This Old-Fashioned Pound Cake recipe is a cherished classic passed down through generations. Known for its rich buttery flavor and dense, moist crumb, this cake has stood the test of time as a comforting dessert or afternoon treat. Simple yet elegant, it pairs perfectly with tea, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 70–80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 6g
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Sugars: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 220mg

History of Old-Fashioned Pound Cake

Old-Fashioned Pound Cake dates back to the 18th century and was originally named for its traditional recipe that called for a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. This simple formula made it easy to remember and perfect for home bakers before measuring tools were common. Over time, the recipe has been adapted and refined, but its roots remain a testament to classic American baking traditions passed down through generations.

Texture and Taste Characteristics

The hallmark of an Old-Fashioned Pound Cake is its dense yet tender crumb, rich buttery flavor, and slightly crisp golden crust. The cake is moist without being heavy, offering a satisfying mouthfeel that melts on the tongue. Its flavor is straightforward, relying on quality butter and vanilla extract to shine through without overpowering sweetness, making it an ideal base for additional toppings or accompaniments.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The main ingredients — butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and milk — each play a crucial role in creating the pound cake’s signature texture and flavor. Butter provides richness and moisture, sugar sweetens and helps create a tender crumb, eggs bind ingredients while adding structure, flour gives the cake its body, and milk adds moisture and smoothness. The small addition of baking powder helps with slight leavening, preventing the cake from becoming too dense.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect Old-Fashioned Pound Cake, temperature control is essential. Using room temperature butter and eggs helps create a smooth batter that traps air for lightness. Beating butter and sugar thoroughly until fluffy is key for a tender texture. Alternating dry and wet ingredients during mixing prevents overworking the batter, which could result in a tough cake. Baking at a lower temperature ensures even cooking and prevents the cake from drying out or burning on the edges.

Popular Variations and Add-Ins

Though classic pound cake is delicious on its own, many bakers enjoy adding their twist. Popular variations include incorporating lemon or orange zest for a citrus aroma, folding in fresh berries or chocolate chips, or adding a splash of almond or rum extract for extra depth. Some recipes substitute part of the all-purpose flour with cake flour for an even lighter texture, or swirl in cream cheese for a tangy richness.

Serving Suggestions

Old-Fashioned Pound Cake is incredibly versatile in serving. It can be enjoyed plain with a dusting of powdered sugar, paired with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, or topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. It also makes an excellent base for trifles and layered desserts, absorbing flavors from creams and fruits beautifully.

Pairing with Beverages

This cake pairs well with a wide variety of beverages, enhancing its classic appeal. Hot tea, such as Earl Grey or chamomile, complements its buttery flavor and makes for a perfect afternoon treat. Coffee, especially with a hint of cream, balances the sweetness. For a celebratory touch, a glass of sparkling wine or light dessert wine brings out the cake’s richness without overpowering it.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness of pound cake. It should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When stored at room temperature, it lasts for about 3 to 4 days, but refrigerating can extend its shelf life up to a week. For longer storage, pound cake freezes well—wrap it securely and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Making Pound Cake Ahead of Time

Old-Fashioned Pound Cake is a great make-ahead dessert. It can be baked a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to improve. This makes it convenient for gatherings or special occasions. Just ensure it is well wrapped to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing odors from the refrigerator or freezer.

Nutritional Considerations

While pound cake is a rich dessert with a higher calorie and fat content, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The cake provides a good source of energy and some protein from eggs, but it is also high in sugar and saturated fat from butter. Those looking to reduce calorie intake might try smaller portions or healthier ingredient substitutions, though traditional recipes deliver the authentic taste many seek.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when baking pound cake is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense, tough texture instead of a tender crumb. Another pitfall is baking at too high a temperature, causing the outside to brown excessively while leaving the inside undercooked. Ensuring ingredients are at room temperature and carefully following mixing and baking times will help produce a perfect cake every time.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Pound Cake remains a timeless favorite for its simplicity, rich flavor, and comforting texture. Whether served as a humble snack or dressed up with fresh fruit and whipped cream, it offers a nostalgic taste that brings people together. With its straightforward ingredients and classic preparation, this pound cake is a wonderful recipe to keep in your baking repertoire for any occasion.