Nothing compares to the deliciously rich, dense crumb and creamy subtle tang of a homemade Cream Cheese Pound Cake. This Southern classic brings together the buttery goodness of a traditional pound cake with the irresistible silkiness and moisture that only cream cheese can deliver. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece for any dessert table, perfect for serving with a cup of coffee or dressing up for celebrations. Whether you’re after nostalgia or searching for a foolproof crowd-pleaser, this recipe transforms simple, everyday ingredients into an extraordinary treat that everyone will remember.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every unforgettable Cream Cheese Pound Cake begins with a handful of simple, quality ingredients. These staples not only form the backbone of the cake’s flavor but also shape its uniquely tender and luscious texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why each is so essential:
- Unsalted Butter (1 ½ cups, softened): Rich, creamy butter is the base of the cake, providing flavor and that classic, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Cream Cheese (1 8-oz package, softened): This is the secret to ultra-moist, tender slices with a slight tang that balances all the sweetness perfectly.
- Granulated Sugar (3 cups): Sugar not only sweetens but helps create that coveted golden crust and open, soft crumb.
- Large Eggs (6): Eggs give structure, moisture, and a bit of richness, ensuring your cake holds together while staying soft.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Vanilla lifts the flavors and adds wonderfully fragrant undertones to every bite.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups): The flour provides structure and body, creating a dense but not heavy cake you can slice cleanly.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness.
How to Make Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure even baking right from the start. Generously grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan—make sure you get into every nook and cranny for easy release. There’s nothing worse than a stuck cake after all your hard work!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and luxuriously fluffy. This first step is the foundation of your Cream Cheese Pound Cake’s tender texture, so take your time to blend them thoroughly.
Step 3: Sweeten Things Up
Slowly add in the granulated sugar, continuing to beat on medium-high for about 3 to 5 minutes. The mixture should become light and almost airy. This is what gives that signature velvety crumb and golden crust.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps the batter absorb the eggs gently and evenly, locking in moisture and ensuring a perfectly structured cake every time.
Step 5: Flavor Boost
Pour in the vanilla extract and give everything a quick mix to distribute that fragrant vanilla goodness throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Gradually sift in the flour and salt, mixing on low just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your Cream Cheese Pound Cake tender. Once the batter is smooth and no flour streaks remain, you’re ready for the pan.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 75 to 85 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing as it transforms into a beautiful golden cake! Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Release
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes before gently loosening and turning it out onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing, which helps to lock in moisture and makes cutting easier.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Garnishes
Dress up your Cream Cheese Pound Cake with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of sweet glaze, or pile on some fresh berries. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take each slice into dessert heaven.
Side Dishes
This cake is a star on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with tangy fruit compotes, macerated strawberries, or even a citrusy lemon curd. For a coffee or tea party, you can’t go wrong serving it alongside a pot of freshly brewed black tea or robust coffee.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the Cream Cheese Pound Cake into thick wedges for a rustic look, or slice it thin and layer with whipped cream and fruit for elegant parfaits. You might even cube leftovers for use in trifles or toast slices for a decadent take on breakfast with a smear of butter and jam.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cream Cheese Pound Cake moist and fresh, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them at room temperature for up to three days. The dense crumb means it stays tender longer than most cakes.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully! Slice and wrap individual pieces, or wrap the whole cake, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months, thawing slices at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
For that just-baked warmth, pop slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or heat in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. Warm cake pairs perfectly with melty ice cream or a cup of coffee.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this pound cake?
Full-fat cream cheese is best for both flavor and texture in Cream Cheese Pound Cake, but if you’re after a lighter option, be aware that reduced-fat versions can result in a less rich, slightly drier cake.
Why did my pound cake sink in the middle?
Overmixing the batter or opening the oven too early can cause a pound cake to sink. Always mix just until combined, and avoid peeking during baking until the cake is almost done.
How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?
The cake is done when it’s golden on top, pulling slightly from the sides, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking around 75 minutes.
Can I add flavors or extracts?
Absolutely! Try folding in a teaspoon of almond or lemon extract, or toss in a handful of citrus zest for a unique twist on the traditional Cream Cheese Pound Cake.
What’s the best way to grease the pan?
Thoroughly coat every inch of your bundt or tube pan with butter, then dust with flour, tapping out the excess. For an extra insurance policy, you can also use a baking spray with flour.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is pure joy in every luscious, tender slice. It’s the recipe I turn to again and again, whether I need an effortless dessert for company or a sweet treat to enjoy with morning coffee. Give it a try—you’re about to find a new favorite for all occasions!
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Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of this Cream Cheese Pound Cake. With a velvety texture and a hint of vanilla, this classic dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Batter:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan.
- Mix Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, cream butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add sugar, beating until light. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly mix in flour and salt until just combined.
- Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake for 75–85 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Cool in pan, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Enhance with lemon or almond extract for added flavor.
- Top with glaze or fresh berries if desired.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer shelf life.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
