Imagine a cake that requires just three simple ingredients, yet delivers the rich, buttery flavor and dense texture of a traditional pound cake. This 3 ingredient pound cake recipe is not only an easy win for any home baker, but it also showcases the magic of simplicity in baking. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe will make you feel like a pro with its foolproof execution and delightful results.
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the magic of this recipe, let’s gather our basic ingredients:
- 1 box (400 grams) of cake mix (vanilla or your favorite flavor)
- 1 cup (240 ml) of milk
- 3 eggs
The 3 Ingredient Pound Cake Recipe
Now, let’s get to the heart of this delightful dessert:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
- Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, milk, and eggs. Beat together until the batter is smooth. You can use a mixer for this or do it by hand for a bit of exercise.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes on Ingredients and Variations
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility:
- Cake Mix Flavor: While vanilla cake mix is traditional, feel free to experiment with chocolate, lemon, or even spice cake mix for a different twist.
- Adding Extras: If you’re looking to jazz up your cake, consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or zest from lemons or oranges.
⚠️ Note: Adding extras might change the baking time and texture, so keep an eye on the cake and adjust as needed.
Serving Suggestions
A freshly baked pound cake is versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:
- Slice and serve as is for a simple, delightful treat.
- Top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for a touch of sweetness.
- Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream to balance the richness.
- Use it as a base for an elegant trifle by layering with custard or mousse and fruit.
Summary
This three-ingredient pound cake recipe demonstrates the magic of simplicity in baking. With just a cake mix, milk, and eggs, you can produce a classic dessert that rivals those made with much more complex recipes. It’s not just the ease of preparation that makes this recipe stand out; it’s the ability to customize it with different flavors or mix-ins, offering a fresh taste each time you bake it. This cake is perfect for last-minute gatherings, potlucks, or even for those times when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the delight in its rich, buttery outcome. Enjoy the magic of baking with just three ingredients!
Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?
+
Yes, you can use any type of milk, including non-dairy options like almond, soy, or oat milk. The texture might vary slightly, but the cake should still turn out well.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
+
Use a gluten-free cake mix, and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free. Keep in mind that the texture might differ due to the different flour blends in gluten-free products.
What if I want a fluffier pound cake?
+
For a fluffier texture, you can separate the egg whites, whip them until stiff peaks form, and then fold them gently into the batter. This will incorporate more air into the cake.
