Simple Vanilla Pound Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk

Highlighted under: Confection Corner

I absolutely adore making this Simple Vanilla Pound Cake. It’s my go-to recipe that never fails to impress. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the rich vanilla flavor to shine through beautifully. Each slice is moist and tender, and the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible. It's perfect for afternoon tea or as a delightful dessert to share with family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you'll find yourself making it again and again for any occasion!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:49:36.091Z

When I first tried my hand at baking, this Simple Vanilla Pound Cake was one of my earliest creations. I learned that using room temperature ingredients helps in achieving a light and airy texture. The batter should be mixed until just combined; overmixing can make it dense and heavy. By following these little tips, I discovered how to elevate this simple recipe into something truly delicious.

One of my favorite variations is to add a hint of almond extract alongside the vanilla. It complements the flavor wonderfully, giving the cake a unique twist. Baking can be a bit of a science, but with practice and experimentation, I've perfected this pound cake to be my family’s favorite. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The comforting aroma of freshly baked cake.
A versatile base for adding your favorite fruits or toppings.
Perfectly moist with a delicate crumb that everyone will enjoy.

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of this Simple Vanilla Pound Cake lies in its few high-quality ingredients. Unsalted butter is crucial as it allows you to control the saltiness of the cake, enhancing its flavor. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar, which helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a light texture. Granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to the structural integrity by helping to create a tender crumb.

Each egg in this recipe plays a vital role in providing moisture, richness, and stability. The eggs should be at room temperature as well, as this helps them to emulsify better with the butter and sugar mixture. The vanilla extract brings a warm, aromatic depth to the cake; feel free to use real vanilla for an even more intense flavor. If you want to keep it more economical, artificial vanilla extract works too, but the taste may not be as robust.

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing the ingredients, be cautious not to overmix after combining the dry and wet components. The goal is to mix until just combined, as overmixing can lead to a dense cake. If you notice the batter seems too thick, you can add a touch more milk to achieve that perfect pourable consistency. Also, for even baking, I recommend rotating the loaf pan halfway through the baking time to ensure the top browns evenly without burning.

If this is your first time baking this cake, check for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean; if not, allow it to bake for a few additional minutes. Keep an eye on the top; if it starts to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to bake fully.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting for a smoother baking experience.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely to achieve the perfect pound cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious pound cake as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider glazing the cake with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk. You can also add citrus zest for additional flavor.

Serving and Storing

Once your Simple Vanilla Pound Cake has cooled completely, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To keep it fresh longer, consider wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and freezing them; they thaw beautifully and maintain their moisture when left at room temperature to defrost. This makes it perfect for unexpected guests or future cravings.

For serving, this cake is versatile. You can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elevated dessert. A drizzle of chocolate glaze or a light vanilla icing can also add an extra layer of flavor that complements the vanilla base beautifully.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavor add-ins. Adding the zest of a lemon or an orange can provide a refreshing twist on the classic vanilla flavor profile. You might also consider folding in mini chocolate chips or dried fruit into the batter for added texture. Nuts like pecans or walnuts can give a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cake's tender crumb.

If you want to adapt this recipe for different dietary needs, consider using a dairy-free butter substitute and almond or oat milk for a lactose-free version. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but be sure to check the texture, as additional moisture might be needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for a delightful twist!