Discover the perfect Philadelphia pound cake in 5 easy steps. Create a moist, rich cream cheese pound cake that delights every taste bud. Enjoy a classic treat!
Pound Cake: 5 Steps to Perfect Philadelphia Delight
Philadelphia pound cake, often referred to as cream cheese pound cake, is a rich, indulgent treat that offers a unique twist on the classic pound cake recipe. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the perfect Philadelphia pound cake. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker, this guide will help you achieve a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients List
Before you start, gather these ingredients for your Philadelphia delight:
- 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz (226g) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups (600g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 10-inch (25 cm) Bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray and lightly dust it with flour. This will ensure your cream cheese pound cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and Philadelphia cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar, about ½ cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue beating for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It’s important that the eggs are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter. Once all the eggs are incorporated, mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. This will give your Philadelphia pound cake a delicate, aromatic essence.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this can create a dense cake texture.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time and Servings
- Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (plus cooling time)
- Servings: This recipe serves 12-16 slices, depending on the size of each serving.
Additional Tips
Substitutions and Variations
- For a zesty twist, substitute the vanilla extract with lemon extract and add the zest of one lemon to the batter.
- If almond extract isn’t available, use extra vanilla extract instead.
- You can mix in a cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to add texture and flavor.
Storage Tips
Store your cream cheese pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to three months.
Internal Links
To enhance your baking journey, explore other delectable recipes from our site, such as the Chocolate Lava Cake and Lemon Drizzle Cake.
External Links
For additional baking tips and resources, visit credible sources like the Allrecipes for a wide variety of cake recipes and the American Heart Association to learn more about healthy eating guidelines.
Call-to-Action
Are you ready to bake this mouth-watering Philadelphia pound cake? Try this recipe today and let the rich flavors and creamy texture speak for themselves. We invite you to share your baking experience with this cream cheese pound cake recipe on social media. Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your feedback or any variations you tried! Happy baking!