Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe: Simple & Elegant Dessert

Imagine a dessert that not only tastes heavenly but also looks like a million bucks. Enter the Million Dollar Pound Cake, a timeless recipe known for its rich flavor, tender crumb, and elegant simplicity. This dessert has made appearances at countless dinner parties, family gatherings, and holiday feasts, earning its name not from its cost but from the luxurious experience it provides. Whether you're an avid baker or just dipping your toes into the baking world, this pound cake promises to be your golden ticket to culinary success.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Pound Cake

Before you start baking, gather these simple yet crucial ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional for an extra layer of flavor)

Step-by-Step Preparation

To craft the perfect Million Dollar Pound Cake, follow these steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or bundt pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
2. Cream Butter and Shortening: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and shortening until light and fluffy. This can take about 5 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. The process should take another 5-6 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
4. Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the cake's structure.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures no lumps will disrupt the smooth texture of your cake.
6. Add Milk and Flour: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Add the vanilla (and almond extract if using) during one of these additions.
7. Mix Gently: Mix on low speed until just combined. Over-mixing can result in a dense, tough cake.
8. Pour Into Pan: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Plain or Glazed: Serve the cake as is, or for added elegance, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a hint of vanilla.
• With Fresh Fruits: Accompany each slice with fresh berries or sliced fruit for a refreshing contrast.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances its luxurious appeal.

⚠️ Note: This cake is dense and rich, so it’s often served in smaller slices to allow the flavors to shine without overwhelming the palate.

Wrap up your baking experience with the Million Dollar Pound Cake, a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is elegant to serve. Its simplicity in ingredients and preparation belies the complex flavors and textures it delivers, making it a perfect addition to your dessert repertoire. You'll be impressed by how the basic elements like butter, sugar, and flour can be transformed into something that feels truly gourmet.

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

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You can substitute cake flour for all-purpose flour, but be aware that it will affect the texture, making the cake slightly lighter and potentially less dense. Adjust by adding 2 tablespoons of cake flour per cup of all-purpose flour called for.

What’s the difference between shortening and butter in baking?

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Shortening provides a crumb that is more tender than butter because it has a higher melting point, which means it doesn’t melt as quickly in the oven. However, butter adds flavor that shortening lacks, making for a delicious balance in this recipe.

How can I store the Million Dollar Pound Cake?

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The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.