Are we looking for a simple yet satisfying dessert to make at home? This vanilla pound cake is a classic choice that never goes out of style. It has a rich buttery flavor, a soft and dense texture, and a light vanilla aroma that fills the kitchen while baking.
We don’t need complicated techniques or special tools. With clear steps and basic ingredients, we can create a cake that looks beautiful and tastes comforting. Let’s walk through everything together step by step.
<h3>Time and Serving Details</h3>
Before we begin, let’s understand the full process so we can plan our time well. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and baking takes 60 to 70 minutes. The total time is around 90 minutes.
This recipe makes one loaf, which can be sliced into 8 to 10 servings. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying over a few days.
<h3>Ingredients We Need (Exact Amounts)</h3>
Let’s prepare all ingredients in advance to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
<b>For the cake:</b>
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) sugar
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
<b>For the vanilla glaze:</b>
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
<h3>Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan</h3>
1. We start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the beginning.
2. Next, we grease an 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan with butter. Then we line it with baking paper, leaving some extra paper on the sides. This makes it easy to lift the cake out later without breaking it.
Tip: If we use a 9 x 5-inch pan, the baking time will be shorter, around 40 to 50 minutes.
<h3>Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Vanilla</h3>
1. In a large mixing bowl, we add the softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, we beat the mixture on medium-high speed for about 8 minutes.
2. The mixture should turn light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is very important because it adds air into the batter, helping the cake become soft.
3. We pause once or twice to scrape down the sides of the bowl, then mix again for about 30 seconds to ensure everything is evenly combined.
<h3>Step 3: Add Eggs One by One</h3>
1. Now we add the eggs, one at a time. After adding each egg, we mix until it is fully blended into the batter.
2. We also scrape the sides of the bowl after each addition. This helps create a smooth and stable mixture. Rushing this step may affect the final texture, so we take our time here.
<h3>Step 4: Add Flour and Form the Batter</h3>
1. We turn the mixer to low speed and slowly add the flour. We mix just until the batter starts to come together. It’s okay if we still see a few light streaks of flour.
2. Then we switch to a spatula and gently fold the batter until smooth. The final batter should be thick, creamy, and evenly mixed.
<h3>Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter</h3>
1. We transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Using a spatula, we spread it evenly and smooth the top.
2. To remove air bubbles, we gently run a thin tool through the batter, then smooth the surface again. This helps the cake bake evenly.
<h3>Step 6: Bake the Cake</h3>
1. We place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes.
2. To check if the cake is ready, we insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is fully baked. If not, we bake for a few more minutes and check again.
<h3>Step 7: Cool the Cake Properly</h3>
1. After baking, we remove the cake from the oven. While it is still warm, we gently loosen the edges.
2. We let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then we lift it out using the baking paper and place it on a rack to cool completely. This step helps maintain the cake’s structure.
<h3>Step 8: Make the Vanilla Glaze</h3>
1. While the cake is cooling, we prepare the glaze. In a bowl, we mix melted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. We add milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the glaze becomes smooth and easy to pour.
<h3>Step 9: Glaze and Serve</h3>
1. Once the cake is completely cool, we pour the glaze over the top, letting it flow naturally down the sides.
2. We can serve it immediately, or wait for the glaze to set for a slightly firmer finish.
3. For storage, we keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 5 days. It can also be wrapped tightly and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
<h3>Enjoy the Sweet Moment Together</h3>
Lykkers, this vanilla pound cake shows us how simple ingredients can turn into something truly comforting. From mixing to baking, every step brings a sense of calm and satisfaction.
When we slice into the cake and take that first bite, we enjoy not just the flavor, but also the process we experienced. Let’s keep exploring more easy and delicious recipes together!
Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe | Just 5 INGREDIENTS!
Video by Cook Me Food
