Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
This Million Dollar Pound Cake is a classic, rich, and buttery dessert with a tender crumb, enhanced by the delicate flavors of vanilla and almond extracts. Baked slowly at a low temperature to ensure a moist and fluffy texture, this recipe is perfect for any celebration or as a comforting treat with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.
- Author: luca
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 large pound cake (approximately 12-16 servings) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 pound salted butter (softened, 4 sticks)
- 6 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk OR buttermilk
- 1 Tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Butter and flour an angel food pan (tube pan) with a removable bottom or spray it thoroughly with baking spray. Set aside while preparing the batter.
- Whip Butter and Extracts: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the softened butter together with the vanilla and almond extracts on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add Sugar Gradually: Switch to the paddle attachment and gradually add the granulated sugar while beating at medium speed. Continue mixing for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture turns a pale yellow color, indicating it’s well aerated.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary to ensure an even mix.
- Add Flour and Milk Alternately: Lower the mixer speed and add the sifted flour alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Pause occasionally to scrape the sides of the bowl for an even batter.
- Final Mix: Once all ingredients are in the mixer, beat the batter for an additional 1 minute. This ensures full incorporation without overmixing, which can affect the cake’s texture.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared angel food pan. Gently tap or bounce the pan on the counter to settle the batter and expel any air bubbles.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked but still moist.
- Initial Cooling: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Then carefully remove the outer ring of the pan without damaging the cake.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the cake onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving to achieve the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using softened butter is essential for properly whipping it and achieving the right texture.
- Sifting the flour helps avoid lumps and ensures an even, fluffy cake.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, use buttermilk instead of whole milk.
- Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- The low baking temperature helps maintain moisture and prevents the cake from drying out.
- Using an angel food pan with a removable bottom makes removing the cake easier and preserves its shape.
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