There is nothing like the comfort of an old-fashioned sour cream pound cake to bring back fond memories of warm kitchens and loved ones. This simple five-ingredient recipe combines the rich flavor of sour cream with the buttery goodness of a classic pound cake, creating a soft, moist treat perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and some basic equipment, you can easily whip up this timeless delight. Let’s jump in and make this delicious cake, step by step.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 5 large eggs
Equipment
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Bundt pan (10-inch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
How to Make Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Pound Cake
The old-fashioned sour cream pound cake recipe is straightforward and yields a moist, dense cake that melts in your mouth. Below, you will find a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious cake.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This step ensures your cake will bake evenly and have a beautiful golden crust. Time needed: 5 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Grease and lightly flour your Bundt pan to prevent sticking. You can use a little butter or cooking spray to ensure that your cake comes out smoothly. Time needed: 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Using an electric mixer on medium speed works best for this step. Time needed: 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake texture. Time needed: 5 minutes.
Step 5: Mix in the Sour Cream
Add the sour cream to the butter, sugar, and egg mixture. Beat until it is well combined, giving the cake its signature moistness and tangy flavor. Time needed: 2 minutes.
Step 6: Gradually Add Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake too dense. Time needed: 4 minutes.
Step 7: Pour Batter into the Pan
Pour the prepared batter into the Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Time needed: 2 minutes.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The aroma of the cake will fill your kitchen as it bakes to perfection. Time needed: 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cake onto a cooling rack to cool completely before serving. Time needed: 15 minutes.
Tips for the Perfect Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Pound Cake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
For best results, ensure all your ingredients—particularly the butter, eggs, and sour cream—are at room temperature. This makes it easier to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a fluffier cake.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain the perfect moist and tender texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with Fresh Berries
An old-fashioned sour cream pound cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The sweet and tart berries contrast nicely with the rich flavor of the cake.
Drizzle with Glaze
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a few drops of lemon juice over the top of your pound cake.
Storing Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Pound Cake
Room Temperature Storage
Store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. The cake will stay moist and delicious for several days.
Refrigeration
If you need to store it longer, place the cake in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing the Pound Cake
This old-fashioned sour cream pound cake also freezes well. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Sour Cream in This Pound Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt if needed. However, using sour cream is preferred as it adds a unique richness and tender crumb to this old-fashioned pound cake.
Why Is My Pound Cake Dense?
A pound cake can become dense if the batter is overmixed or if the ingredients are too cold. Ensure your ingredients are room temperature and mix only until everything is well incorporated.
How Can I Tell If My Cake Is Done?
The best way to tell if the old-fashioned sour cream pound cake is done is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it is ready. The top should also be golden brown.
Variations of the Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Pound Cake
Vanilla Sour Cream Pound Cake
Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the batter to give it a more pronounced vanilla flavor. This small addition can take your old-fashioned pound cake to the next level, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake
For a citrusy twist, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter. The bright flavor of lemon complements the rich, buttery taste of the cake beautifully.
Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Pound Cake
For a fun variation, stir in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter before baking. This will give your old-fashioned sour cream pound cake a delightful chocolatey surprise in every bite.
Why You Should Try This Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Pound Cake Recipe
The old-fashioned sour cream pound cake is a perfect blend of simplicity and classic flavors. Made with only five ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and provides a beautiful, rich, and buttery texture that everyone loves. The addition of sour cream ensures that the cake remains moist and tender, while the five simple ingredients keep the recipe fuss-free and achievable for bakers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a comforting treat, this pound cake is guaranteed to be a hit. Serve it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or simply enjoy it on its own—the possibilities are endless with this classic, timeless dessert.
Troubleshooting Common Pound Cake Problems
Why Did My Pound Cake Crack on Top?
A cracked top is quite common in pound cakes. This is due to the dense batter and the long baking time. As the cake bakes, the top sets before the inside is fully cooked, causing the batter to push upwards and create a crack. This is completely normal and adds to the rustic charm of an old-fashioned pound cake.
My Pound Cake Stuck to the Pan. What Can I Do?
To prevent sticking, make sure you grease and flour your Bundt pan thoroughly. You can also use a non-stick baking spray that contains flour for best results.
Enhancements to Your Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Pound Cake
Add a Cinnamon Swirl
For a warm, spiced version of this classic old-fashioned pound cake, mix 2 teaspoons of cinnamon with ¼ cup of brown sugar, and swirl it into the batter before baking.
Top with Caramel Sauce
Drizzling caramel sauce over the cooled cake adds an indulgent touch that makes this cake even more special. The rich sweetness of caramel complements the buttery flavor of the pound cake perfectly.
Add Nuts for Crunch
Fold in ¾ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch to your pound cake. Nuts add both texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the richness of the sour cream pound cake.
Perfect Occasions to Serve Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Pound Cake
This old-fashioned sour cream pound cake is incredibly versatile and perfect for many occasions:
- Afternoon Tea: Serve slices of this cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- Family Gatherings: A great option for family reunions and holiday celebrations.
- Potlucks and Parties: Its simplicity and universal appeal make it a crowd-pleaser.
This five-ingredient old-fashioned sour cream pound cake is a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Its classic flavor, moist texture, and the fact that it only requires a few pantry staples make it the ideal dessert for any occasion.