French Vanilla Pound Cake
French Vanilla Pound Cake is a rich, buttery dessert known for its dense yet tender texture and delightful flavor. Made with a blend of vanilla, eggs, butter, and flour, it’s perfect for any occasion. The smooth vanilla essence elevates this classic cake, making it irresistibly delicious.
Equipment
- 9-inch loaf pan (or bundt pan for a more decorative shape)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper (optional, for lining the pan)
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups 5 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ⅓ cups granulated sugar
- 8 large eggs room temperature
- 5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons French vanilla flavoring optional
- 1 cup whole milk room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt or loaf pan.
- Cream together butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sifted flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract, French vanilla flavoring (if using), and vanilla bean paste.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage: Store your French Vanilla Pound Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it for longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions: This cake is delicious on its own, but you can also dress it up. Try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special treat.
Make it Even More Vanilla: If you’re a vanilla lover like me, you can bump up the vanilla flavor by adding an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract or even using a vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract for a more intense flavor.