Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luscious, moist dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the traditional dense texture of pound cake. This cake is a delightful treat for any occasion, boasting a tender crumb and a subtle tang that elevates its flavor profile. Perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with fresh fruits and whipped cream, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this Cream Cheese Pound Cake for its perfect balance of flavor and ease of preparation. The cream cheese adds a delightful richness that keeps the cake moist while enhancing its buttery flavor. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Whether you’re looking for a sweet finish to a dinner party or a comforting slice with your morning coffee, this cake fits beautifully into any lifestyle, whether you’re indulging or simply treating yourself.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results with your Cream Cheese Pound Cake, here are some helpful tips:
- Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to create a smooth batter and avoid lumps.
- Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour, to ensure the perfect texture.
- Don’t skip the creaming step; it’s essential for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
- If you want additional flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the batter.
Make Ahead Tips
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is perfect for make-ahead preparation:
- You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
- The cake itself can be baked a day ahead of when you plan to serve it; it stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Cream Cheese Pound Cake to suit your taste:
- For a citrus twist, add the zest of a lemon or orange to the batter.
- Incorporate chocolate chips or nuts for an added crunch.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try swirling in some fruit preserves or fresh berries before baking for a fruity surprise.
How to Serve
To serve your Cream Cheese Pound Cake beautifully, slice it into generous pieces and place them on individual dessert plates. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch, and a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the cake perfectly. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your dessert experience by pairing your Cream Cheese Pound Cake with the perfect drink. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich cup of Earl Grey tea will balance the cake’s richness. For a more festive touch, consider pairing it with a sweet dessert wine or a light, fruity cocktail. Fresh fruit salad or a scoop of sorbet can also make delightful side companions.
How to Store
To keep your Cream Cheese Pound Cake fresh:
- Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- If you want to extend its shelf life, freeze it as mentioned earlier. To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need some basic kitchen tools to make this cake:
- A stand mixer or hand mixer for creaming the butter and cream cheese.
- A 9×5 inch loaf pan or a bundt pan for baking.
- Parchment paper for lining, which makes for easy removal.
- A cooling rack to let the cake cool properly after baking.
Dietary Adaptations
To make a dairy-free version of this Cream Cheese Pound Cake, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut oil in place of butter. For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure. Adjust sugar levels for a keto-friendly version by using erythritol or another low-carb sweetener.
Seasonal Adaptations
Depending on the season, consider adding seasonal ingredients:
- In fall, incorporate spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm flavor.
- In summer, serve with a side of fresh peaches or berries for a refreshing complement.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I substitute the cream cheese? Yes, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
- How long do I bake the cake? The cake typically takes about 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on it; a toothpick should come out clean when done.
- Can I add flavorings? Absolutely! Vanilla or almond extracts work wonderfully in this recipe.
Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luscious, moist dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the traditional dense texture of pound cake.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan or bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract. - Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Yield
10Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 520Total Fat 29gSaturated Fat 17gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 147mgSodium 365mgCarbohydrates 61gFiber 1gSugar 41gProtein 7g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Baking a Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a rewarding endeavor that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and results in a truly delicious dessert. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a cake that is sure to impress friends and family. Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and presentations, and most importantly, enjoy every slice! Happy baking!