Every once in a while, a dessert comes along that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate. This Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is exactly that kind of treat. Rich, moist, and incredibly tender, it combines the velvety depth of cream cheese with the buttery goodness of a classic pound cake, resulting in a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s an everyday indulgence or the star of your next celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting this Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is surprisingly simple because it relies on a handful of essential, high-quality ingredients. Each one contributes to the cake’s luxurious texture, flavor, and beautiful golden color.
- Unsalted butter (1 1/2 cups): Provides richness and a tender crumb while giving the cake its moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Cream cheese (8 oz): Adds a subtle tang and velvety smoothness that sets this pound cake apart from the rest.
- Granulated sugar (3 cups): Sweetens the cake perfectly and helps achieve that golden-brown crust you’ll love.
- Large eggs (6): They bind the ingredients while adding structure and a lovely, rich flavor.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): Forms the base of the cake, giving it the right density and tenderness.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Ensures a delicate lift, so your pound cake isn’t heavy or dense.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors perfectly, balancing the sweetness and richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses the cake with a warm, comforting aroma and taste that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly. Ensuring every nook and cranny is covered helps the cake release easily after baking, preserving its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it creates the base for an ultra-smooth batter that results in a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually
Slowly add the granulated sugar to the creamed mixture while beating continuously. This helps dissolve the sugar, incorporating air that contributes to a light texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs One at a Time
Add the eggs individually, beating well after each one. This ensures they blend seamlessly into the batter, giving the cake structure without any heaviness.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing on low speed only until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Step 6: Stir in Vanilla Extract
Gently fold in the vanilla extract, evenly distributing its sweet aroma throughout the batter.
Step 7: Pour Batter into the Pan
Pour the smooth batter into your prepared bundt pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, making sure it’s evenly spread for consistent baking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. The perfect sign of doneness is a golden-brown top and a toothpick inserted in the center that comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Remove from Pan
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a wire rack. This prevents breakage and lets the cake set properly.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Once cooled completely, slice the cake and enjoy it plain or with your favorite embellishments like powdered sugar or whipped cream for an extra special touch.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe shines on its own but pairing it with simple garnishes can elevate the experience. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and an elegant touch, while a dollop of freshly whipped cream can complement the cake’s richness beautifully. Fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit compote work wonders too, adding color and a fruity brightness.
Side Dishes
This pound cake pairs wonderfully with a wide range of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit salads or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. A cup of hot coffee or a fragrant tea can round out the dessert experience perfectly, making it ideal for brunches, afternoon treats, or after-dinner delights.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, try layering slices of the cake with mascarpone and fresh berries to create an indulgent trifle. You could also stack slices with alternating layers of pastry cream or lemon curd for a zesty twist that will wow your guests. Even serving small individual slices on pretty dessert plates with edible flowers can make the simplest moment feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your space is warm, refrigerating the cake in a sealed container will help maintain its moist texture for up to a week.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place slices in freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pound cake can be stored for up to three months without losing quality.
Reheating
Thaw frozen pound cake at room temperature. When you want it warm, gently heat slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or place in a low-temp oven for a few minutes to bring back that freshly-baked warmth and softness.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While low-fat cream cheese can be used, the traditional full-fat version gives the cake its characteristic richness and moistness. Using low-fat may result in a slightly drier cake.
Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?
Sifting helps combine the baking powder, salt, and flour evenly and removes any lumps, ensuring a smooth, uniform batter. Skipping this step might not ruin the cake but can affect texture slightly.
Can I substitute the bundt pan with a regular loaf pan?
You can bake this cake in a 9×5-inch loaf pan, but baking times may vary. Start checking at the 50-minute mark and adjust as needed until a toothpick comes out clean.
Why is the oven temperature set lower than usual?
Baking at 325°F rather than a higher temperature ensures the cake cooks slowly and evenly, preventing the edges from over-browning while the center finishes baking perfectly.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Also, the top should have a nice golden color.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that feels timeless yet comforting, this Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is calling your name. It’s a wonderfully straightforward recipe that delivers maximum flavor and texture—perfect for sharing with friends, family, or simply enjoying by yourself with a cup of coffee. Once you try it, this cake will quickly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
