Hello, baking enthusiasts! Get ready to indulge in one of the most decadent desserts you’ll ever taste: the Million Dollar Pound Cake. This timeless classic is a rich, buttery masterpiece, perfect for any celebration or as an indulgent treat for yourself. With its velvety texture and luxurious flavor, it’s no wonder this cake has stood the test of time. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Introduction
The Million Dollar Pound Cake earns its name from its luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the pure richness of its flavor. This cake is a staple in Southern kitchens, celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this cake highlights the magic of combining butter, sugar, and eggs into a perfectly baked golden loaf. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cake is the ultimate centerpiece.
Ingredients
To create this indulgent Million Dollar Pound Cake, you’ll need:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 pound salted butter, softened (4 sticks)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk or buttermilk
Each ingredient works in harmony to create a cake that’s rich in flavor, with a dense yet tender crumb that feels luxurious with every bite.
How to Make Million Dollar Pound Cake
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Butter and flour an angel food or tube pan with a removable bottom. This ensures your cake comes out cleanly and beautifully. Set the pan aside.
- Cream the Butter and Extracts: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the softened butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Whip the mixture on medium-high speed for about 5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a tender cake.
- Add the Sugar: Switch to the paddle attachment. Gradually add the sugar to the butter mixture, continuing to beat on medium speed. The mixture should become light yellow in color and fluffy, which takes about 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated and contributes to the cake’s rich texture.
- Alternate the Flour and Milk: Lower the mixer speed to avoid overmixing. Gradually add the sifted flour and milk, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the flour. Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed. After adding all the ingredients, beat the mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes until the batter is smooth and the flour is fully incorporated.
- Fill the Pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. If needed, gently tap the pan on the counter to settle the batter and release any air bubbles.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 30-45 minutes. Test the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Remove: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Carefully remove the outer ring of the pan and transfer the cake to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
Helpful Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more easily and evenly into the batter.
- Proper Mixing: Creaming the butter and sugar thoroughly is key to achieving a fluffy, tender texture. Take your time during this step.
- Even Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure the cake bakes evenly.
Cooking Tips
To elevate your Million Dollar Pound Cake, consider these additional tips:
- Flavor Variations: Replace almond extract with lemon or orange extract for a citrus twist. You can also add a teaspoon of freshly grated citrus zest for an aromatic boost.
- Decorative Options: Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a classic look, or drizzle it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve slices with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant dessert.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit for a light, summery dessert. For a richer option, add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. The cake’s dense, buttery texture makes it an excellent partner for a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for Million Dollar Pound Cake (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 40g
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 8%
- Vitamin A: 15%
While this cake is an indulgent treat, its rich ingredients provide satisfaction in every slice.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
- Reheat: Warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add an additional 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the batter to balance the flavors.
Can I bake this cake in loaf pans?
Absolutely! Divide the batter evenly between two standard loaf pans. Adjust the baking time to around 1 hour and 15 minutes, checking for doneness.
Can I reduce the sugar?
While it’s possible to reduce the sugar slightly, it may affect the cake’s texture and flavor. Use caution when modifying the recipe.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Million Dollar Pound Cake, you might also enjoy:
- Classic Southern Buttermilk Pie
- Rich Butter Pecan Cake
- Vanilla Bean Bundt Cake
- Lemon Pound Cake with Glaze
Conclusion
The Million Dollar Pound Cake is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients and timeless recipes. Its rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb make it the star of any occasion, whether you’re celebrating with family or indulging in a slice just because. Try it for yourself and experience the magic of this classic Southern dessert. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how it turned out!