Classic Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, moist, and utterly divine classic vanilla buttermilk pound cake, smothered in a rich and creamy cream cheese glaze. This timeless dessert is a masterclass in simplicity, relying on everyday ingredients to create a truly exceptional taste experience. With its effortless preparation and impressive results, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their baking skills without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this classic vanilla buttermilk pound cake with cream cheese glaze is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of vanilla, buttermilk, and cream cheese creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making this recipe a breeze to whip up.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance and taste, this pound cake is surprisingly easy to prepare. With a simple mixture of wet and dry ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a stunning dessert in no time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The best part? This recipe yields a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family, all with minimal fuss and effort. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats, this classic vanilla buttermilk pound cake with cream cheese glaze is a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (235ml) buttermilk
• For the cream cheese glaze: 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened, 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat and Prep Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch (23x13cm) loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Step 2: Mix the Batter In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
3. Step 3: Pour and Bake Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Step 4: Glaze the Cake For the cream cheese glaze, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy. Beat in vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Heat Control

To ensure your cake is perfectly baked, keep an eye on the temperature and baking time. The ideal temperature for this recipe is 325°F (165°C), and the cake should be baked for 55-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Crunch Factor

This classic vanilla buttermilk pound cake is designed to be tender and moist, with a delicate crumb. To achieve this, make sure not to overmix the batter, and don’t overbake the cake. The cream cheese glaze adds a rich and creamy element to the cake, balancing out the texture perfectly.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To ensure your cake releases from the pan easily, make sure to grease it properly and line it with parchment paper.
• For a perfectly smooth glaze, make sure to beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy before adding the powdered sugar.
• To add an extra layer of flavor to your cake, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the batter.

Storage Tips

• The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placed in a freezer-safe bag.
• To freeze the glaze, place it in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen glaze in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This classic vanilla buttermilk pound cake with cream cheese glaze makes a beautiful gift for friends and family. Consider packaging the cake in a decorative tin or gift box, wrapped in parchment paper or plastic wrap. You can also add a personalized touch by including a handwritten note or a sprinkle of decorative toppings.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Replace the cream cheese glaze with a powdered sugar glaze or a chocolate ganache for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• If your cake is too dense, try reducing the amount of flour or adding an extra egg to the batter.
• If your glaze is too thin, try adding more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, try adding a little more cream cheese or butter.
• If your cake is overbaked, try reducing the baking time or temperature. If it’s underbaked, try baking it for a few more minutes.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is the cake gluten-free? No, the cake contains all-purpose flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake. Just keep in mind that the baking time may be longer, so make sure to check the cake for doneness regularly.

Conclusion

This classic vanilla buttermilk pound cake with cream cheese glaze is a timeless dessert that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. With its effortless preparation and impressive results, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their baking skills without breaking a sweat. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the oohs and aahs from your friends and family as you present this stunning dessert. Happy baking!