Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What I love most about this Cream Cheese Pound Cake is its perfect texture. The addition of cream cheese makes the cake incredibly moist and rich, while the combination of butter and sugar gives it that wonderful depth of flavor. The almond extract adds a subtle, aromatic touch, while the vanilla keeps it sweet and familiar. Whether I’m serving it at a special occasion or just enjoying it as an afternoon treat with tea, this cake is always a hit. It’s simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 3 cups sugar

• 6 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.

2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.

5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

6. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 70 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

I love how versatile this Cream Cheese Pound Cake is. You can add a bit of citrus zest, like lemon or orange, for a bright twist. For a fun change, try swirling in a bit of fruit preserves, such as raspberry or strawberry, to add a pop of flavor and color. If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap out the almond extract for coconut or hazelnut. To take it to the next level, top the cake with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage/Reheating

This cake keeps wonderfully. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature, and it will still be moist and delicious. If you want to reheat a slice, just microwave it for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pan for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a regular round cake pan, loaf pan, or even mini loaf pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as necessary, as smaller pans may bake faster than a bundt pan.

Can I make this cake without almond extract?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of almond flavor, you can easily leave it out or substitute it with another extract like hazelnut or maple, or even just use more vanilla for a deeper vanilla flavor.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

The cream cheese adds a special richness to the cake, but you could use sour cream or full-fat yogurt as a substitute if you prefer. Just keep in mind the texture may change slightly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake stores really well, and it actually gets better after a day or two! If you’re making it for a special occasion, feel free to bake it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes, you can add fruit such as berries or chopped peaches to the batter for added flavor. Just toss the fruit in a little flour before folding it in to prevent it from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a truly timeless dessert that never disappoints. It’s wonderfully rich and moist with a subtle blend of vanilla and almond flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering, for a holiday treat, or just for a simple indulgence, it’s always a winner. Its soft crumb and delicious taste make it a perfect cake for any occasion, and it’s always loved by anyone who tries it. Give it a go, and I’m sure it’ll become one of your favorite classic desserts too!