Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Indulge in the delightful taste of cream cheese pound cake, where the creaminess of cheese meets the buttery richness of traditional pound cake. This decadent dessert is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, it promises to be a hit at your next event or family dinner. Let’s dive into making this irresistible treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 12 servings, with a preparation time of 20 minutes and a cooking time of 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 40g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This is based on a standard serving size and can vary based on portion size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add the sugar gradually, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating 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 until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone for a slightly different flavor. Additionally, using a gluten-free flour blend can accommodate gluten-sensitive diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful cake.
Serving and Pairings
This cream cheese pound cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cooled pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not softening the cream cheese can lead to a lumpy batter.
- Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
- Not preheating the oven may affect baking time and consistency.
- Skipping the greasing of the pan can cause sticking.
- Using cold eggs can lead to uneven mixing.
Helpful Tips
- Let the butter and cream cheese sit out for at least 30 minutes to soften before mixing.
- Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour.
- Try adding citrus zest for an extra flavor boost.
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it might slightly alter the texture and richness of the cake. It will still be delicious!
How can I avoid a dry pound cake?
To prevent a dry cake, do not overbake it and ensure you measure your flour correctly. Using room temperature ingredients also helps maintain moisture.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips can enhance the flavor, just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the pan.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I do with leftover cake?
Leftover cake can be used to make a trifle, layered with whipped cream and fruits, or simply enjoyed as a snack on its own.
Conclusion
Cream cheese pound cake is a timeless treat that combines rich flavors with a moist, tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add the sugar gradually, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating 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 until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
