Old-fashioned vanilla pound cake recipe is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time. This delightful treat is known for its rich, dense texture and aromatic vanilla flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the world of old-fashioned vanilla pound cake and learn how to make this timeless dessert.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires only a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The key to achieving that perfect balance of richness and sweetness lies in the careful measurement of each ingredient. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making an old-fashioned vanilla pound cake that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Here’s what you’ll need for the old-fashioned vanilla pound cake recipe:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to make this delicious old-fashioned vanilla pound cake.
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This will ensure that the cake bakes evenly and comes out of the pan easily.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. It’s essential to beat the mixture for at least 5 minutes to ensure that the butter and sugar are fully incorporated.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure that all the ingredients are combined evenly.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract to add a warm, aromatic flavor to the cake.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined and free of any lumps.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating between flour and milk. Start and end with the flour to ensure that the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 65 to 75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
And there you have it – a delicious old-fashioned vanilla pound cake that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy your homemade dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Remember, baking is an art as much as it is a science. Take your time, be patient, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of this classic recipe. Happy baking!
