Moist Vanilla Pound
Moist Vanilla Pound is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This rich, buttery cake brings a delightful flavor that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. Its soft texture and classic vanilla taste make it a favorite in many households. Whether you are celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this moist pound cake will surely impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this cake up in no time.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and vanilla creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone loves.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with frosting, or as a base for your favorite toppings like fruit or whipped cream.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
- Store Well: This cake stays moist for days when stored properly, making it great for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking so much easier. Before you start making your Moist Vanilla Pound, gather these essential items to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf tin
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sieve
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf tin: Provides the perfect shape for your pound cake, ensuring even baking.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
- Sieve: Ensures that your flour is light and free from lumps, which is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture.
Ingredients
For this Moist Vanilla Pound recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
- 225 g or 1 3/4 cups Plain / All purpose flour (sieved)
- 2 Teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 Teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 175 g or 3/4 cup softened butter
- 150 g or 3/4 cups regular sugar
- 2/3 Cup or 150 ml Milk
- 2 Large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 & 1/2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract
How to Make Moist Vanilla Pound
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 170°C (325°F). While it’s warming up, grease and line your loaf tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
Get all your ingredients ready. Sift the flour into a bowl and mix in the baking powder and salt. This step ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 4: Add Eggs Gradually
Slowly add the lightly beaten eggs to the creamed mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed. If it starts to curdle, add a spoonful of flour to stabilize it. Continue until all eggs are incorporated before adding the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add half of the milk along with half of the sieved flour into the mixture. Mix gently on low speed until combined. Then add the remaining milk followed by folding in the remaining flour until fully integrated.
Step 6: Bake Your Cake
Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf tin. Place it in your preheated oven for about one hour to one hour and five minutes.
Step 7: Test for Doneness
To check if your cake is done, insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean when ready. Keep in mind that oven temperatures may vary.
Step 8: Enjoy Some Tea!
While waiting for your cake to bake, why not brew yourself a nice cup of tea?
Step 9: Cool Your Cake
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tin for several minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.
Step 10: Store Properly
Allow your Moist Vanilla Pound to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container to keep its delicious moisture intact.
This traditional vanilla pound cake recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!
How to Serve Moist Vanilla Pound
Serving your Moist Vanilla Pound cake can elevate any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special celebration. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this classic dessert.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of pound cake topped with a medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
Drizzled with Glaze
- A simple vanilla glaze adds sweetness and moisture. Just mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream pairs perfectly with the dense texture of the cake. Consider adding a hint of vanilla for extra flavor.
As an Ice Cream Sundae
- Transform your pound cake into a sundae by layering it with scoops of your favorite ice cream, chocolate sauce, and chopped nuts.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy slices of moist vanilla pound alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Toasted with Butter
- For a rich touch, lightly toast slices of pound cake and spread with butter or your favorite flavored cream cheese.
How to Perfect Moist Vanilla Pound
To achieve the perfect Moist Vanilla Pound, follow these essential tips that will ensure your cake turns out just right every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Let your butter, eggs, and milk sit out before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter for an even bake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.
- Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. An oven that’s too hot can cause cracks.
- Cool in the Pan – Allow the cake to cool in its tin for at least 10 minutes before transferring it. This helps maintain its structure.
- Store Properly – Keep your cooled cake in an airtight container to retain moisture until you’re ready to serve.
- Add Flavor Variations – Experiment by adding lemon zest or almond extract along with the vanilla for exciting twists on classic flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Moist Vanilla Pound
Pairing side dishes with your Moist Vanilla Pound can enhance its delightful flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the pound cake while adding freshness.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that balances the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of pound cake into warm chocolate for an indulgent experience everyone will love.
- Citrus Salad – Bright citrus segments add acidity that contrasts beautifully with the sweet vanilla notes of the pound cake.
- Cream Cheese Frosting – Spread or drizzle cream cheese frosting over slices for an extra layer of flavor and decadence.
- Nut Mix – A selection of toasted nuts adds crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with moistness of the cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Moist Vanilla Pound can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using cold ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs blend better, leading to a smoother batter.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a tender crumb.
- Neglecting to measure accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to achieve the right texture.
- Not testing for doneness: Every oven varies. Always use a skewer to check if your cake is done; it should come out clean.
- Skipping cooling time: Letting the cake cool in the tin prevents it from breaking apart when you transfer it.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep it away from strong odors to maintain its flavor.
Freezing Moist Vanilla Pound
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Moist Vanilla Pound
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Moist Vanilla Pound.
How do you make pound cake moist?
To ensure moisture, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing. Adding milk helps keep it soft.
What does pound cake taste like?
Pound cake has a rich, buttery flavor with vanilla undertones. It’s dense yet tender, making it delightful with coffee or tea.
Why does my pound cake crack on top?
Cracking often happens due to rapid temperature changes or overmixing. Bake at a steady temperature and avoid opening the oven door frequently.
How long should you beat a pound cake?
Beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Add eggs gradually while mixing slowly.
How do you know when a pound cake is done?
Insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Final Thoughts
This Moist Vanilla Pound recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this classic treat will surely bring joy to your table. Give it a try today!
Moist Vanilla Pound
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Moist Vanilla Pound is a delightful dessert that embodies comfort and joy in every bite. This rich, buttery cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home with a cup of tea or coffee. Its tender texture and classic vanilla flavor make it a timeless favorite that will impress family and friends alike. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this pound cake stays moist for days, making it ideal for meal prep or sweet indulgence anytime.
Ingredients
- 225 g (1 3/4 cups) plain flour (sieved)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 175 g (3/4 cup) softened butter
- 150 g (3/4 cup) regular sugar
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) milk
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F) and grease a loaf tin.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Gradually add the eggs, mixing on low speed, then incorporate the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the milk and flour mixture, mixing gently until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and bake for 60–65 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan for several minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
