Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a cake that feels like a warm hug, rich in buttery flavor and tender crumb, then the Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This cake blends the tanginess of buttermilk with a luscious vanilla profile and finishes with a smooth, creamy glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness to elevate every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of homemade comfort, this recipe delivers a truly irresistible treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of classic ingredients that come together harmoniously, creating a tender, moist pound cake topped with a velvety glaze. Each element plays a crucial role: the buttermilk gives a subtle tang and tenderizes the crumb, the butter brings richness and depth, and the vanilla extract infuses aromatic warmth.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation providing structure and that perfect cake crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently for a light texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Balances acidity from the buttermilk for the perfect rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and tenderness, essential for pound cake.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while creating a beautiful golden crust.
• 4 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the moistness.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Provides that classic, comforting vanilla flavor.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Offers tanginess and moisture, keeping the cake perfectly soft.
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: For the silky cream cheese glaze that crowns the cake.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a flawless finish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the glaze with additional vanilla goodness.

How to Make Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure consistent baking. Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan to prevent sticking and guarantee a beautiful cake release. This may seem simple, but it’s the first key step toward a flawless pound cake.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed. Setting this blend aside allows you to alternate with the wet ingredients when mixing, ensuring even distribution and a perfect crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer at medium speed, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aeration helps your pound cake rise beautifully and adds a delicate texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Then mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with its signature warm aroma. Taking your time here prevents the batter from curdling and maintains that creamy smoothness.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Mix and Buttermilk

Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix each addition just until combined without overmixing—overworking the batter could make the cake tough instead of tender.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake. Bake for 60-70 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step takes patience but results in a gorgeously golden cake with a moist crumb inside.

Step 7: Cool Before Glazing

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack and let it cool completely before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and flowing off, ensuring a glossy, thick topping.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the cake is cooling, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating fully after each addition to create a silky, sweet glaze. Stir in vanilla extract for that extra burst of vanilla flavor that perfectly complements the cake.

Step 9: Glaze and Finish

Once cooled, generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top of the pound cake. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing to enjoy, giving you that irresistibly luscious finish every bite deserves.

How to Serve Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh berries adds a pop of color and a fresh note that balances the glaze’s sweetness. Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts also provide a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the cake’s tender texture.

Side Dishes

This pound cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. For a refreshing touch, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a vibrant berry compote to brighten up the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into neat wedges and stack them on a fancy platter drizzled with extra glaze and fresh mint leaves. For a unique twist, turn slices into layered mini trifles with whipped cream and fruit, impressing guests with an elegant yet easy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain moisture. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated in an airtight container, which will maintain freshness for up to a week without drying out the cake or glaze.

Freezing

You can freeze the pound cake before glazing by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then add the cream cheese glaze fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven to bring back that freshly baked warmth. Add extra glaze or whipped cream after reheating for an irresistible treat reminiscent of just-out-of-the-oven freshness.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

While buttermilk is preferred for its tang and tenderizing effects, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This works well in the Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe.

What type of pan is best for this pound cake?

A 10-inch bundt or tube pan is ideal because it promotes even baking and creates a stunning shape. The hole in the center helps the heat circulate, ensuring the cake cooks uniformly without drying out.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached, the cake is done. This simple test guarantees a perfectly baked, moist pound cake every time.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the cream cheese glaze can be made a day in advance. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator, and give it a quick stir before drizzling over the cake. Freshly made glaze, however, provides the creamiest texture.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe is straightforward and rewarding, making it a wonderful choice for bakers of all skill levels. Just take your time with mixing and cooling, and you’ll have an impressive homemade cake to be proud of.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sharing a homemade cake that everyone raves about, and this Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe is just the one to do it. With its tender crumb, rich flavor, and luscious glaze, it’s a dessert that invites smiles and seconds. I truly hope you have as much joy baking and eating this cake as I do when making it for friends and family. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you’re going to love every bite!

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