Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe: A Decadent Delight
Are you ready to bake a cake that's as luxurious as it is delicious? Look no further than this Cream Cheese Pound Cake recipe. This recipe isn't just about throwing ingredients together; it's about creating a moist, tender, and intensely flavorful cake that will leave your taste buds singing. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying a sweet tooth craving. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This cream cheese pound cake recipe requires simple ingredients, readily available at your local grocery store. Gathering them beforehand ensures a smooth baking process.
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For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
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For the Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Baking this cream cheese pound cake is a journey, and each step contributes to the final masterpiece. Follow these instructions closely for optimal results.
1. Preparing the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, leading to a lighter cake.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the softened cream cheese and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix! Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake.
2. Baking the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it!
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from collapsing.
3. Making the Glaze (Optional):
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or cream until smooth. Add more milk or cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Tips for Cream Cheese Pound Cake Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for optimal mixing and emulsification.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten and results in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Proper Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions:
This cream cheese pound cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- A dusting of powdered sugar
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake recipe is a surefire way to impress your friends and family. Its rich flavor and moist texture make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy baking and savor every bite!
