When it comes to delightful baked goods, few can compete with the rich, buttery flavor of a well-made pound cake. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for a Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake that is simply irresistible. This cake strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and richness, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special event, or just craving something delicious, this pound cake will surely impress.
The addition of cream cheese makes this cake incredibly moist and gives it a lovely tang, while the vanilla adds a warm aroma that will fill your kitchen as it bakes. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need!
Gather Your Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake Ingredients
Before you embark on this baking adventure, make sure you have these basic yet essential ingredients at hand:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened (225 g)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225 g)
- 3 cups granulated sugar (600 g)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Once you have all your ingredients ready, we can move on to the fun part: baking!
Step-by-Step Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your delightful pound cake:
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Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for a slow, even bake.
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Cream the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Add the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the mixing bowl. Mix well after each addition to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
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Stir in the vanilla: Once the eggs are incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract for that lovely flavor.
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Prepare the dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the baking powder and salt evenly throughout the flour.
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Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
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Pour and bake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured bundt pan. Bake in your preheated oven for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool down: Once baked, let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake
This Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake is perfect on its own, but there are so many ways to elevate its presentation and flavors:
- Slice and enjoy: Serve slices of the pound cake plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Add toppings: Consider pairing it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a dessert that’s to die for.
- Pair with beverages: This cake goes wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It’s a perfect treat for brunch or afternoon tea!
Helpful Tricks for Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend more easily into a smooth mixture.
- Don’t rush the baking: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for the best texture and flavor. Patience truly pays off!
- Storage tips: If you have leftovers (which might be a challenge!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake FAQs
Q: Can I use a different flavor extract?
A: Absolutely! While vanilla is classic, almond extract or lemon extract can also add a lovely twist to the flavor of your pound cake.
Q: What is the best way to store this cake?
A: Keep your pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze it.
Q: Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
A: Yes, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture!
Now that you have the perfect recipe, I invite you to bake your very own Cream Cheese Vanilla Pound Cake. It’s a delicious indulgence that everyone will love! Happy baking!