Cream Cheese Pound Cake

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If you’re a fan of rich, buttery cakes with a velvety crumb, this Cream Cheese Pound Cake is about to become your new go-to dessert. Its dense, moist texture pairs perfectly with the subtle tang of cream cheese, offering a classic Southern treat that feels indulgent without being too sweet. Baked to a golden perfection and topped with a simple glaze or fresh berries, this cake is effortlessly elegant.

Perfect for brunches, holiday tables, or a comforting slice with your afternoon coffee, this cake never goes out of style. The balance between creamy and buttery makes each bite a nostalgic experience. Whether you’re baking for family or guests, this cake is guaranteed to spark compliments and second helpings.

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Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Pound Cake

• Buttery and Dense Texture: Thanks to the cream cheese, each slice is rich with a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy—just pantry staples creating something extraordinary.
• Lasts for Days: It keeps beautifully, making it ideal for make-ahead occasions.
• Versatile Toppings: Add berries, a lemon glaze, or serve plain—it shines any way you slice it.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck, birthday, or tea time, this cake fits right in.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Creaming the butter, sugar, and cream cheese until fluffy is key to a perfect pound cake texture. A stand mixer makes this step quicker and more efficient.
• Bundt Pan or Loaf Pan: Traditionally baked in a Bundt pan for a stunning shape and even baking.
• Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
• Cooling Rack: Allows air to circulate and cool the cake evenly without sogginess.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters—getting the right proportions ensures success.

Taking a few extra minutes to prep your ingredients and tools before starting will make the baking process smooth and stress-free.

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Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a critical role in creating that signature moist and dense texture you crave in a pound cake.

• Unsalted Butter – Provides the rich base and flavor depth. Room temperature butter is crucial for proper creaming.
• Cream Cheese – Adds tanginess and ensures the cake stays ultra moist.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and assists in giving it a golden crust.
• Large Eggs – Offer structure and richness. Use room temperature eggs for a smooth batter.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cake its body and helps create the dense crumb we love.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses the cake with warmth and a lovely aromatic finish.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

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How To Make the Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease and flour a Bundt pan or loaf pans. This ensures an easy release and that classic golden crust.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is pale and airy. This step is key to a tender cake.

Step 3: Add the Eggs One at a Time

Crack in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This slow incorporation helps emulsify the batter, ensuring a consistent texture throughout.

Step 4: Blend in the Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Add vanilla extract and mix just until combined. Then, gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter

Pour the thick batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to level the top evenly, ensuring a uniform bake.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 70–80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly cracked—that’s a good sign!

Step 7: Cool and Glaze (Optional)

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, top with a simple vanilla glaze or dust with powdered sugar.

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How to Serve and Store Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Cream Cheese Pound Cake is incredibly versatile and tastes even better the next day! Serve it as-is, warm it slightly with a pat of butter, or pair it with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for an elevated dessert.

This cake stores beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temp and it’s ready to enjoy again.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my pound cake from sticking to the pan?

Use a generous amount of butter or shortening and flour in every corner of your Bundt pan. You can also use a baking spray with flour for easy release.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended for the best texture and richness. Low-fat versions may affect moisture and density.

Why is my pound cake too dense or gummy?

Overmixing the batter or underbaking are common causes. Make sure to cream the butter, cream cheese, and sugar thoroughly and avoid overmixing once the flour is added.

Can I add flavor variations?

Absolutely! Lemon or almond extract, orange zest, or even a swirl of fruit preserves can add an exciting twist.

Is it okay to bake in a loaf pan instead of a Bundt?

Yes, just divide the batter evenly into two loaf pans and reduce baking time slightly—check around the 55-minute mark.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day. Bake, cool, wrap tightly, and serve within a few days for best flavor and moisture.

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Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Cream Cheese Pound Cake, wait until you try these other unique cake recipes from the blog:

• Moist and Tangy Key Lime Pound Cake for a zesty citrus take on a classic.
• Brownie Refrigerator Cake when you want something cool, fudgy, and layered.
• Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for the ultimate dessert mash-up.
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups if you’re craving cookie and cake in one bite.
• Amish Applesauce Cake for a warmly spiced old-fashioned treat.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you glaze it or leave it plain? Did you sneak in lemon zest or add berries on top?

I love seeing your personal spins on these recipes. Feel free to drop your questions, tweaks, and tips below!

Looking for more dreamy desserts? Follow along at Pinterest – Kitchen By Kate to get inspired daily with new ideas.

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