If you’re a fan of classic Southern desserts that bring a rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth experience, then get ready to fall in love with the Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe. This decadent cake boasts a perfectly golden crust with a creamy, dense interior that’s sweet but never overwhelming. Each slice delivers that comforting, homemade taste that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm, delicious hug from the first bite. It’s truly a timeless treat that’s as impressive as it is easy to make, perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe to create the perfect texture and flavor profile. Every item plays a vital role, whether it’s lending moisture, richness, or the signature buttery taste that defines this pound cake.
- Unsalted butter (1 pound or 4 sticks): Using room temperature butter helps achieve that creamy, fluffy batter that’s essential for a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (3 cups): This provides the right amount of sweetness while helping create the cake’s golden crust.
- Large eggs (6, room temperature): Eggs add structure and richness, helping the cake rise evenly and maintain moisture.
- All-purpose flour (4 cups, sifted): Sifting the flour ensures a lighter, less dense final product by incorporating air and removing any lumps.
- Whole milk (1 cup, room temperature): Adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Essential for that classic aroma and depth of flavor that enhances every bite.
- Almond extract (1 teaspoon, optional): A subtle hint that takes this cake from ordinary to extraordinary, but totally optional if you prefer it classic.
How to Make Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a low 300F (150C). This lower temperature ensures the cake bakes slowly and evenly, preventing the crust from burning while the interior sets perfectly. Grease a bundt or tube pan thoughtfully, giving your cake an easy release and a smooth finish.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter until it turns creamy and light. This step is key to introducing air, which helps your cake rise. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat for 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture turn fluffy and glossy, a good sign you’re on the right track.
Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step ensures even distribution and prevents the batter from curdling. The eggs add moisture and richness, building the structure your cake needs without becoming dense.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Milk Alternately
Now comes the delicate balancing act: alternate adding the sifted flour and the room temperature milk to your batter. Start and finish with flour. This method keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake. Keep your mixing gentle and attentive.
Step 5: Stir in the Extracts
Fold in the pure vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. These extracts infuse the batter with that classic, irresistible aroma and flavor punch that sets the Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe apart.
Step 6: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Carefully pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly and looks inviting once out of the oven.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Bake for 85 to 95 minutes, but start checking at around 85 minutes. You want a toothpick inserted in the center to come out clean, signaling that the cake is cooked through but still moist inside. That golden crust you’ll see is the cake’s signature look and a promise of flavor.
Step 8: Cool Before Unmolding
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period helps it set so that when you turn it out, the cake won’t fall apart. After cooling, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of homemade vanilla glaze highlights the cake’s buttery texture and golden crust beautifully. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream take the indulgence to the next level and add a fresh, colorful contrast.
Side Dishes
The rich, dense nature of the Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or sweet tea for breakfast or afternoon snacks. For dessert, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit compote to balance richness with bright, juicy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your pound cake into mini trifle layers by cubing it and layering with whipped cream and berries. Or slice it thickly and lightly toast for a delightful breakfast treat. The dense crumb holds up well to creative additions like citrus curds or chocolate ganache drizzles, making it a versatile star in any kitchen.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and prevents it from drying out while retaining that signature tender crumb.
Freezing
Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To warm refrigerated or frozen slices, pop them into a preheated oven at 300F (150C) for about 10-15 minutes wrapped in foil. This gentle heat revives the cake’s buttery goodness without drying it out. You can also microwave a slice for around 15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce any additional salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty cake. Unsalted butter is preferred as it gives you control over seasoning.
Why do I need to sift the flour?
Sifting flour helps to aerate it and remove lumps, leading to a lighter, more tender crumb in your pound cake.
Can I make this cake without almond extract?
Absolutely! Almond extract is optional but adds a special dimension. If you don’t have it, simply leave it out and enjoy a classic vanilla flavor.
What type of pan works best?
A bundt or tube pan is ideal as it allows even baking and a beautiful presentation, but a standard loaf pan can also work with adjusted baking times.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Use the reliable toothpick test; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Also, the cake’s edges should slightly pull away from the pan.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe that turns everyday moments into celebrations. It’s a cake that feels like a warm hug, delivering rich flavor and comforting texture without fuss. I can’t wait for you to make it and share it with loved ones — it’s bound to become a beloved recipe in your collection just as it is in mine!
Print
Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
Description
A rich and buttery Million Dollar Pound Cake featuring a moist crumb and delicate hints of vanilla and almond. This classic southern dessert is perfect for celebratory occasions or an indulgent treat any day of the week.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound (4 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and generously grease a bundt or tube pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the room temperature unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which incorporates air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation and avoid curdling.
- Incorporate Flour and Milk: Alternately add the sifted flour and whole milk to the batter, starting and ending with flour. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the pure vanilla extract and optional almond extract into the batter for enhanced aroma and flavor.
- Pour and Smooth Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt or tube pan. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 85 to 95 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Remove from Pan: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes to set. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients help create a smooth and uniform batter.
- Sifting the flour ensures a lighter texture and removes lumps.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely depth to the vanilla flavor.
- Ensure not to overmix after adding flour to keep the cake moist and tender.
- Cooling the cake slightly in the pan helps prevent it from breaking when removing.
- Store leftovers tightly covered to maintain freshness for several days.
