Easy Quarterpound Cake Recipe for Home Bakers

Embarking on the journey of home baking can be both exciting and daunting, especially when aiming to recreate iconic desserts like the Quarterpound Cake. Renowned for its dense yet moist texture and sweet, buttery flavor, this classic cake is a staple in many households and bakeries. This guide will walk you through a simple, foolproof recipe designed for home bakers, ensuring you get to enjoy a delicious treat without professional baking skills.

Why Choose a Quarterpound Cake?

The Quarterpound Cake, often simply known as butter cake or pound cake, has its roots in traditional English baking, where the original recipe called for a pound each of four key ingredients: flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Here's why this cake is a great choice:

• Simplicity: The ingredient list is straightforward, making it an excellent recipe for beginners.
• Versatility: It serves as a base for numerous variations, from adding chocolate chips to citrus zest.
• Durability: It can be stored longer than many other cakes due to its rich composition.
• Rich Flavor: The high amount of butter and eggs results in a deep, buttery taste with a tender crumb.

Ingredients for Your Quarterpound Cake

Here's what you'll need for this delectable cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

📍 Note: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Step-by-Step Baking Guide

Preparation

1. Prep Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Butter and lightly flour a 10-inch tube pan or a similar baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Butter the Pan: Place the butter in the bowl of your mixer or a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer. Beat on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.

Mixing

1. Sugar and Butter: Gradually add sugar to the butter, continuing to beat until the mixture is light in color and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
2. Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure a smooth batter.
3. Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add Milk and Vanilla: Mix the milk with vanilla extract. Alternating between the flour mixture and milk mixture, add them to the butter-sugar-egg batter, starting and ending with the flour.

Baking

1. Pour Batter: Gently pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
3. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes before transferring it out of the pan to cool completely.

Serving and Storage

Your cake is now ready to be served. Here are some tips:

• Serving: Quarterpound cake can be served with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s delicious plain or with your favorite dessert accompaniment.
• Storage: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.

📌 Note: The cake might sink slightly in the center, which is normal due to its rich composition. For a more uniform texture, avoid opening the oven door during baking.

Variations

To personalize your Quarterpound Cake:

• Add lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist.
• Include chocolate chips or swirl in a chocolate ganache for a chocolate lover’s delight.
• Top with a glaze made from citrus juice and powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.

Creating a Quarterpound Cake is more than just baking; it's an experience steeped in tradition and the joy of sharing something homemade. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy a slice with your tea, this recipe ensures you can savor every moment of your baking adventure. The simple ingredient list and straightforward steps make it approachable for bakers of all levels, turning a potentially intimidating dessert into a delightful kitchen project. Remember, the real magic in baking lies in the process as much as the product - each step, from the rhythmic beating of butter to the careful folding of flour, is a dance of flavors coming together. Enjoy your freshly baked Quarterpound Cake, and let it remind you that sometimes, the simplest recipes yield the most delicious and lasting memories.

Can I use salted butter for the recipe?

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While unsalted butter is recommended to control the salt level precisely, you can use salted butter if that’s all you have. Just omit the pinch of salt from the recipe.

How can I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

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Ensure your pan is well greased and floured. Additionally, using parchment paper or a non-stick spray can provide an extra layer of protection against sticking.

What if my cake isn’t done after the suggested baking time?

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Baking times can vary based on your oven’s efficiency. If your cake isn’t done, return it to the oven and check every 10-15 minutes until the toothpick comes out clean.