Cream Cheese Pound Cake – Rich, Moist, and Buttery Perfection

Few desserts can rival the buttery perfection of a Cream Cheese Pound Cake. Dense yet tender, rich yet balanced, this classic Southern-inspired cake is pure comfort in every slice. The secret to its irresistible texture and flavor? Cream cheese — it adds subtle tang, extra moisture, and a luxurious creaminess that makes this cake unforgettable.

Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with berries and whipped cream, cream cheese pound cake is a dessert that shines at any occasion. It’s elegant enough for holidays, yet simple enough to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. In this article, we’ll explore what makes this cake special, how to bake it to perfection, and creative ways to serve it.

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Cream cheese pound cake takes the traditional buttery loaf and elevates it with a melt-in-your-mouth richness that’s hard to resist. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box:

1. Silky Texture: The cream cheese adds incredible moisture, giving each bite a smooth, velvety crumb.

2. Buttery Flavor: With butter, cream cheese, and sugar creamed together, the flavor is rich, sweet, and slightly tangy.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion: From family gatherings to afternoon tea, this cake fits every setting.

4. Stays Fresh Longer: The cream cheese keeps the cake soft and moist for days — perfect for make-ahead desserts.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
• 2¾ cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or 1 tsp vanilla + ½ tsp almond extract)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 75–85 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 1 large loaf or Bundt cake (10–12 servings)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or a large loaf pan. You can also line the bottom with parchment for easy release.

2. Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy — about 2–3 minutes. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to creating that classic pound cake texture.

3. Add the Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully combined.

4. Mix in the Vanilla
Add vanilla extract (and almond extract, if using) for flavor depth.

5. Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix — this can make the cake dense.

6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

7. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Calories: 380
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 0g

This cake is indulgent and buttery — perfect for treating yourself or impressing guests.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Classic Style: Dust with powdered sugar and serve plain — the rich flavor speaks for itself.

Fresh and Fruity: Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a light, summery touch.

Glazed Perfection: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze or lemon icing for extra sweetness.

Breakfast Delight: Toast leftover slices and serve with a smear of butter or jam.

Elegant Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel or berry sauce.

Variations to Try

• Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake: Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest and 2 tablespoons lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
• Marble Pound Cake: Swirl in melted chocolate or cocoa powder for a beautiful two-tone loaf.
• Almond Cream Cheese Pound Cake: Replace part of the vanilla with almond extract and top with sliced almonds before baking.
• Holiday Version: Add a touch of rum extract and fold in candied fruit for a festive flair.

Tips for a Perfect Pound Cake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Butter, cream cheese, and eggs should be at room temperature to mix smoothly.
• Beat Well, Then Don’t Overmix: Cream the butter, cream cheese, and sugar thoroughly for fluffiness, but once you add flour, mix only until combined.
• Bake Low and Slow: The lower temperature ensures an even bake without over-browning.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing or Slicing: This helps the texture set and makes cleaner slices.

Why Cream Cheese Pound Cake Is a Timeless Favorite

There’s a reason this cake has stood the test of time. It’s simple yet sophisticated, rich without being overwhelming, and versatile enough for any occasion. The cream cheese not only enhances flavor but ensures that moist, buttery crumb that melts in your mouth with every bite.

From Sunday dinners to holiday feasts, Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent — a recipe you’ll turn to again and again whenever you crave something classic, comforting, and absolutely delicious.

So grab your mixing bowl, preheat that oven, and prepare to bake a cake that tastes like pure homemade love.time, or just an indulgent treat any day of the week.