Pound Cake for a Classic Delight

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Introduction:
Pound Cake is a timeless dessert known for its rich, buttery flavor and dense yet tender crumb. It’s a classic that never goes out of style, perfect for any occasion from afternoon tea to holiday celebrations. This traditional recipe is straightforward and relies on a few simple ingredients to create a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of glaze.

Ingredients:

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

Optional Additions:

  • Zest of one lemon or orange for a citrus flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for a nutty hint
  • Fresh berries or a fruit compote for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a 10-inch bundt pan.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which helps achieve the cake’s light texture.

4. Add the Eggs:

  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.

5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:

  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Add the Flavorings:

  • Stir in the vanilla extract (and almond extract or citrus zest if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Pour and Bake:

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes (50-60 minutes for a bundt pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.

8. Cool the Cake:

  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Serve:

  • Once cooled, slice the pound cake and serve. Enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, fresh berries, or a simple glaze.

Tips for Success:

  • Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting to make them easier to mix and to achieve a smooth batter.
  • Do not overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense, tough cake.
  • For a perfect texture, measure the flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife rather than scooping it directly from the bag.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400 per slice (based on 12 slices)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 18-20g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 11-13g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 100-120mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 150-200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1g
  • Sugars: Approximately 25-30g
  • Protein: Approximately 5-6g

Recommendation:
This classic Pound Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat, or dress it up with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a more elegant presentation. Its rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb make it a crowd-pleaser that you’ll come back to time and time again. Enjoy this timeless dessert and share it with loved ones for a taste of classic delight.

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