Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

This Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a luscious, moist, and tender cake that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich flavor of vanilla combined with the tanginess of buttermilk creates a beautifully balanced dessert, and the cream cheese glaze adds a delightful finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort: This pound cake is a timeless dessert that evokes warm, nostalgic feelings.
• Moist Texture: The buttermilk keeps the cake incredibly soft and tender.
• Versatile: Serve it plain, with fruits, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a variety of presentations.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive flavor, the recipe is straightforward, perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual family gathering or a special celebration, this cake fits right in.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk

For the cream cheese glaze:

• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan or loaf pan generously.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This ensures a tender cake.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Adding Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the flour mixture in thirds, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Glaze: Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
9. Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cooled cake and let it set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest to the batter and use lemon juice in the glaze for a citrusy touch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Substitute the cream cheese glaze with melted chocolate for a decadent variation.
• Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Mini Pound Cakes: Bake the batter in individual mini loaf pans or muffin tins for personal-sized treats.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore freshness.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of glaze?

Yes, you can use a simple vanilla glaze, chocolate glaze, or even a fruit glaze for variety.

2. Can I substitute buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, use a mixture of 1 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

4. Can I use salted butter?

If you use salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

5. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Ensure your pan is thoroughly greased and floured, or use a baking spray with flour included.

6. Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes, fold in small berries or diced fruits like apples or peaches for added flavor.

7. Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Use a plant-based milk and vinegar mixture for buttermilk and dairy-free butter and cream cheese for the glaze.

8. Why is my pound cake dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for the best texture.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe for a larger cake or multiple loaves. Adjust baking time as needed.

10. Can I bake this cake in a round cake pan?

Yes, you can use round cake pans, but you may need to adjust the baking time.

Conclusion

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its moist texture, rich vanilla flavor, and creamy glaze, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you enjoy it as-is or experiment with fun variations, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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