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Directions:
1. Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. The coating of butter and flour helps give the cake that beautiful golden crust while keeping it from sticking to the pan.
2. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is important because it helps incorporate air into the batter, contributing to the cake’s fluffy texture.
3. Add Sugar
Gradually add the granulated sugar, about 1/4 cup at a time, and continue beating. The sugar should be fully dissolved into the butter and cream cheese mixture. Beat for another 4-5 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. Incorporate Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This will ensure the eggs are evenly incorporated into the mixture. Once all the eggs are added, mix in the vanilla extract (and almond extract, if using). These flavoring agents give the cake its aromatic base and enhance the overall taste.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed to avoid flour flying everywhere. Be careful not to overmix at this stage. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated.
6. Pour into the Pan
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
7. Bake the Cake
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so start checking the cake after about 55 minutes. If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.
8. Cool the Cake
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a cooling rack to release the cake. Let the cake cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to set and the texture to firm up.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend smoothly and ensures a light texture in the final cake.
- Sifting Dry Ingredients: Sift your flour, baking powder, and salt together before adding them to the wet ingredients. This step prevents clumps and ensures a uniform batter.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain that perfect crumb.
Serving Ideas
- Topping Options: Serve the cake plain for a simple, elegant treat, or top with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit such as berries or citrus slices.
- Add a Glaze: For an extra layer of sweetness, you can drizzle a glaze over the cake. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk works perfectly, or you can try a cream cheese glaze to enhance the cake’s flavor.
- Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or a cold glass of milk.
Final Thoughts
The Best Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a timeless dessert that combines the best of both worlds: rich flavor and a moist, tender crumb. Its simplicity and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from family gatherings to more formal celebrations. Whether you enjoy it as is or dress it up with toppings, this pound cake will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Give this recipe a try, and watch your family and friends rave about how delicious it is!
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