There are few things more satisfying than a slice of rich, buttery pound cake. This Sour Cream Pound Cake is a perfect combination of tender crumb, delightful sweetness, and a subtle hint of flavorings like vanilla and lemon.
It’s a versatile cake that can be served on its own with a simple dusting of powdered sugar or topped with fruit, whipped cream, or your favorite glaze for an added touch of indulgence. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a special celebration, or simply enjoying it with your afternoon tea, this classic pound cake is sure to please.
The addition of sour cream in this recipe creates a moist texture that will have you coming back for more, and the rich flavor from the butter and vanilla makes this cake a timeless favorite. So, preheat your oven and get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious homemade dessert!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 cup butter (or margarine)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1 teaspoon butter flavoring
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Make sure your tube pan is well-greased with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cream Sugar, Shortening, and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, vegetable shortening, and butter (or margarine). Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This process is crucial for creating the soft texture of the cake.
- Add Eggs: Once the sugar, shortening, and butter are well-creamed, add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Beat the mixture well after each addition to keep the batter smooth.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: After the eggs are mixed in, add the sour cream to the batter. Beat it in thoroughly until everything is smooth and well combined. Sour cream adds a moist texture to the cake and enhances the flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This step ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, helping the cake rise properly.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the flour mixture to the batter, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, adding it slowly to ensure the batter stays smooth and even. Mix just until combined after each addition.
- Flavor the Batter: Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon extract, and butter flavoring. These extracts work together to give the cake its signature, delightful aroma and flavor. Make sure everything is well-mixed.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Be patient during this step; the slow baking process allows the cake to rise and develop a golden-brown, crusty exterior while staying soft and moist on the inside.
- Cool and Serve: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can slice it and serve it plain or with your favorite topping.
Conclusion:
This Sour Cream Pound Cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Its moist texture, tender crumb, and rich flavor will make it a favorite for any occasion. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a festive celebration, or just a treat for yourself, this cake will never disappoint. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different glazes, fruits, or toppings to make it your own.
Baking a cake from scratch can be a rewarding experience, and this recipe ensures that even novice bakers can achieve a professional-quality dessert. Enjoy each delicious bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—they’ll surely be asking for the recipe!
