Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake – Page 2

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pans

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two 9×5-inch loaf pans. Alternatively, you can line the pans with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the butter and sugar are well combined.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter, giving the cake its light texture.
Add the vanilla extract (and vanilla bean paste, if using) and mix to combine.

5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Reduce the mixer speed to low, and begin adding the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk in two parts (start and end with the dry ingredients). Mix just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
If using lemon juice, add it with the buttermilk for a hint of citrusy brightness.

6. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s) and spread it out evenly.
For a bundt cake, bake for 60-70 minutes. For loaf pans, bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
If the cake is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the top with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, slice and serve. You can enjoy it plain, or top it with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps them mix more evenly and ensures a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause the cake to become tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Use Fresh Buttermilk: Fresh buttermilk is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Let the Cake Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing it to prevent it from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with Fruit: Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries pair beautifully with this pound cake, adding a fresh contrast to its richness.
Add a Glaze: A simple glaze made of powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk is an easy way to add a touch of sweetness. You can also infuse the glaze with a little lemon juice for extra zing.
Pair with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor of the cake.
Enjoy with Tea or Coffee: This cake is a perfect companion for afternoon tea or coffee. It’s an elegant, satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe Works

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake is a classic for a reason. The buttermilk not only helps create a soft and moist cake, but it also balances out the sweetness, making the cake rich without being overwhelming. The vanilla provides a comforting, familiar flavor that makes every bite feel like a warm hug.

The addition of lemon juice (optional) gives the cake a subtle brightness that enhances the overall flavor, cutting through the richness of the butter without overpowering the vanilla. The texture is dense but tender, and the crumb is fine and moist—just like the pound cake you remember from childhood.

Conclusion

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake is a timeless classic that’s both simple and indulgent. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply to enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to impress. Its soft, buttery texture and subtle flavor make it a true comfort food—one that you’ll want to make again and again. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of cake that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious.

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