Description

This is the cake that stayed wrapped in foil on my mama’s counter. No frosting. No fuss. Just quiet confidence. You could smell it down the hallway. You could feel it before the first bite. Some recipes don’t chase trends. They wait for you to come back. This cake is easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for a Holiday dinner.

Ingredients

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
4 sticks unsalted butter (2 cups), softened
3 cups granulated sugar
7 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3½ cups cake flour

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which results in a tender cake.

Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 4: Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix at this stage.

Step 5: Gradually fold in the cake flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough cake.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 75–85 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top.

Step 8: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cake in the pan helps it to retain its shape and prevents it from sticking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is beloved for its simplicity and exceptional flavor. The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a moist, tender crumb with a rich, tangy flavor. The cake is versatile, requiring no frosting or elaborate decoration, making it perfect for any occasion. Its comforting aroma and taste evoke feelings of nostalgia and home-baked goodness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
Offer with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese.
Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Tips

Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature for optimal blending.
Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a more tender crumb.
Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a tough cake.
If the cake starts to brown too quickly during baking, tent it loosely with foil.
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

75-85 minutes

Total Time

95-105 minutes

Nutrition Information

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes)

Calories: Approximately 450-550 per slice
Protein: 6-8g per slice
Sodium: 150-200mg per slice

Conclusion

The Million Dollar Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a timeless recipe that delivers exceptional flavor and texture with minimal effort. Its simple elegance and comforting taste make it a favorite for any occasion, embodying the essence of home-baked goodness. Whether enjoyed as a casual treat or a festive dessert, this cake is sure to impress and leave a lasting impression.

Questions and Answers

Q1: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour? A: While you can, cake flour is recommended for a more tender crumb. If using all-purpose flour, reduce the amount by 2 tablespoons per cup.

Q2: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan? A: Make sure to grease and flour the pan thoroughly before pouring in the batter. You can also use a baking spray that contains flour.

Q3: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Q4: What can I add to the batter for extra flavor? A: You can add lemon zest, almond extract, or a hint of nutmeg for extra flavor. Chocolate chips or chopped nuts can also be added.

Q5: The top of my cake is browning too quickly. What should I do? A: If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.