.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Baking

1. Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto the rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature helps them blend smoothly and evenly into the batter.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake.
• Proper Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking for doneness around the 1-hour mark. The cake should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve slices of cream cheese pound cake plain for a classic treat, or with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea to highlight the cake’s rich, buttery taste.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of baking a cream cheese pound cake is not only satisfying but also a delicious way to impress your loved ones. With its rich flavor and moist texture, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations. Follow these steps and tips to create a cream cheese pound cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!