Classic Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe with Butter

A buttery vanilla loaf cake with a tender crumb and golden crust.

By Savva LoginovUpdated
Total 1 hr 15 minMakes 10 slices
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This classic pound cake creams butter and sugar until fluffy, then adds eggs, vanilla and flour in stages with milk to keep the batter smooth. Bake until a skewer comes out clean and let the loaf cool before slicing. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 23 x 13 cm loaf pan. Beat butter and sugar 3 to 4 minutes until pale and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. Scrape bowl as needed. Whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Add to butter mixture in 3 additions, alternating with milk; mix only until combined. Spoon into pan and bake 50 to 60 minutes, until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes in pan, then transfer to a rack.

Classic Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe with Butter

Recipe card

Classic Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe with Butter

Prep 20 minCook 55 minTotal 1 hr 15 minYield 10 slices
Only numbered ingredient amounts change.

Equipment: Measuring tools, mixing bowl and suitable pan

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prepare pan

    Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 23 x 13 cm loaf pan.

  2. Cream

    Beat butter and sugar 3 to 4 minutes until pale and fluffy.

  3. Add eggs

    Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. Scrape bowl as needed.

  4. Finish batter

    Whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Add to butter mixture in 3 additions, alternating with milk; mix only until combined.

  5. Bake

    Spoon into pan and bake 50 to 60 minutes, until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes in pan, then transfer to a rack.

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender and evenly heated as described.

Tips

  • Measure ingredients before beginning.
  • Use evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
  • Cool and store leftovers promptly.

Troubleshooting

  • If mixture is too wet, add binder gradually.
  • If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

  • Use a compatible neutral oil if needed.
  • Choose suitable alternatives for dietary needs.

Variations

  • Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
  • Add a suitable seasonal ingredient.

Serving suggestions

  • Serve with a fresh seasonal side.
  • Pair with bread, rice or another suitable accompaniment.
  • Offer a complementary sauce or topping.
  • Serve warm or chilled as directed.

Make ahead

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate perishable ingredients; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains wheat, egg and dairy. Cool completely before wrapping or storing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly; finish close to serving.

How should I store classic pound cake?

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

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