There’s something incredibly special about a slice of black peoples pound cake. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of heritage, family, and love. Growing up, I remember my grandmother standing in her cozy kitchen, the sweet aroma of vanilla and butter filling the air as she prepared this beloved recipe. It was always the star of our family gatherings, served alongside laughter and stories, each bite a reminder of our rich traditions. This pound cake is moist, dense, and oh-so-satisfying, making it the perfect treat for any occasion, from Sunday dinners to festive holidays. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s cherished in the Black community. It’s more than just food; it’s a connection to our roots, and I can’t wait for you to create your own memories with this recipe!
Ingredients for Black Peoples Pound Cake Recipe
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming!
- 2 cups granulated sugar – This will give your cake that delightful sweetness.
- 4 large eggs – Bring these to room temperature for a smoother batter.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level it for accurate measuring.
- 1 cup whole milk – This adds moisture and richness to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A must for that warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
How to Prepare the Black Peoples Pound Cake Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious pound cake! I promise it’s easier than you think, and the results are oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a cake that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for an even bake, so don’t skip this step!
- Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan. This prevents the cake from sticking and makes for a beautiful presentation.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. I usually do this for about 3-5 minutes!
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter texture.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, and mix just until combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to give your cake that signature flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and eggs creates an incredibly moist and buttery cake that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
- Cultural Significance: This pound cake is a beloved staple in the Black community, often associated with family gatherings and celebrations, making each slice a piece of history.
- Versatile Delight: Serve it plain, with fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream, and it never fails to impress at any occasion!
- Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for gatherings, allowing you to share a slice of love with friends and family.
Tips for Success with Black Peoples Pound Cake Recipe
To ensure your pound cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips! First, make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy—this really helps to incorporate air for a lighter texture. Don’t rush this step; a good 3-5 minutes does wonders! Also, remember to add your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep that fluffiness going.
When measuring your flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy; this prevents a dense cake. Keep an eye on the baking time—every oven is different, so start checking for doneness at the 60-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean, but don’t be tempted to open the oven door too early, as that can cause the cake to sink!
Variations on Black Peoples Pound Cake Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with this classic pound cake recipe while keeping its essence intact! One of my favorite variations is to add a splash of almond extract alongside the vanilla for a delightful twist that elevates the flavor profile. You could also throw in some finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s softness.
For a fruity twist, consider folding in fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter; they add a burst of flavor and a pop of color! Another option is to create a lemon pound cake by adding lemon zest and a bit of lemon juice for a refreshing citrusy kick. Trust me, these variations not only maintain the soul of the original recipe but also make it your own. Enjoy experimenting and find your perfect spin on this beloved cake!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for each slice of this delicious pound cake, based on typical ingredient values. Keep in mind that these numbers may vary slightly depending on your specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 4g
Enjoy this treat as part of a balanced diet, and savor every moist, buttery bite!
FAQ About Black Peoples Pound Cake Recipe
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter gives the best flavor and texture, you can use margarine in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste might not be as rich.
How do I know when my cake is done? You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Don’t forget, every oven can be a little different!
Can I add other flavors to the batter? Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon, or fold in some chocolate chips or diced fruits for a fun twist.
How should I store leftover pound cake? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
Can I make mini pound cakes with this recipe? Yes! You can use a mini bundt pan or loaf pans. Just adjust the baking time to about 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Print
Black Peoples Pound Cake Recipe: 7 Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and moist traditional pound cake recipe enjoyed by the Black community.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using almond extract.
- Serve with berries or whipped cream.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: black peoples pound cake recipe