Black People’s Pound Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a cake that’s both nostalgic and delicious, this pound cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s not just any dessert—this pound cake is a celebration of flavor and tradition. The combination of butter, shortening, and sugar gives it a richness you won’t find in most cakes, while the vanilla extract brings a delightful aromatic depth. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dessert that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup shortening
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or a regular round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 12 slices, depending on how thick you cut each serving. It takes approximately 15 minutes to prep and 1 hour and 15 minutes to bake, so in total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

• Flavor Variations: You can add different extracts to change the flavor, such as almond, lemon, or coconut, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Add-ins: For some added texture, fold in chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or fresh berries into the batter before baking.

Storage/Reheating

To store, keep your pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or warm the entire cake in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pound cake without shortening?

Yes, you can substitute the shortening with more butter, but the texture might be slightly different. The shortening helps create a softer, more moist cake.

2. Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour is the best choice for this recipe, you could use cake flour for a lighter, more delicate crumb.

3. How can I tell when the pound cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.

4. Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk, though the flavor and texture might be slightly different.

5. Can I freeze the pound cake batter?

It’s not ideal to freeze the batter, as the texture may change. However, you can freeze the fully baked and cooled cake for later enjoyment.

6. Can I bake this cake in a different pan?

Yes, you can use a 9×13 inch baking pan or a loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly. The cake may bake faster in a smaller pan.

7. What can I serve this cake with?

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a cup of coffee or tea.

8. Why is my pound cake dense?

A dense pound cake can result from overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature and mix gently.

9. Can I add frosting to this cake?

While the cake is flavorful enough on its own, you can top it with a light glaze or frosting, such as cream cheese frosting or a simple powdered sugar glaze.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend has xanthan gum or add it separately to help the cake’s structure.

Conclusion

This Black People’s Pound Cake is not only a nod to Southern traditions but also a delicious treat that will make any occasion special. With its rich flavor and moist texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a glaze, or alongside some fresh fruit, this cake is a timeless dessert that everyone will love.