Old-Fashioned Pound Cake Recipe – Classic, Buttery & Moist

This old-fashioned pound cake is rich, dense, and perfectly buttery—just like the traditional recipe passed down through generations. With simple ingredients and a classic baking method, this homemade pound cake is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday dessert.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Pound Cake

• 4 cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 sticks butter, softened
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 6 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Old-Fashioned Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 16-cup tube pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a stand mixer bowl, add the ingredients in this order:
cake flour, baking powder, sugar, butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Mix on low speed for 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Increase to medium speed and mix for another 2 minutes.
⚠️ Do not mix for more than 4 minutes total to avoid a dense cake.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared tube pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool

Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, then carefully remove and cool completely.

Optional Glaze Ideas

• Simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla)
• Lemon glaze for a citrus twist
• Classic powdered sugar dusting

Tips for the Best Pound Cake

• Use softened butter for a smooth batter
• Don’t overmix—this keeps the texture tender
• Let the cake cool properly before removing from the pan