Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan, ensuring it’s evenly coated so your cake comes out easily after baking.
2️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, shortening, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3️⃣ Add the Eggs: One at a time, add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one. This helps to create a smooth, rich batter.
4️⃣ Add the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5️⃣ Add the Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavor.
6️⃣ Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt or tube pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7️⃣ Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, slice and serve.
Pro Tips for Perfect Black People’s Pound Cake:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine more easily and creates a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to be dense. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
- Cake Too Dry? If your cake is too dry after baking, try adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter for extra moisture.
Why You’ll Love Black People’s Pound Cake:
- Buttery & Flavorful: This cake is a perfect balance of buttery richness with a hint of vanilla, making it a decadent treat for any occasion.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, birthday, or just a family gathering, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Simple Yet Elegant: It may be easy to make, but it tastes like a dessert from a bakery. You can even dress it up with powdered sugar or a glaze for extra flair.
- Comforting & Classic: This recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations, offering a taste of nostalgia with every bite.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 70g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQ About Black People’s Pound Cake:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooled cake for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I substitute the shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute with additional butter. However, shortening helps achieve a more tender crumb.
Common Problems and Fixes:
- Cake Not Rising?
Ensure that your baking soda or powder is fresh and hasn’t expired. You can also check the oven temperature with an oven thermometer to make sure it’s accurate. - Cake Too Dense?
Overmixing or using cold ingredients can cause this. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid this issue.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Lemon Pound Cake: Add the zest of 1 lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Almond Pound Cake: Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Spiced Pound Cake: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, spiced version of the classic pound cake.
Why Black People’s Pound Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion:
This cake is ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday parties. Its rich, moist texture and sweet flavor make it the perfect dessert to share with friends and family. Whether served plain or with a scoop of ice cream or fruit, this pound cake never fails to impress.
Success with Black People’s Pound Cake:
This cake is a guaranteed hit every time. Its buttery richness and timeless flavor are sure to make it a favorite for years to come. It’s a recipe that has been cherished for generations and will bring warmth and sweetness to your kitchen.
For more beloved cake recipes, try Southern Red Velvet Cake or Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
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