If you’re searching for that show-stopping dessert that feels both classic and decadently rich, the Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This irresistibly moist and buttery cake combines simple ingredients in a way that delivers a tender crumb with just the right hint of sweetness. It’s the kind of recipe that makes every bite feel like pure indulgence, perfect for gatherings or a special treat when you want to impress yourself and everyone around you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color of this cake. From the creamy richness of butter to the tender lift of baking powder, these components come together beautifully to make this pound cake shine.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body to the cake, creating that classic pound cake texture.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds a slight lift to keep the pound cake from being too dense.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cake its rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening: Helps keep the cake moist and adds to the delicate texture.
- 3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering.
- 6 large eggs: Acts as a binder and contributes to the cake’s structure and richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Introduces warm, aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness, creating a soft yet dense crumb.
How to Make Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan thoroughly to ensure your cake releases perfectly after baking. Taking this step seriously helps achieve a flawless presentation every time.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps prevent lumps and ensures the rising agents are evenly distributed, which contributes to a consistent crumb throughout your cake.
Step 3: Cream the Butter, Shortening, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy. This process, typically 5-7 minutes, incorporates air to provide a lovely lift and the signature tenderness of a pound cake.
Step 4: Add the Eggs Gradually
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step prevents the batter from curdling and helps maintain a smooth texture. Then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse your cake with warmth and depth.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Cream
Gradually mix in the sifted dry ingredients, alternating with the heavy cream. Start and finish with the flour mixture. This technique keeps the batter balanced in moisture and prevents overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly for a uniformly baked cake. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time and temperature are crucial for achieving that golden crust with a moist interior.
Step 7: Cool and Release
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling partially in the pan helps the cake set up while releasing too soon may cause it to break or crumble.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once completely cooled, slice and serve your Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe. Whether plain or dressed up, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar works wonders to give a delicate visual appeal. For a more festive touch, fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream provide brightness and contrast to the cake’s rich flavor, making each bite feel fresh.
Side Dishes
Pair your pound cake with fruity compotes or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo. If you want to take it up a notch, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce complements the buttery notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake thinly and layering it with fresh fruit and cream to create a simple trifle. Alternatively, toasted slices served alongside coffee or tea elevate a casual afternoon gathering into something special and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pound cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the rich indulgence well beyond the initial serving day.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its moisture and texture.
Reheating
To refresh slices of pound cake, warm them gently in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and aroma, perfect for serving warm alongside your favorite toppings.
FAQs
Can I substitute the vegetable shortening?
Yes! You can substitute vegetable shortening with an equal amount of butter for an even richer flavor, though it may slightly alter the texture. Some bakers also use margarine or coconut oil as alternatives, but butter remains the classic choice for that authentic cake crumb.
Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?
Sifting is highly recommended as it breaks up clumps and ensures even distribution of the baking powder and salt. This step helps your cake rise uniformly and prevents dense spots in the crumb.
Can I use a different pan shape?
While a 10-inch bundt or tube pan is ideal for even baking and beautiful presentation, you can use a loaf pan or two 8-inch round pans. Just adjust baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on doneness with a toothpick test.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The most reliable test is inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. When it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging, your pound cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While the classic recipe is truly delightful on its own, many enjoy adding lemon zest, almond extract, or folding in chopped nuts or dried fruit. Just be careful not to overload the batter to maintain the cake’s tender texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe that makes it a beloved staple in any baker’s repertoire. With its rich flavor, tender crumb, and versatile nature, it’s a cake worth making to celebrate both everyday moments and special occasions. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience just how wonderfully satisfying this classic pound cake can be!
Print
Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Million Dollar Pound Cake is a rich, moist, and decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. Featuring a tender crumb and buttery flavor, this classic pound cake is elevated with heavy cream and a combination of butter and vegetable shortening to achieve the perfect texture and taste. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick after baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream butter, shortening and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes to incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the cake’s flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the heavy cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix as that can make the cake dense.
- Pour batter into pan: Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared bundt or tube pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes to set, then carefully remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Slice and serve the pound cake as is, or dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries to enhance its richness and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the butter and shortening are softened to room temperature to cream properly and create a light texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients to avoid a dense cake.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; if it comes out with batter, bake a little longer.
- This pound cake tastes great on its own but can be paired with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a glaze for extra decadence.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
