This Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Its dense, buttery texture makes it the perfect base for toppings like fruit glazes or whipped cream. This traditional recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon tea.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Pan
- Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 4: Add Eggs
- Step 5: Incorporate Flour
- Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Step 7: Cool Down
- How to Serve Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Classic Serving Suggestions
- Creative Toppings
- How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Reheating Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know when my Old Fashioned Pound Cake is done?
- Can I add flavors to my Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
- What toppings go well with Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich, satisfying taste that pairs wonderfully with various toppings.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it plain, glazed, or with fresh fruit; this cake adapts to your preferences and seasonal ingredients.
- Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, this pound cake is ideal for gatherings, ensuring everyone gets a slice of nostalgia.
- Lasting Freshness: This cake stays moist and flavorful for days, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying over time.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, it’s helpful to gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience and ensure success with this Old Fashioned Pound Cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Tube pan: The shape allows for even baking and easy cooling since the center has more airflow.
- Electric mixer: Ensures your butter and sugar are creamed properly, yielding a light texture in the cake.
- Rubber spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Old Fashioned Pound Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
How to Make Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease and flour a tube pan. This step is crucial for preventing sticking when you remove your cake after baking.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture turns light in color, resembling a pale yellow.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add the large eggs, one at a time. Mix thoroughly after each addition until each egg is fully incorporated into the batter.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour. Do this slowly, measuring out half a cup at a time while mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared tube pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
After baking, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously moist Old Fashioned Pound Cake, perfect on its own or dressed up with toppings!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer it plain or dressed up with toppings, there are numerous serving suggestions to elevate this classic dessert.
Classic Serving Suggestions
- Sliced with Butter: Serve warm slices with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
- Fresh Berries: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy touch.
- Glaze Drizzle: A simple sugar glaze can add sweetness and shine to your pound cake.
Creative Toppings
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for chocolate lovers.
- Ice Cream Scoop: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delicious combination of textures.
- Fruit Compote: Serve with homemade fruit compote for an elegant finish.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Creating the perfect Old Fashioned Pound Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and delicious.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to prevent a dense cake.
- Grease the Pan Well: Proper greasing prevents sticking and helps in easy removal.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to make sure your oven is at the correct baking temperature.
- Cool Gradually: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to avoid breakage.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pound Cake
Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Pound Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavor.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the richness of the pound cake.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle on top for a sweet and sticky addition that enhances every bite.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Offers a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with this buttery cake.
- Lemon Curd: The tangy flavor of lemon curd brightens each slice of pound cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: A rich, creamy mousse adds an indulgent layer to your dessert table.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a light counterpart to the dense cake texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an Old Fashioned Pound Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated.
- Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can hinder the batter’s ability to rise. Always use room temperature eggs for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the cake’s balance. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.
- Skipping the creaming process: Creaming butter and sugar is crucial for aeration. Take your time during this step to achieve a light cake.
- Not letting it cool properly: Removing the cake too soon from the pan can cause it to collapse. Allow it to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap for freshness.
Freezing Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Freeze slices or whole cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
Reheating Old Fashioned Pound Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat wrapped slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power in short bursts of 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Old Fashioned Pound Cake.
How do I know when my Old Fashioned Pound Cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also spring back when lightly pressed.
Can I add flavors to my Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
Yes! You can add vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest for added flavor. Just mix it in with the wet ingredients.
What toppings go well with Old Fashioned Pound Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or fruit glazes. Get creative with your favorite toppings!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a delightful treat that brings back nostalgic memories while being versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you enjoy it plain or dress it up with toppings, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to make this classic recipe your own!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintOld Fashioned Pound Cake
Old Fashioned Pound Cake is a delightful, nostalgic dessert that captures the essence of home baking. With its rich, buttery flavor and dense texture, this classic cake is perfect for any occasion—whether served plain or adorned with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a simple glaze. Easy to make with minimal ingredients, this pound cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to create cherished memories with family. Its lasting freshness means you can enjoy it over several days, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a tube pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg





