Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both indulgent and timeless, Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a perfect choice. This cake strikes the ideal balance between rich and tender, offering a buttery, smooth texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that evokes comfort and warmth, often making an appearance at family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy afternoon treat. What makes this pound cake extra special is the addition of cream cheese, which adds a subtle tang and velvety softness, making each slice a pure joy to eat.

As someone who enjoys baking with simple ingredients but still loves a show-stopping result, I can tell you that this recipe is a winner. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Cream Cheese Pound Cake will have everyone asking for the recipe. Plus, it’s the kind of cake that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re probably wondering what sets this Cream Cheese Pound Cake apart from other pound cakes. Here are a few reasons why this cake is so irresistible:

Creamy Texture: The addition of cream cheese makes the cake incredibly moist, with a delicate crumb that’s soft yet firm enough to hold its shape.
Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find ingredients—just butter, sugar, eggs, and cream cheese come together to create magic.
Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The subtle tang of cream cheese adds complexity to the sweetness of the cake, making each bite satisfying without being overly sugary.
Versatile: Serve it plain for a no-fuss dessert, or dress it up with fruit, a glaze, or whipped cream for special occasions.
Family Favorite: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for a crowd.
Perfect for Any Skill Level: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is simple to follow, with easily achievable results.
Make-Ahead: This cake gets even better after a day or two, so it’s perfect for prepping in advance.
Great for Celebrations: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or just a special family dinner, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12-16 slices
Calories per slice: Approximately 300 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients to make this delightful Cream Cheese Pound Cake:

For the Cake:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
3 cups granulated sugar
6 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking powder

Ingredient Highlights

Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy richness to the cake, keeping it moist and creating a tender crumb.
Butter: The foundation of any good pound cake, butter provides richness and flavor.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Vanilla and Almond Extracts: The combination of vanilla and a hint of almond adds depth to the flavor, making it extra aromatic.
Baking Powder: Helps give the cake a light rise without losing its dense, buttery texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Cream Cheese Pound Cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is important because the cake needs a moderate heat to bake slowly and evenly, ensuring a perfectly tender crumb.
Grease the Pan: Grease a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan with butter or cooking spray. Then, lightly dust with flour, tapping out the excess. This helps the cake release easily once it’s baked.

Mix the Batter

Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until they’re light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps create a smooth, creamy base for your cake.
Add the Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy.
Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help prevent curdling and ensure that the eggs blend evenly into the batter.
Add the Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). These extracts will bring a lovely, aromatic flavor to the cake.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt.
Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with small amounts of milk (about 1/4 cup at a time). Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in a dense cake.

Bake the Cake

Pour the Batter into the Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt or tube pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top of the batter evenly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake after the 1-hour mark, as baking times can vary depending on the size and type of pan used.
Cool: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

Once your Cream Cheese Pound Cake is cool, here are a few ways you can serve it:

Plain and Simple: Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a pound cake is without any extras—just a thick slice with a cup of tea or coffee.
With Fresh Berries: Serve slices of cake with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fresh, fruity contrast to the richness of the cake.
Whipped Cream: Top the cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Fruit Compote: Serve with a homemade berry compote or peach sauce for a deliciously sweet pairing.
Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a lemon glaze over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.

Additional Tips

Maximize your enjoyment of Cream Cheese Pound Cake with these helpful tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are all at room temperature before mixing. This will help them blend together more easily and create a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
Check the Cake: Make sure to check the cake at the 1-hour mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done!
Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This helps the cake hold its shape and prevents it from breaking.
Store Properly: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Add Zest: For a citrus twist, add some lemon or orange zest to the batter. It will brighten the flavor and add an extra layer of complexity.

Recipe Variations

Consider these creative variations for your Cream Cheese Pound Cake:

Lemon Pound Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a tangy lemon twist.
Almond Pound Cake: Increase the almond extract to 1 teaspoon for a stronger almond flavor.
Chocolate Chip Pound Cake: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
Cinnamon Swirl Pound Cake: Add a cinnamon-sugar swirl to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Berry-Filled Pound Cake: Add fresh or frozen berries to the batter for a burst of fruity flavor.

Freezing and Storage

To keep your Cream Cheese Pound Cake fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Refrigerate: If you live in a warm climate, you may want to refrigerate the cake to maintain its freshness.
Freeze: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for the best texture.

FAQ SECTION

Before you dive into making this delightful Cream Cheese Pound Cake, here are some commonly asked questions to help ensure your baking experience goes smoothly. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, these tips and answers will help you achieve the perfect cake every time!

How do I know when the pound cake is done baking?
Check with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Golden brown: The top should be golden brown, and the cake should slightly pull away from the edges of the pan.
Can I use a different type of pan for this cake?
Yes! While a bundt or tube pan works best, you can use a regular loaf pan or even a 9×13-inch baking dish. Just adjust the baking time slightly, as thinner pans may bake faster.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the kind of dessert that becomes a family favorite, with its perfectly tender crumb and rich flavor. It’s simple yet impressive, making it a great option for any occasion. Whether you keep it classic or get creative with toppings, this cake is sure to bring smiles to the table.

Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations!