This Three Layer Pound Cake is a showstopper that combines rich flavors and stunning visuals. The delightful contrast of vanilla and chocolate layers makes it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. With its tender crumb and wonderful taste, this cake will impress your guests and become a family favorite!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beautiful Layers: The combination of chocolate and vanilla creates an eye-catching dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
Versatile Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up this cake in no time, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
Decadent Flavor: Every slice offers a moist and flavorful experience that pairs well with coffee or tea.
Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist with different fillings or frostings to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the Three Layer Pound Cake, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Tube pan
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
Tube Pan: Ideal for even baking, allowing the heat to circulate around the cake for consistent results.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for successful baking.

Ingredients

This tender, flavorful pound cake is not only delicious, but with three layers of vanilla and chocolate, it is beautiful too!

Ingredients:
– 3 sticks (339g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cups (600g) sugar
– 5 large eggs, room temperature (Place in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes if you are in a hurry.)
– 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour (not self-rising)
– 1/2 teaspoon (2g) baking powder
– 1 cup (235g) whole milk
– 2 teaspoons (8g) vanilla extract
– 5 Tablespoons (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder, measure then sift (we used Ghirardelli)
– 5 Tablespoons (55g) HOT water
– 4 oz Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate
– 3 oz Heavy Cream or Whipping Cream

How to Make Three Layer Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease and flour a tube pan. This prevents the cake from sticking when it’s time to remove it.

Step 3: Mix Cocoa Powder

In a small bowl, add the cocoa powder and stir in the HOT water. The hot water helps blend the cocoa easily and bloom the chocolate. Set aside for later use.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined. Set this mixture aside until needed.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your mixer bowl, add the softened butter. Mix on medium speed until soft. Gradually add sugar and continue mixing until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 6: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time into the mixture, mixing until each yolk disappears before adding the next one.

Step 7: Alternate Milk and Flour Mixtures

Add vanilla extract to the milk. With your mixer on low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and milk into your batter. Start with flour, then milk, repeating this process until everything is well blended.

How to Serve Three Layer Pound Cake

Three Layer Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, serving suggestions can elevate this cake experience.

With Fresh Berries

Serve slices of Three Layer Pound Cake topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

A Dollop of Whipped Cream

Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice. This light topping balances the dense cake perfectly.

Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

Pour warm chocolate ganache over the layers for an indulgent twist. The richness complements the vanilla and chocolate layers beautifully.

Ice Cream Pairing

Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The cold ice cream enhances the flavors and adds a creamy texture.

Coffee or Tea

Pair slices of cake with a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage contrasts nicely with the sweet cake.

How to Perfect Three Layer Pound Cake

To achieve the best results with your Three Layer Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips for baking success.

Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to ensure better mixing and a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake tender and light. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Cool properly: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to prevent it from breaking.

Best Side Dishes for Three Layer Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Three Layer Pound Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the rich flavors of the cake.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce on top or serve it on the side for those who crave extra sweetness.
Caramel Sauce: A rich caramel sauce can provide a delicious contrast when poured over each slice.
Nut Toppings: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch and texture when sprinkled on top of each serving.
Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a nice balance to the sweetness of the cake.
Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses as a savory option that pairs well with sweet desserts like pound cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a perfect three layer pound cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Skipping the room temperature eggs: Using cold eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always let your eggs sit in warm water for a few minutes before using them.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise, and improper measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
Ignoring oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can affect baking time and cake texture. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right temperature.
Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased pan prevents sticking. Make sure to grease and flour your tube pan thoroughly before adding the batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap to keep them fresh.

Freezing Three Layer Pound Cake

Freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating Three Layer Pound Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap slices in 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 skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a three layer pound cake different?

A three layer pound cake adds two additional layers of flavor and texture compared to a traditional pound cake. It combines vanilla and chocolate flavors for a richer experience.

Can I customize the flavors of my three layer pound cake?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts or mix in fruits, nuts, or spices to create unique flavors tailored to your taste preferences.

How do I know when my three layer pound cake is done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

What should I serve with three layer pound cake?

This delicious cake pairs well with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a scoop of ice cream for an extra special treat.

Final Thoughts

This three layer pound cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Its versatility allows you to customize it for any occasion, making it perfect for birthdays or family gatherings. Try this recipe today, and delight everyone with its luscious layers!

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Three Layer Pound Cake

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in our exquisite Three Layer Pound Cake, a stunning dessert that effortlessly combines rich chocolate and vanilla flavors. This delightful cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holiday celebrations. Each layer boasts a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making it a family favorite and an impressive centerpiece for gatherings. With simple steps and easily customizable options, this pound cake allows you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen while ensuring an unforgettable taste experience for all who try it.

Ingredients

Scale

3 sticks unsalted butter, softened
3 cups sugar
5 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
5 tablespoons hot water

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F and grease a tube pan.
Mix cocoa powder with hot water until smooth; set aside.
Whisk together flour and baking powder in one bowl; set aside.
Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine milk and vanilla extract; alternate adding flour mixture and milk to the batter until well blended.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American