Description
Bake the perfect Classic Homemade Vanilla Pound Cake with this easy, buttery recipe! Soft, moist, rich, and full of real vanilla flavor, it’s perfect for dessert, brunch, holidays, or an everyday treat. Serve it plain or with fresh berries and whipped cream for a timeless homemade favorite everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2 cups (226g) unsalted butter, softened – Creates the signature rich and buttery flavor.
3 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake while helping create a tender crumb.
6 large eggs, room temperature – Provide structure, richness, and moisture.
3 cups all-purpose flour – Gives the cake its classic dense texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Adds a gentle lift without making the cake too airy.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the butter flavor.
1 cup whole milk, room temperature – Keeps the cake moist and soft.
2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract – Delivers rich, classic vanilla flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional) – Adds beautiful vanilla specks and extra depth.
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh strawberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla glaze
- Lemon glaze
- Fresh mint
- Toasted almonds
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a Bundt or loaf pan.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 70–85 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice, garnish as desired, and serve.
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for the softest, most even crumb.
- Cream the butter and sugar well to create a light, tender texture.
- Cool the cake completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 85
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 480 calories
