Southern Pound Cake Recipe

The Southern Pound Cake Recipe is a cherished classic that has stood the test of time across generations of bakers. This cake is rich, buttery, and soft with a tight, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. The aroma of vanilla and butter fills your kitchen as it bakes, creating a dessert that feels like home. Whether you serve it plain, with berries, or a scoop of ice cream, this traditional Southern treat always delivers. It’s simple, elegant, and deeply comforting—the kind of cake that makes you feel welcome wherever it’s served.

Why Southern Pound Cake Is So Special

A cake with heritage

Southern bakers have been perfecting pound cake recipes for decades, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. What makes this version special is its texture—dense yet soft, never dry or heavy. The slow creaming of butter and sugar creates a smooth, silky batter that gives the cake its signature fine crumb. Every slice is rich but balanced, making it ideal for any occasion.

A balance of richness and lightness

This cake achieves the perfect balance between buttery richness and subtle sweetness. The whole milk keeps the batter smooth, while the baking powder adds just enough lift for a light, moist texture. A hint of lemon zest brightens the flavour, and the vanilla extract ties everything together. It’s a dessert that feels luxurious yet simple enough to bake any day of the week.

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Ingredients and Their Purpose

What you’ll need

Here are the ingredients that make this cake so unforgettable:

• Three cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• Three cups granulated sugar
• Six large eggs, room temperature
• One cup whole milk, room temperature
• One and a half cups unsalted butter, softened
• One tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• One teaspoon baking powder
• One quarter teaspoon fine sea salt
• One tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

These ingredients work together to create the perfect texture. The butter and sugar give structure and flavour, while the eggs bind the batter. The milk adds moisture, and the baking powder gives it just enough lift without making it airy. The salt enhances the sweetness, and the vanilla and lemon zest add that signature Southern warmth.

Ingredient tips and swaps

If you prefer a slightly tangy note, you can replace half of the milk with buttermilk. For a nutty flavour, add a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. Cake flour can also be used for a lighter crumb, though all-purpose flour gives that traditional Southern density. Always use room temperature ingredients to help everything blend evenly.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preparing the pan and ingredients

Grease a ten-inch Bundt or tube pan generously with butter, then dust with flour. This ensures a smooth release after baking. Preheat the oven to three hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit. This lower temperature allows the cake to bake evenly without over-browning.

Mixing the batter

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed for about two minutes until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating for five to seven minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which creates that perfect Southern crumb. Crack the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, then beat briefly to combine.

Combining and Baking

Adding the dry and wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until each addition is incorporated. Overmixing at this stage can make the cake tough, so take care to stop once the batter looks smooth.

Baking to perfection

Pour the thick, creamy batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for one hour and fifteen to twenty five minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top will be golden brown with a slightly crisp crust.

Cooling and Serving

Cooling the cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for fifteen to twenty minutes before removing it. This rest allows the crumb to set and prevents breaking. Invert the cake onto a wire rack and cool completely for at least one hour. Once cooled, the cake slices beautifully and holds its shape.

How to serve

Serve thick slices of Southern Pound Cake with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. It also pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a drizzle of vanilla glaze. For brunch, enjoy it plain with coffee or tea. The buttery crumb and subtle vanilla flavour make it a perfect companion for both sweet and savoury moments.

Tips for a Perfect Southern Pound Cake

Mix with patience

The creaming step is the heart of this recipe. Take your time beating the butter and sugar together. This process traps air in the batter, giving the cake a lighter texture. When adding eggs, incorporate them slowly to maintain the emulsion.

Keep it even and moist

Avoid opening the oven during baking, especially in the first hour. Sudden temperature changes can cause the cake to sink. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil. Always test for doneness before removing the cake to ensure the centre is cooked through.

Variations and Additions

Adding flavour twists

For a festive version, stir in half a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts. You can also fold in mini chocolate chips or coconut flakes for a fun variation. If you want a citrus boost, drizzle the cooled cake with a light lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice.

Related recipe to try

If you love this traditional Southern recipe, you’ll enjoy the Easy Triple Berry Dump Cake. It’s another classic that brings together simple ingredients and nostalgic flavour. Both desserts prove that homemade baking never goes out of style.

Storage and Freezing

Keeping it fresh

Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The butter keeps it moist and tender, so it stays fresh longer than many other cakes. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate it for up to a week. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing for later

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or place individual slices in freezer-safe bags. It keeps for up to two months. To serve, thaw it overnight at room temperature. The texture and flavour remain just as delicious after freezing.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

Why did my pound cake crack on top?

A crack on top is completely normal for pound cakes. It happens as the batter expands in the oven. This signature split is part of its rustic charm and ensures a perfectly baked interior.

Why is my cake dense or dry?

If the butter and sugar weren’t creamed long enough, the batter may lack air. Also, overmixing after adding flour can create a dense texture. Follow the mixing times carefully, and you’ll achieve that soft, fine crumb every time.

FAQ

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, a hand mixer works perfectly. Just increase the mixing time slightly during the creaming step to ensure enough air is incorporated.

Can I add glaze to this cake?
Absolutely. A simple glaze of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla adds sweetness and shine without overpowering the flavour.

Can I bake it in loaf pans instead of a Bundt pan?
Yes. Divide the batter between two loaf pans and reduce the baking time to about one hour.

Conclusion

This Southern Pound Cake Recipe is everything you want in a homemade dessert. It’s buttery, moist, and rich, with a fine crumb that feels smooth on your tongue. The slow creaming and low baking temperature give it that signature Southern character—soft, comforting, and timeless. Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed the next day, this cake always impresses. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to earn a spot among your favourite go-to recipes.