Southern Living Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe
The Southern Living Million Dollar Pound Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a classic symbol of Southern hospitality and cooking. Loved for its rich, buttery taste and soft texture, this pound cake is both simple and special. The recipe only needs a few basic ingredients, but the result is amazing.
Equipment
- A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer
- A 10-inch bundt or tube pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A Rubber Spatula
- A cooling rack
- A serrated knife for slicing
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter 1 pound, softened: The foundation of the rich, buttery flavor.
- Granulated sugar 3 cups: Provides sweetness and balances the richness.
- Large eggs 6: Adds structure and moisture to the batter.
- All-purpose flour 4 cups: The building block for the cake's texture.
- Whole milk ¾ cup: Ensures a moist, tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon: Brings depth of flavor and warmth.
- Almond extract optional, 1 teaspoon: Adds a subtle, nutty undertone.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Start by heating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While it heats up, grease a 10-inch bundt or tube pan with butter or non-stick spray so the cake doesn’t stick. Sprinkle a little flour inside the pan and shake off the extra. This will help your pound cake come out easily.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- Using your stand mixer or handheld electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar on medium speed until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This process usually takes around 5-7 minutes and is crucial for achieving a soft and well-aerated cake. Take your time here—this step adds air bubbles that help the cake rise and get its smooth texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
- Add the eggs to your creamed mixture one at a time. Mix well after each egg so it all blends together smoothly. Use a rubber spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl now and then to make sure everything is mixed evenly.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients and Milk
- Start by adding the sifted dry ingredients (flour and any baking powder, if used) and milk one at a time, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Add them in small amounts and mix on low speed to avoid overmixing. The batter should be smooth, thick, and rich when you’re done.
Step 5: Pour and Smooth the Batter
- Pour the batter into your pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. This helps the cake bake evenly and gives it a nice, dense texture.
Step 6: Bake and Cool the Cake
- Put your pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 40 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean. When it’s done, take the cake out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cake onto a cooling rack and let it cool completely.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the cake is completely cool, use a sharp knife to cut it into even pieces. Take a moment to admire your work—the golden crust and soft inside show how well you baked it. Serve it as it is, or add whipped cream, fresh fruit, or some glaze for extra flavor. Enjoy every tasty bite with your friends and family.
Notes
This pound cake recipe is versatile, forgiving, and packed with rich flavor. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately, avoid overmixing, and monitor the baking time closely for the perfect moist texture. Adding your own creative twists, like toppings or mix-ins, can make it uniquely yours!