Old-Fashioned Pound Cake Recipe – Classic, Buttery & Moist
This old-fashioned pound cake is rich, dense, and perfectly buttery—just like the traditional recipe passed down through generations. With simple ingredients and a classic baking method, this homemade pound cake is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday dessert.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Pound Cake
- 4 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 sticks butter, softened
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 6 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Old-Fashioned Pound Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 16-cup tube pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a stand mixer bowl, add the ingredients in this order:
cake flour, baking powder, sugar, butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Mix on low speed for 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Increase to medium speed and mix for another 2 minutes.
⚠️ Do not mix for more than 4 minutes total to avoid a dense cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool
Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, then carefully remove and cool completely.
Optional Glaze Ideas
- Simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla)
- Lemon glaze for a citrus twist
- Classic powdered sugar dusting
Tips for the Best Pound Cake
- Use softened butter for a smooth batter
- Don’t overmix—this keeps the texture tender
- Let the cake cool properly before removing from the pan
