If you’ve ever dreamed of a cake that melts in your mouth with a rich, velvety texture alongside a perfect balance of buttery and tangy flavors, then you’re in for a treat. The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe takes the classic pound cake to a whole new level by incorporating cream cheese into the batter, creating a moist and dense crumb that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s a timeless dessert that’s wonderfully simple yet unbelievably satisfying, perfect for impressing guests or savoring on a cozy afternoon with your favorite cup of tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation for making The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe truly shine. Each item plays a crucial role, from providing structure and flavor to adding moisture and richness, ensuring every slice is as delightful as the last.
- Butter (1 cup, softened): This adds a creamy richness and tender crumb to your cake.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star ingredient that lends moisture and a slight tangy flavor, making the cake irresistibly soft.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The backbone of the cake’s structure, giving it that classic pound cake density.
- Sugar (3 cups): Sweetness that balances the tang of cream cheese and enhances browning.
- Large eggs (6): Adds richness and helps bind all ingredients together for a perfect rise.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A warm, aromatic note that elevates the overall flavor.
- Almond extract (½ tsp): A subtle, nutty hint that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
- Salt (¼ tsp): A critical touch to balance the sweetness and enhance depth of flavor.
How to Make The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure even baking throughout. Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly, which is essential for that signature shape and effortless release once the cake is baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined. This process incorporates air, which helps create a tender cake and balances the dense ingredients.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts carefully, as their fragrances will infuse the cake batter with a subtle yet captivating aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour along with the salt. Mixing gently ensures you get a smooth batter without overworking it, which keeps the cake moist and tender rather than tough.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye toward the end to avoid overbaking.
Step 6: Cool and Unmold
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set and become firm enough to handle. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely, preserving the moistness and ensuring an even texture throughout.
How to Serve The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add just the right touch of elegance, but fresh berries or a drizzle of homemade fruit compote can also brighten the plate and complement the cake’s rich flavor.
Side Dishes
This pound cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a homemade café experience, serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or a light dessert wine for a perfect afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe and layering it with mascarpone and fresh strawberries for a quick trifle. Alternatively, toast a slice lightly and spread with lemon curd or jam for a delicious breakfast twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover pound cake tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain its moist texture while protecting it from air exposure.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your cake later, double-wrap slices in plastic and aluminum foil, or store them in an airtight container before freezing. The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe freezes beautifully for up to three months without losing its flavor or texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen slices at room temperature or warm them briefly in a low oven to revive that fresh-baked feel and aroma. A quick microwave zap also works well for single slices if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While you can, using full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor for The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe. Low-fat versions may alter the moistness and richness.
Is it necessary to use both vanilla and almond extracts?
The combination adds depth and a subtle complexity to the cake’s flavor. However, if almond extract isn’t available, you can use just vanilla and still have a delicious result.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substituting with a gluten-free flour blend might work, but it may change the texture. It’s best to choose blends designed for cakes and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Why is the cake slightly dense?
The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is meant to have a rich and dense crumb, which comes from its pound cake heritage and the addition of cream cheese, creating that wonderful moist texture you love.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best indicator is inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent the cake from collapsing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is a timeless gem that never fails to please. Its luscious texture and nuanced flavors bring warmth and joy with every bite, making it a must-try for anyone who loves a classic cake with a delightful twist. Go ahead and bake it—your kitchen will thank you, and so will your taste buds.
Print
The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a decadent, moist, and dense dessert perfect for any occasion. With a rich combination of butter and cream cheese, it offers a tender crumb and delightful flavor enhanced by vanilla and almond extracts. Baked in a bundt pan, it’s an elegant treat that pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 cups sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy release of the cake after baking.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes fluffy and light, which will help create a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition to incorporate air and maintain a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract for added flavor depth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and homogeneous. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for the best creaming results.
- Use a bundt pan to achieve the classic shape and even cooking.
- Check the cake at 60 minutes to avoid overbaking, as oven temperatures may vary.
- Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing to maintain its structure and moisture.
- Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with fresh berries for added presentation.
