Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this pound cake because it combines the best of both worlds: a light, fluffy texture thanks to the buttermilk, and a rich, decadent taste from the cream cheese glaze. This dessert is incredibly easy to make, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d find at a high-end bakery. The cake is versatile too, perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to celebrations.

Ingredients

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

For the Pound Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or spray with nonstick baking spray.
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 sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in alternating batches with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Glaze: While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Gradually add milk until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
7. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Slice and serve!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Flavored Glaze: You can infuse the glaze with lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Add-ins: Feel free to fold in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free pound cake.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake without the glaze for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter for this recipe?

It’s best to use unsalted butter as the recipe already includes salt. However, if you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of additional salt.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

3. Can I use a different type of pan?

If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can use a 9×13-inch rectangular baking pan. Just reduce the baking time slightly.

4. Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

While buttermilk gives the cake a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added to the milk to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

5. How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

6. Can I use a different flavor for the glaze?

Absolutely! You can try adding cocoa powder for a chocolate glaze or other flavor extracts like almond or lemon.

7. Can I add fruit to this pound cake?

Yes, you can fold in fruit like blueberries or sliced strawberries for a fruity twist.

8. Is it necessary to sift the flour?

Sifting the flour helps to create a lighter cake and ensures the ingredients are properly mixed.

9. How can I make the glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk or add extra powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

10. How long does the glaze last?

The glaze should be used right after making it. However, if stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to 3 days. Just reheat before using.

Conclusion

This Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is an irresistible dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With its light, fluffy texture and creamy, sweet glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special gathering or enjoying a slice with a cup of tea, this cake is a true treat that everyone will love.

Print