Classic pound cakes are a staple of any baking repertoire. Moist, rich, and indulgent, these beloved treats have been delighting dessert lovers for centuries. And why not? With their dense, buttery texture and subtle sweetness, it’s no wonder pound cakes remain a favorite among bakers and eaters alike.
But what makes a classic pound cake truly stand out is the variety of flavors that can be added to create unique and delicious twists on this timeless treat. From traditional vanilla bean to bold combinations like chocolate marble or lemon glazed, there’s a pound cake recipe out there for every taste and occasion.
In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouthwatering original pound cake recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and inspire your next baking adventure.
Traditional Vanilla Bean Pound Cake
Celebrate the simplicity of classic baking with this timeless vanilla bean pound cake recipe. Moist and flavorful, it’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
5. Stir in salt and vanilla bean.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
Lemon Glazed Original Pound Cake
This classic pound cake gets a bright and citrusy twist with a tangy lemon glaze, perfect for serving as a dessert or snack. With its moist texture and subtle sweetness, this cake is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 ounce) loaf pan
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare lemon glaze by whisking together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Brown Butter Pound Cake with Caramel Drizzle
This indulgent pound cake combines the nutty flavors of brown butter with a velvety caramel drizzle, creating a sweet and satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 ¾ cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup (180g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– Caramel drizzle: ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, 1/3 cup (60g) unsalted butter, and 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Brown the butter by cooking it in a skillet over medium heat until it turns golden brown and smells nutty.
3. Beat the eggs, then mix with the flour, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add the browned butter to the egg mixture and mix well.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing and serving with caramel drizzle.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Marble Original Pound Cake
A classic pound cake gets a luxurious twist with the addition of rich, velvety chocolate. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a treat for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler; fold into batter.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cream Cheese Swirl Pound Cake
Moist and flavorful, this pound cake gets a tangy twist with the addition of cream cheese swirled throughout. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound (450g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (250g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 3 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 ¾ cups (325g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (120g) cream cheese, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the dry batter mixture to the cream cheese, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Orange Blossom Honey Pound Cake
A sweet and fragrant dessert perfect for special occasions, this Orange Blossom Honey Pound Cake combines the warmth of honey with the brightness of orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup orange blossom honey
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Add honey and mix until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in orange zest.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Almond Flour Pound Cake with Berries
This recipe combines the richness of pound cake with the natural sweetness of fresh berries, all wrapped up in a delicate almond flour crust. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the mixed berries.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Lime Original Pound Cake
Moist and buttery pound cake gets a tropical boost with the addition of coconut and lime, creating a sweet and tangy treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in lime zest, juice, and coconut.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Chai Pound Cake with Icing
This moist and flavorful pound cake is infused with the warmth of chai spices, perfect for a cozy afternoon or evening gathering. The subtle sweetness and creamy icing make it an ideal dessert to serve at your next get-together.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Icing:
– Mix confectioners’ sugar with 2 tablespoons (30ml) whole milk until smooth.
– Drizzle over cooled cake and serve.
Maple Pecan Pound Cake
This decadent pound cake combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the crunch of toasted pecans, creating a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup (30g) chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Stir in maple syrup and toasted pecans.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Original Pound Cake
This moist and flavorful pound cake combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a springtime treat or a special occasion dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in blueberries. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Rosemary Infused Pound Cake
Rosemary Infused Pound Cake: A Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe
This moist and aromatic pound cake is infused with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for serving as a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in rosemary leaves, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Browned Butter Cinnamon Pound Cake
This moist and flavorful pound cake is elevated by the deep, nutty flavor of browned butter and the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Let the browned butter cool slightly before whisking in sugar, eggs, and milk.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Pistachio Rosewater Pound Cake
This elegant pound cake combines the nutty richness of pistachios with the subtle sweetness of rosewater, creating a unique and alluring dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Whisk together baking powder and rosewater; add to the wet ingredients.
4. Fold in chopped pistachios and salt.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dark Chocolate Espresso Pound Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this velvety dark chocolate espresso pound cake, packed with the bold flavors of French Roast coffee and deep, rich chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed French Roast coffee
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add brewed coffee to the wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Melt dark chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop; let cool slightly.
7. Fold melted chocolate into the batter until smooth.
8. Pour the batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Banana Nut Original Pound Cake
This moist and flavorful pound cake is infused with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the crunch of chopped nuts, perfect for a satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Gingerbread Spiced Pound Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is perfect for the holiday season, filled with the comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Serve it as a sweet treat or use it as a base for creative toppings like whipped cream or caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pound Cake
This moist pound cake is infused with the sweetness of strawberries and the tartness of rhubarb, creating a delightful combination that’s perfect for springtime gatherings or afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup diced rhubarb
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in flour, strawberries, rhubarb, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Lavender Honey Pound Cake
Lavender Honey Pound Cake: A Delicate Union of Floral Flavors and Rich Texture
This moist and fragrant pound cake combines the subtle sweetness of lavender with the warmth of honey, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and lavender buds; mix well.
4. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in honey until fully incorporated.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tiramisu Inspired Pound Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and creamy pound cake infused with the flavors of tiramisu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
– 1 cup (120g) strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Whisk in vanilla extract, flour, and salt.
4. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add milk, coffee, and mascarpone cheese.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich and buttery world of pound cake with these 20 classic original recipes! From traditional vanilla bean to decadent chocolate marble, each recipe offers a unique twist on the classic. Discover how browned butter adds depth to caramel drizzle, while orange blossom honey infuses warmth into a sweet treat. Explore flavor combinations like cream cheese swirl and almond flour with berries, or try something new like spiced chai with icing or pistachio rosewater. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect pound cake recipe for any occasion.
Leave a Reply