Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

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Introduction

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake, a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This moist and tender cake is infused with the warm flavors of vanilla and buttermilk, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and tang. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, it transforms this already delectable cake into a showstopper that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve it at a gathering, enjoy it with coffee, or celebrate a special occasion, this pound cake will be a favorite for years to come.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cake

  • Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225g), softened to room temperature
  • Granulated sugar: 2 cups (400g)
  • Large eggs: 4, room temperature
  • Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
  • All-purpose flour: 3 cups (375g)
  • Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Baking soda: ½ teaspoon
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml), room temperature

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

  • Cream cheese: 4 ounces (113g), softened
  • Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (30g), softened
  • Powdered sugar: 1-2 cups (120-240g), sifted
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Milk or cream: 2-3 tablespoons, to thin (if necessary)

Optional Ingredients

  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange: for added flavor
  • Chopped nuts: ½ cup (e.g., walnuts or pecans) for texture

Instructions

Preparing the Pound Cake

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch (25cm) Bundt pan or tube pan.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in the lemon or orange zest and nuts.

Baking the Cake

  1. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Cream Cheese Glaze

  1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
  3. Thin if Necessary: If the glaze is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Glazing the Cake

  1. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Serving

Slice the Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake into wedges and serve. It’s delicious on its own or paired with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream.

Tips for Success

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and running off.

Recommendations

  • Storing: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze the cake (without glaze) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding different extracts, such as almond or coconut, for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

Enjoy this delightful Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat during the week! 🍰✨

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