Dessert

Pound Cake

Name: Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, optional

Pound cake is the baker's workhorse: a rich, dense loaf that stays moist for days and tastes perfect on its own or with fruit and cream. Traditional ratio of a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour creates deep, buttery flavor and a fine, even crumb.

301calper serving 4gprotein 33gcarbs 17gfat 15min prep 60min cook 12serves

✓ Macros from a nutrition database · per serving · developed by The Delicious Kitchen with AI assistance, not independently kitchen-tested · how we calculate this

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Pound Cake — common questions

Why is my pound cake sunken in the middle?

Your oven is too hot, causing the edges to set before the center cooks; use an oven thermometer to verify 325°F and adjust racks if needed. Also avoid opening the oven door during baking.

Can I make pound cake ahead?

Yes; it is actually better 1–2 days after baking. Wrap the completely cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen cake wrapped at room temperature.

Can I use a loaf pan instead of a bundt pan, or vice versa?

Yes, but adjust baking time: a loaf pan typically requires 55–60 minutes, a bundt pan 60–70 minutes. Use a toothpick to test doneness since cooking times vary by shape.

What is the best way to slice pound cake without it falling apart?

Use a long serrated knife, slice gently with a sawing motion without pressing down, and wipe the blade clean between slices. A pound cake baked 1–2 days ahead will slice more cleanly than one fresh from the oven.

What should I serve with pound cake?

Fresh fruit, berries, whipped cream, lemon curd, jam, or a simple glaze all complement it beautifully. Ice cream or a hot cup of tea are also excellent pairings.

How do I store leftover pound cake?

Wrap cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also wrap tightly in plastic and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.