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Black People’s Pound Cake Recipe


  • Author: Diana Carrozza

Ingredients

Scale
  • Cake Ingredients:
    • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
    • ½ cup shortening (or additional butter)
    • 3 cups granulated sugar
    • 5 large eggs
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 teaspoon lemon extract
    • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Optional Toppings:
    • Powdered sugar for dusting
    • Glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and a dash of vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • Grease and flour a bundt pan or tube pan to ensure the cake comes out clean.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and shortening together until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add sugar, one cup at a time, and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

  • Add the eggs one by one, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  • Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to maintain a smooth mixture.

Step 4: Mix in the Extracts

  • Stir in the vanilla, lemon, and almond extracts for a flavor-packed batter.

Step 5: Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
  • Begin and end with the flour, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and airy.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

  • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
  • Let the butter and eggs come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth batter.
  • Avoid overbaking to maintain the cake’s signature moistness.