If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug from your favorite childhood memories, the Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This cake blends the rich, velvety texture of cream cheese with a tender crumb that is impossibly moist yet perfectly dense. Each bite delivers a buttery, subtly sweet flavor that dances on your palate and makes it an instant family favorite. Whether for a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, this recipe is a timeless classic that never disappoints and is incredibly easy to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple ingredients that work together in perfect harmony to create a luscious and moist cake. Each element plays a crucial role in the texture, taste, and appearance, so gathering everything beforehand sets you up for baking success.
- 1 cup butter, softened: Provides rich creaminess and a tender crumb to the cake.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that elevates the pound cake beyond ordinary.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s sturdy yet soft structure—make sure to measure properly.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering it.
- 6 large eggs: Bind the batter and contribute to the cake’s richness and rise.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm and inviting aroma that complements the cream cheese.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently for a light texture.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavors.
How to Make Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly to ensure your cake slides out easily once baked. This step is key, as you don’t want all your hard work to stick to the pan!
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 turns smooth and fluffy. This creaming process incorporates air, which is essential for giving your pound cake that fabulous lightness despite its rich ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. This steady mixing ensures the batter emulsifies properly for a consistent texture. Stir in the vanilla extract last to spread that lovely fragrance throughout the batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Add to Wet
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt separately. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until smooth. Overmixing can toughen your cake, so be gentle yet thorough here.
Step 5: Bake Your Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan and smooth out the surface. Place it in the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is pure happiness in the making.
Step 6: Cool and Release the Cake
Once baked, let your pound cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time allows the cake to set up perfectly before slicing.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe extra special, try dusting the top with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze made from lemon juice and confectioners’ sugar. Fresh berries or a spoonful of whipped cream add a lovely touch, balancing the cake’s richness with brightness and freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair your pound cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit salad for a classic dessert combo. A cup of hot coffee or tea also makes a perfect accompaniment, creating a cozy moment with every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice the cake and serve it in layers with cream and strawberries in between for a quick trifle. You can also cut it into cubes and skewer them with fresh fruit for a fun and interactive dessert display. The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is versatile and can shine in any creative setup you imagine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your cream cheese pound cake has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, maintaining its moist texture beautifully.
Freezing
This cake freezes wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead treat. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy a slice as if freshly baked, heat it gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or warm slices in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back the cake’s soft warmth and enhances the cream cheese flavor.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in the Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe?
While low-fat cream cheese can be used, it may affect the cake’s richness and moist texture. For the classic dense and creamy result, full-fat cream cheese is best.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum to help with structure.
Why does my pound cake sometimes turn out dry?
Dry pound cake is usually due to overbaking or overmixing. Keep an eye on the baking time and mix the batter just until smooth to retain moisture.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add lemon zest, almond extract, or fold in chocolate chips and nuts for a personalized twist that complements the basic recipe beautifully.
What kind of pan works best for this recipe?
A bundt pan is traditional and creates a stunning shape, but a standard loaf pan or tube pan will also work well. Just adjust baking time as needed and test with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
The Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that manages to be both luxurious and comforting. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why it’s a regular request at my table. It’s approachable for bakers of all levels and always delivers that melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and delight yourself and your loved ones with this irresistible cake. Trust me, it’s even better than you imagine.
Print
Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Cream Cheese Pound Cake is rich, moist, and incredibly flavorful, made with a creamy blend of butter and cream cheese for a tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, it combines simple ingredients to create a timeless dessert with a smooth, dense texture and a subtle vanilla aroma.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, softened cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and pale in color. This step incorporates air to give the cake a light texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined and smooth, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it out carefully with a spatula to fill all crevices.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked.
- Cool the Cake: Once baked, let the cake cool in the bundt pan for about 10 minutes to set. Then gently invert the cake onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure both the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier creaming and smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour to prevent a dense or tough cake.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to test doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the cake completely before slicing for cleaner cuts and better texture.
- You can dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze if desired.
