Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a classic dessert that’s rich, moist, and bursting with the warm flavors of vanilla. The addition of buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while the tangy cream cheese glaze adds a creamy and decadent finish. This cake is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or as a delightful treat with coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and tender crumb from the buttermilk.
• A beautiful vanilla flavor that’s comforting and classic.
• The cream cheese glaze adds a tangy, sweet touch.
• Easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
• Freezes well, making it great for prepping ahead.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pound Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or heavy cream

Directions

For the Pound Cake

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or a loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together with a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 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 it to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

1. Prepare the Glaze:
   In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix in milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.
2. Glaze the Cake:
   Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cooled cake. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest and juice to the cake batter and glaze for a citrusy flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Chocolate Glaze: Substitute the cream cheese glaze with a rich chocolate ganache.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Berry Topping: Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of berry compote.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Serve at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of 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.

2. What’s the best way to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray and dust with flour, ensuring every crevice is covered.

3. Can I make this cake without a mixer?

Yes, but ensure you cream the butter and sugar thoroughly with a whisk or wooden spoon for the best texture.

4. Can I use flavored extracts?

Yes, almond or coconut extract can be used for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I make the glaze thicker?

Add more powdered sugar to thicken the glaze.

6. Can I bake this in a different pan?

Yes, you can use two loaf pans or a 9×13-inch pan; adjust baking time accordingly.

7. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.

8. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the glaze?

Mascarpone cheese or a simple powdered sugar glaze works well.

9. How do I achieve an even bake?

Ensure your oven is preheated and use a light-colored metal pan for even heat distribution.

10. Can I add frosting instead of glaze?

Yes, a layer of cream cheese frosting would pair beautifully with this pound cake.

Conclusion

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a timeless dessert that combines rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy treat at home, this cake is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Serve it with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit, and enjoy a slice of indulgence!

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