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Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

A Classic Dessert with a Rich, Buttery Flavor

A Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake is a timeless dessert that’s simple yet indulgent. This cake boasts a rich, buttery texture, a moist crumb, and a delicate vanilla flavor that pairs perfectly with a tangy cream cheese glaze. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family gathering, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake, including key ingredients and their roles, preparation time, step-by-step instructions, expert baking tips, creative twists, presentation ideas, and FAQs.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Cake Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake while keeping the crumb tender.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture, enhancing the classic pound cake texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a soft, moist crumb.
Eggs – Give the cake structure and stability while contributing to its moist texture.
Buttermilk – Keeps the cake soft and moist while adding a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses the cake with warm, sweet vanilla flavor.
Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise and creates a lighter texture.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Cream Cheese Glaze Ingredients

Cream Cheese – Adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet cake.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and creates a smooth consistency.
Vanilla Extract – Complements the cake’s vanilla flavor.
Milk – Helps thin the glaze for a pourable consistency.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 75-85 minutes

Ingredients ” Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake “

For the Cake:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
6 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
Start and end with the dry ingredients to keep the batter smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until well combined.
Adjust the milk quantity to achieve the desired pourable consistency.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cake.
Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures even mixing and a smooth batter.
Do Not Overmix – Overworking the batter can lead to a dense cake.
Check for Doneness – Every oven varies, so start checking at 55 minutes.
Cool Completely Before Glazing – A warm cake will cause the glaze to melt and become too thin.
For a Softer Crumb – Sift the flour before measuring to aerate it.

Presentation Tips

Garnish with Fresh Berries – Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries add color and freshness.
Dust with Powdered Sugar – A light dusting enhances the cake’s elegance.
Add Toasted Nuts – Chopped pecans or almonds provide crunch and contrast.
Serve with Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream complements the flavors beautifully.

Creative Twists

Lemon Buttermilk Pound Cake – Add zest of one lemon and replace vanilla with lemon extract.
Almond Infused Cake – Use almond extract instead of vanilla and top with slivered almonds.
Chocolate Swirl Variation – Swirl in melted dark chocolate for a marbled effect.
Spiced Pound Cake – Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist.
Coconut Delight – Fold in ½ cup shredded coconut for added texture and tropical flavor.

Pro Tip for Customization

For an ultra-moist cake, brush the warm pound cake with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water, infused with vanilla. This enhances moisture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is my Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can cause dryness. Always measure flour accurately and check for doneness early.

2. Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

Yes, buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness. If unavailable, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

3. How should I store the cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

4. Can I freeze Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake?

Yes! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

5. Can I make this cake without a bundt pan?

Absolutely! A loaf pan or 9×13-inch pan works, though baking times may vary.

Conclusion

A Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake is a dessert that never goes out of style. Its rich, buttery flavor and moist texture make it a favorite for all occasions. Paired with a luscious cream cheese glaze, this cake is both simple and indulgent. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of classic comfort!