Simple Pound Cake

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

4 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add the Eggs:

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, making the cake lighter.

Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.

Combine the Ingredients:

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Bake the Cake:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and serve as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar, a glaze, or fresh berries.

This simple pound cake is perfect on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. Its rich, buttery flavor makes it a timeless dessert that’s sure to please!