Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake
There's something special about a homemade cake that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweet aromas, creating a comforting atmosphere from the first bite. The vanilla buttermilk pound cake is a soft, rich, and versatile treat that can be enjoyed as both breakfast and dessert. Whether you start your morning with a slice and a cup of coffee or enjoy it as a sweet treat after dinner, this cake is perfect for any occasion. It’s great for celebrations, family gatherings, or a cozy afternoon at home, bringing a simple yet satisfying touch to any moment.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk at room temperature
- Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 –3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or loaf pan, making sure all corners are coated well.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, which takes about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake before serving.
Notes
How to Serve Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake
This buttermilk pound cake is soft, rich, and delicious on its own, but you can make it even better with a few serving ideas. Drizzle it with a light glaze, dust it with powdered sugar, or serve it with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. A scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream adds a creamy element, while a cup of hot coffee or tea pairs beautifully with its buttery texture. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat!
How to Store Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, you can also refrigerate it for about a week.
Tips to Make Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake
Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
For added flavor, try using vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract. Variation You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit to the batter for a fun twist on this classic recipe!
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
For added flavor, try using vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract. Variation You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit to the batter for a fun twist on this classic recipe!