If you have a soft spot for rich, moist, and buttery desserts that feel like a warm hug in cake form, then you’re in for a treat with the Cream Cheese Pound Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe. This classic takes the beloved pound cake to a whole new level by incorporating cream cheese, which adds a luscious creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy afternoon dessert, this cake delivers on every promise—dense yet tender, with a golden crust and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and this recipe shines because it uses simple, everyday staples that work together in perfect harmony to create a cake worthy of any celebration. Each element plays a crucial role in crafting the texture, taste, and appearance that make this recipe so special.
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and a velvety crumb for that classic pound cake texture.
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened): Adds moisture and a subtle tang that elevates the flavor to gourmet levels.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to create a tender crumb.
- 6 large eggs (room temperature): Essential for structure and creating a light, airy batter.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses warm, aromatic notes that enhance every bite.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the backbone of the cake, giving it the perfect density without heaviness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Cream Cheese Pound Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and greasing and flouring a 10-inch bundt or tube pan. This step is crucial to ensure your cake releases effortlessly and holds its beautiful shape, setting you up for a stunning presentation.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This combination is the heart of the cake, creating a dense yet tender texture that’s unparalleled.
Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually
Slowly beat in the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes around 4 to 5 minutes. This aeration is key for giving the cake its delicate crumb and beautiful rise.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs One at a Time
Add the eggs individually, beating well after each addition. This step ensures the eggs are fully incorporated, contributing to the cake’s structure and moisture without causing it to curdle.
Step 5: Flavor with Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract for a fragrant boost that complements the richness of the cream cheese and butter perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour and salt to prevent lumps and ensure an even texture. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the cake will lose its tender crumb.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 75 to 85 minutes, or until a toothpick piercing the center comes out clean. This slow bake produces a perfectly golden crust that encapsulates the moist interior.
Step 8: Cool and Unmold
Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from breaking and helps it finish setting into that perfect texture.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Pound Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
While this cake shines on its own, adding simple yet elegant garnishes can elevate your serving experience. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries add a pop of color and a bright chewiness that contrasts delightfully with the cake’s richness. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of light glaze is another beautiful and tasty finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your pound cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to introduce creamy contrasts. For brunch, combining it with a fresh fruit salad or compote provides a refreshing balance, making each bite more dynamic and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your cream cheese pound cake and layer it with fresh fruit and mascarpone for a stunning trifle. Or, for an indulgent dessert, use slices to build a cake sandwich with chocolate ganache or lemon curd. These creative twists turn a beloved cake into a show-stopping centerpiece that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about this Cream Cheese Pound Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe is how well it keeps. Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain moisture and keeps the cake soft and tender.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this delicious cake later, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to two months without losing its flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake after refrigeration or freezing, simply let it thaw at room temperature, then warm individual slices gently in a microwave or oven for a few seconds. This brings back the freshly baked warmth and aroma that makes this pound cake so crave-worthy.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While low-fat cream cheese may seem like a healthier option, it can alter the texture and moisture level of the cake. For the best rich and tender crumb, full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended.
Is it necessary to sift the flour and salt?
Sifting ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly combined and helps prevent lumps, contributing to the cake’s smooth texture. It’s a simple step that makes a noticeable difference in the final bake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To adapt this Cream Cheese Pound Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for a gluten-free diet, substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. However, texture may vary slightly, so keep an eye on baking times.
Why does the recipe call for room temperature eggs?
Room temperature eggs blend more easily into the batter, helping it emulsify better and trap air for a lighter texture. Cold eggs can cause the batter to curdle and result in a denser cake.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick or thin skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked. If wet batter clings to it, give it additional time.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite indulgences to bake and share because it strikes the perfect balance between comforting simplicity and decadent flavor. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s loved by so many and why it’s an essential recipe for any baker’s repertoire. Grab your pan, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of this timeless delight. You won’t regret it!
Print
Cream Cheese Pound Cake: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the ultimate rich and moist dessert, combining the smooth creaminess of cream cheese with a dense, buttery pound cake texture. Perfect for any occasion, this classic American bundt cake offers a tender crumb and a delightful flavor, ideal served with berries, whipped cream, or a light glaze.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, creating a rich base for the batter.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, beating continuously for about 4–5 minutes until the batter is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the six large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully combine and maintain the batter’s smooth texture.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the tablespoon of vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor of the cake.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution and prevent lumps.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the sifted flour and salt mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cake texture.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 75–85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cake set and prevents it from breaking apart.
Notes
- This cake tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to settle.
- Store the cake tightly wrapped at room temperature to keep it moist and fresh, or freeze it for up to 2 months for longer storage.
- For an enhanced serving, accompany the cake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a light glaze of your choice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 80 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
