If you want to make the ultimate classic cake, you should definitely try the Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake. It’s incredibly soft, buttery, and rich. The recipe is detailed with step-by-step instructions.
Table of Contents
Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake : Parchment Line
- A velvety, soft, foolproof pound cake is perfect for a celebration.
- If you’re looking for a rich, buttery, and incredibly soft pound cake, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll learn step-by-step instructions, from mixing the butter to the best way to slice a perfect golden loaf. This will make it incredibly easy to make the Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake at home.
Why Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake is Special:
- Real butter is used for rich flavor.
- The crumb is thick yet soft, just like a classic American pound cake.
- Easy for beginners, and it tastes just like the bakery.
- Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake is perfect for holidays, dessert, brunch, gift giving, and potlucks.
All you need:
- For a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan
Ingredients for the dry filling:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ingredients for the wet filling:
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup softened unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
Optional: Flavor booster ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon butter extract
- Zest of 1 orange or 1 lemon
Step-by-step instructions for making Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake:
1. Preparing the oven and pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, which will help the cake release cleanly after baking.
2. Beating the Dry Ingredients
- Use a medium bowl.
- Add baking powder, flour, and salt and beat for 10 to 12 seconds.
- This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a thorough mixing.
3. Butter and Sugar
- Whisk the butter and sugar thoroughly until fluffy. Use a large mixing bowl and add the ingredients as directed:
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- Add 1 cup softened butter
- Bake with a stand mixer or hand mixer for 4 to 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- This step holds the secret to a light, cloud-like pound cake.
4. Adding the Eggs
- Eggs should be added one at a time.
- First, add one egg and mix for 18 to 20 seconds.
- Repeat the same process with all four eggs.
- This prevents the dough from curdling and creates a smooth, fluffy texture.
5. Add vanilla and optional flavorings
- Take 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
- Optional: Use almond extract, lemon zest, or butter extract.
- This creates a strong, nostalgic flavor for an American pound cake.
6. Add the dry ingredients in two batches
- Remember to add the dry ingredients and milk in turn:
- First, take the flour mixer and add half of it and mix gently.
- Add the milk and mix thoroughly.
- Add the remaining flour and mix thoroughly.
- Be careful not to mix for too long. Overmixing will make the cake dense.
7. Butter and Smooth
- Pour the batter into the loaf pan. Then,
- Level the top with a spatula and
- Tap the pan lightly to release any air bubbles.
8. Baking
- Bake at 350°F for 60 to 70 minutes.
- The cake is perfectly done when:
- A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- The top is golden brown.
- A buttery, sweet aroma begins to fill the house.
9. Cooling
- Cool the pound cake in the pan for 9 to 10 minutes.
- Using the parchment paper, lift it out onto a wire rack.
- Cool completely before cutting the Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake or Parchment Lined Pound Cake so it doesn’t break.
Serving Suggestions:
The Parchment Lined or Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake can be served with:
- Whipped Cream
- Warm Caramel Drizzle
- Fresh Berries
- Lemon Glaze
- Buttered Toast for Breakfast
- Vanilla Ice Cream
- The Parchment Lined Cake is wonderful with coffee or tea. It’s perfect for brunch or dessert.
Some expert tips for a great pound cake:
- Don’t rush the creaming step; creaming your butter and sugar thoroughly gives the cake its distinctive cloud-soft texture.
- Using room-temperature cheese ensures the batter is thoroughly mixed.
- Don’t open the oven door too quickly, as low heat can cause the cake to sink.
- Let it cool completely before slicing, as a warm pound cake tends to break.
- For more moisture, replace 2 tablespoons of milk with sour cream or buttermilk.
Storage Tips:
- Here are some great tips for storing Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake or parchment lined cakes, ensuring they last longer:
- At room temperature: Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and store for 5 to 6 days.
- Refrigerating it can keep it fresh for 7 to 8 days.
For freezer-friendly options:
- First, slice the cake, then
- Tightly wrap all the slices in plastic wrap.
- Store in a freezer bag, which can keep for up to 3 months.
- For a better texture, thaw at room temperature.
Some variations, USA favorite suggestions:
- For a vanilla almond pound cake, add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.
- For a lemon pound cake, add 2 tablespoons lemon juice and the zest of one lemon.
- For a berry pound cake, add 1 cup of blueberries or raspberries, mix in a little flour, and then fold in the flour.
- For a chocolate marble pound cake, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa to 1/4 cup of batter and swirl it in.
- For a cinnamon sugar pound cake, add 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg.
FAQ-
Q. Why did the Golden Butter Cloud pound cake sink in the middle?
Reasons:
Overmixing
Undercooking
Opening the oven too early and
Cold cheese
Read all steps carefully to ensure proper rising.
Q. Why is the Golden Butter Cloud pound cake, or parchment lined, called a pound cake?
The recipe used to call for one pound each of butter, flour, sugar, and eggs. These days, the weight is lighter, but the taste remains the same.
Q. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes! You can reduce it by 1/4 cup, but the texture may change slightly.
Q, Can I use salted butter?
Yes! Reduce the salt by just 1/4 teaspoon.
Q. Can I convert the Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake to a Bundt pan?
Yes! You can increase the pan size and bake at 350°F for 70 to 75 minutes.
Q. Can I add fruit to the batter?
Yes! Sprinkle flour over the fruit, especially berries, to prevent it from sinking.
Q. How do I make a glaze for the pound cake?
Mixing:
2 teaspoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup powdered sugar
Drink over the cooled cake.
Final Thoughts
Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake is the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern expectations for a softer texture.
If you’re looking to bake for holiday dinners, brunch, family gatherings, or just a cozy weekend dessert, this Golden Butter Cloud Pound Cake with Parchment Line is the perfect, never-to-be-missed recipe, boasting a buttery aroma, soft, golden crust, and a rich crumb. This parchment-lined pound cake is sure to become a favorite and a classic.