Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a rich, moist, and tender dessert that brings comfort and indulgence to any occasion. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang, ensuring a delicate crumb, while the creamy, sweet glaze adds an irresistible finish. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special gathering, this classic cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

Tender and Moist: The buttermilk creates a soft, flavorful crumb that melts in your mouth.
Classic Vanilla Flavor: A comforting, aromatic vanilla taste that’s universally loved.
Cream Cheese Glaze: A luscious, tangy-sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the cake.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this cake a breeze to prepare.
Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead of time, as it freezes wonderfully for future enjoyment.

Ingredients:

For the Pound Cake:

3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups (500g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan or loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by the milk, and mix until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Glaze the Cake:

Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving and Storage:

Servings: Makes 10-12 slices.
Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without the glaze. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze before serving.

Variations:

Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest and juice to both the cake batter and the glaze for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Glaze: Substitute the cream cheese glaze with a rich chocolate ganache.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

FAQs:

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
- Yes, you can substitute with 1 cup of milk and 1 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Can I make this cake without a mixer?
- Absolutely! Use a whisk or wooden spoon to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese in the glaze?
- Mascarpone cheese or a simple powdered sugar glaze works well.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
- Grease and flour the pan well, ensuring it’s covered in every crevice.
Can I bake this in a different pan?
- Yes! You can use a loaf pan or even a 9×13-inch pan, but make sure to adjust the baking time.

Conclusion:

This Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful dessert with a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply enjoying a comforting treat, this cake is a must-try!