There's something timeless and comforting about a classic moist vanilla pound cake. With just a few simple ingredients, it becomes a dessert that transcends generations.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch (12-cup) bundt cake pan or tube pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Scrap the sides of the bowl periodically to make sure that everything is incorporated.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix the cake batter, as this can make the cake dense.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan or loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Since oven temperatures can vary, check for doneness at 1 hour. You don’t want to overbake this as baking time can vary.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes.
After it has cooled slightly, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake, and then invert it onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
Once the cake is completely cool, you can dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze, if desired.
Slice and enjoy your delicious moist vanilla pound cake!
This recipe serves 12 and is perfect for various occasions, from afternoon tea to dessert after a special dinner.
What Kind of Toppings Work Well with a Vanilla Bundt Cake?
A vanilla bundt cake is a versatile dessert that pairs well with a many toppings, adding both flavor and visual appeal. Here are some delicious toppings and garnishes that work beautifully with a vanilla bundt cake.Vanilla Ice Cream. This is a time-tested pairing with any cake. We always have some on hand as it adds just a touch of dairy goodness.Powdered Sugar. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is an elegant and classic choice. It adds a touch of sweetness and a snowy appearance to the cake. You can use a sifter or a fine-mesh strainer to evenly distribute the powdered sugar.Vanilla Glaze. Drizzling a vanilla-flavored glaze over the cake enhances the vanilla flavor and adds a glossy finish. To make a basic vanilla glaze, combine powdered sugar, a small amount of milk or cream, and a splash of vanilla extract until you achieve your desired consistency.Lemon Glaze. For a tangy twist, try a lemon glaze. It combines the sweetness of the cake with the zesty brightness of lemon. Lemon juice and zest mixed with powdered sugar make a delightful and refreshing glaze.Chocolate Ganache. Chocolate and vanilla are a classic pairing. A smooth, rich chocolate ganache drizzled over your vanilla bundt cake creates a beautiful contrast in flavors. You can make ganache by melting chocolate with cream or milk.Fruit Compote. Fresh fruit compote or a fruit sauce made from berries, peaches, or citrus fruits adds a burst of fruity flavor and a pop of color to your cake. It's a great way to balance the sweetness of the cake with natural fruitiness.Whipped Cream. A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a simple yet delightful choice. It adds a creamy, airy element that complements the cake's texture.Toasted Nuts. Chopped and toasted nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, can provide a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the vanilla. Sprinkle them over the glaze or frosting for added texture.Berries. Fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries are a vibrant and refreshing topping. They offer a burst of color and a juicy, fruity contrast to the cake.Caramel Sauce. Drizzling warm caramel sauce over a vanilla bundt cake adds a luscious, sweet caramel flavor and a beautiful, glossy finish.Edible Flowers. For an elegant touch, consider decorating your cake with edible flowers, such as pansies or violets. They add a touch of natural beauty and a subtle floral note.