Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and indulgence to any occasion. This rich, moist pound cake has the perfect balance of sweetness, with the tangy addition of buttermilk, which makes it incredibly tender and flavorful. The cream cheese glaze drizzled on top adds a luscious, creamy finish that complements the cake’s vanilla notes beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special event, enjoying a quiet afternoon tea, or looking for a delicious homemade treat, this pound cake is guaranteed to impress. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the methodical steps make this an easy cake to bake, and the result is always a showstopper. From its golden, crumbly exterior to its velvety interior, this cake is perfect for both casual and festive gatherings. If you’re looking to treat yourself or impress your guests, this vanilla buttermilk pound cake is a must-try recipe that will undoubtedly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze. First, it’s incredibly moist thanks to the buttermilk and butter, which create a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. The combination of vanilla extract and the subtle tang of buttermilk elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. The cream cheese glaze is the perfect finishing touch, adding richness and a touch of sweetness that enhances the cake’s natural flavors. Additionally, the recipe is simple to prepare, with easy-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. It’s versatile enough to serve at a variety of occasions, whether it’s a casual get-together or a more formal celebration. Plus, the cake keeps well for several days, so you can enjoy it over time or share it with friends and family.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Large eggs, at room temperature
• Pure vanilla extract
• Buttermilk, at room temperature

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Milk or heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

Variations

• Lemon Pound Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter for a bright citrus twist. You can also add a little lemon juice to the cream cheese glaze for extra flavor.
• Almond Flavor: Substitute half of the vanilla extract with almond extract to give the cake a subtle, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cream cheese glaze.
• Chocolate Pound Cake: Swirl in some cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey variation of this cake. You can also drizzle the cake with a chocolate ganache instead of cream cheese glaze for a decadent dessert.
• Fruit-Infused Cake: Add fresh berries or chopped stone fruits like peaches to the batter for a fruity twist, or top the finished cake with fresh fruit for decoration.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the cake is cooling, make the cream cheese glaze by beating the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the milk or heavy cream until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature to ensure the batter comes together smoothly.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking the cake for doneness at around 50 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
• Use a Stand Mixer: If you have a stand mixer, it can make creaming the butter and sugar easier and more efficient, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.

How to Serve

This vanilla buttermilk pound cake with cream cheese glaze is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon treat or part of a more formal celebration. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a simple yet indulgent dessert. It also makes an excellent birthday cake, especially if topped with fresh fruit or whipped cream. For an even more decadent experience, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. The cake will remain moist and flavorful for several days.

Freezing

To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply leave the cake at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Just be sure not to overheat it, as the cake can dry out.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before using.

2. Can I use salted butter in this recipe?

It’s best to use unsalted butter for this recipe to control the amount of salt in the cake. However, if you use salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.

3. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.

4. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, the cake can be made a day ahead. Store it covered at room temperature and glaze it just before serving.

5. Can I make the cream cheese glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just re-whisk it before using.

6. Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes, you can fold in berries like blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity twist. Be sure to fold them gently to avoid breaking the fruit.

7. Can I use a bundt pan instead of a loaf pan?

Yes, a bundt pan will work as well. You may need to adjust the baking time, as the cake will cook faster in a bundt pan.

8. Can I make this cake without the cream cheese glaze?

Yes, you can skip the glaze or substitute it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a different topping.

9. How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

10. Can I freeze the cream cheese glaze?

It’s best to make the glaze fresh, as freezing it may alter its texture. However, the cake itself can be frozen for later enjoyment.

Conclusion

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a classic dessert that delivers on both flavor and texture. The moist, rich cake paired with the creamy, sweet glaze makes for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple enough to follow while still creating an impressive result. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a sweet treat on your own—it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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