Introduction to Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Cream cheese pound cake is a delightful classic that never fails to impress. What makes this cake the ultimate homemade treat? For starters, the cream cheese adds an irresistible richness and tanginess that transforms this simple dessert into something truly special. Its dense yet moist texture means it's perfect for savoring with your morning coffee or as a sweet ending to dinner.
This cake is a staple in many households, and with good reason! The combination of butter, sugar, and eggs creates a wonderfully rich base, while the cream cheese ensures that every slice is moist and tender. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family gathering or a casual weeknight indulgence, this cream cheese pound cake is sure to win over hearts and taste buds alike.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, sprinkle it with powdered sugar, or jazz it up with a decadent glaze or fresh fruit. Trust me; once you master this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire! Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create your very own cream cheese pound cake.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Essential ingredients for a delicious cream cheese pound cake
When it comes to whipping up a scrumptious cream cheese pound cake, having the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon table salt
These ingredients come together to create a rich, moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Special notes on ingredient quality
Not all ingredients are created equal! For the best results, opt for high-quality butter and cream cheese, which contribute to the cake's dense texture and flavor. Real vanilla extract, rather than imitation, elevates the taste significantly. And always sift your flour for a lighter consistency. If you’re unsure about flour measurements, check out this handy guide on how to measure flour for accuracy. Using fresh, quality items will ensure that your pound cake is moist and utterly delicious!
Step-by-step Preparation of Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Making a delightful cream cheese pound cake is a fantastic way to showcase your baking skills while treating friends and family to something deliciously moist and rich. Follow these steps for an impeccable cake that will surely impress everyone at the table.
Preheat and prep your pan
First things first! Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This lower temperature is key to achieving that tender texture we love in a pound cake. While the oven warms up, grab your 12-cup bundt or tube pan. Grease it thoroughly with butter and dust it with flour—this will help your cake slide out easily once it’s baked. Make sure to tap out the excess flour to prevent any clumping.
Cream together butter and cream cheese
Once your pan is ready, it’s time for the fun part—mixing! In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 8 oz of softened cream cheese. Using an electric mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes smooth and creamy. This creaming step is crucial because it helps to incorporate air into the batter, making your cake delightfully fluffy.
Add sugar and eggs gradually
Next, it's time to add some sweetness. Gradually mix in 3 cups of granulated sugar into your creamy mixture, still using your mixer on high speed. This should take about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Now, this step requires a bit of patience: add six lightly beaten large eggs one at a time. Stir until well combined, and then give each egg a quick 30-second mixing time at medium-high speed. This ensures that each egg blends seamlessly into your batter.
Mix in dry ingredients
While the wet ingredients are coming together beautifully, let's shift focus to the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of table salt. Slowly add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing until everything is fully incorporated. Your batter should now be smooth, silky, and ready for the oven—how exciting!
Pour and bake
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 35 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool and invert
Once the baking time is up, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This resting phase lets it firm up a bit. Carefully invert the cake onto a cooling rack and let it cool completely before serving.
This cream cheese pound cake is luscious on its own, but consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a delightful glaze for that extra touch. Enjoy!
Variations on Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Lemon-Infused Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Brighten up your classic cream cheese pound cake with a zesty lemon twist! Add the zest of one lemon and a splash of lemon juice to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor. This variation is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, providing a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Serve it with a light lemon glaze for an extra touch!
Seasonal Spice Cream Cheese Pound Cake
As the seasons change, so can your cream cheese pound cake! Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a cozy autumn flavor. A dash of pumpkin puree can also transform this cake into a festive fall treat. Top with cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a comforting dessert that’s sure to impress.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients
For the best cream cheese pound cake, ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This allows for a smoother blending, helping to create that perfectly creamy batter. Room temperature ingredients also trap air more effectively, resulting in a fluffier texture.
How to Avoid Common Baking Pitfalls
Baking can be tricky, but there are a few simple tricks to avoid mishaps:
- Don’t skip the greasing: Make sure to thoroughly grease and flour your bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Check doneness: Use a wooden skewer to test for doneness; it should come out clean or with slight moist crumbs.
- Cool correctly: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting, which helps in maintaining its shape.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can achieve a moist, delicious cream cheese pound cake every time!
Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Dressed up with glazes or toppings
Your cream cheese pound cake is deliciously delightful on its own, but a little extra love can take it to new heights. Consider drizzling a warm vanilla glaze or rich chocolate ganache over the top for a decadent finish. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a charming touch, while a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes each slice feel like a celebration. Fresh seasonal berries are not just tasty— they also bring a pop of color that’s irresistible!
Pairing options for an enhanced experience
To elevate your cream cheese pound cake experience, think about pairing it with warm beverages. A nice brew of coffee or a hot cup of tea can create a perfect afternoon treat. For a more festive vibe, serve it alongside honeyed herbal teas or sparkling juices. You might even want to whip up a simple fruit compote to jazz up your slice—it's easy to prepare and adds a bright, fruity contrast that complements the cake beautifully.
Time Breakdown for Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Preparation Time
Getting ready to bake this cream cheese pound cake won't take long at all! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together. Just enough time to sip on some coffee and enjoy the moment!
Cooking Time
The baking process takes a bit longer, around 1 hour 35 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. This low-and-slow method ensures that your cake is wonderfully moist and tender. Patience truly is a virtue here!
Total Time
In total, you're looking at about 1 hour 50 minutes from start to finish. It may seem like a long time, but trust me, the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it all worth it. Plus, you’ll have a decadent dessert ready to impress your friends and family!
For additional guidance, check out helpful resources like Serious Eats for tips on achieving the perfect pound cake texture.
Nutritional Facts for Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Calories per Serving
Each slice of this delightful cream cheese pound cake contains approximately 407 calories. This makes it a rich treat you can enjoy during special occasions or when you want to indulge a little.
Breakdown of Macronutrients
The macronutrient composition per serving is as follows:
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g (with saturated fat around 11g)
For those watching their intake, it’s beneficial to remember that this cake delivers a satisfying taste, but moderation is key! You can check for further details on healthy baking alternatives from resources like the American Heart Association.
Knowing these numbers can help you plan your meals better while still getting to enjoy this classic dessert!
FAQs about Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Why is cream cheese used in pound cake?
Cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste and texture of the cake. This ingredient also helps create a beautifully moist and dense crumb. The fat content in cream cheese contributes to a luscious mouthfeel, making each bite of your cream cheese pound cake uniquely delightful!
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make swaps, here are some suggestions:
- Butter: You can use margarine, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
- Eggs: Try using flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
- Flour: If you don’t have all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour can work, but it may change the cake’s texture.
Be adventurous, but remember, substitutions can sometimes lead to different results.
How do I store leftover pound cake?
To keep your cream cheese pound cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy the next day!
Conclusion on Cream Cheese Pound Cake
In conclusion, this cream cheese pound cake is a delightful treat that balances rich flavor and moist texture. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening at home, it’s versatile enough to enjoy plain or dressed up with toppings. Try it today and experience its magic for yourself!
Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Equipment
- Bundt pan or tube pan
- Mixing Bowls
- electric mixer
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon table salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300F (150C) and thoroughly grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan. Tap out excess flour and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and cream cheese and use an electric mixer to beat on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, add sugar and mix until light and fluffy.
- With the mixer on high speed, add one egg at a time, stirring until completely combined after each addition, then beat for 30 seconds on medium-high speed.
- Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring until completely combined. Beat for another minute.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 1 hour 35 minutes - 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting onto a cooling rack.
- Allow to cool before serving, optionally dress with powdered sugar, vanilla glaze, chocolate ganache or whipped cream and fresh berries.
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