Easy Glazed Pound Cake

There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly baked pound cake. It’s a classic that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. This Easy Glazed Pound Cake is not only a delight to the senses but also incredibly simple to make. With the rich flavor of Horizon Organic unsalted butter and the sweetness of organic granulated sugar, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. The glaze adds a touch of elegance, making it perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.

The Upside of Easy Glazed Pound Cake

What makes this Easy Glazed Pound Cake so special? First, it’s the texture. This cake is dense yet moist, with a buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. The addition of vanilla and almond extracts elevates it to a level that feels indulgent, yet it remains simple enough for novice bakers to tackle. The glaze is a delightful finish that not only adds sweetness but also gives the cake a beautiful shine. It’s an all-around crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just a sweet treat for yourself.

Ingredients at a Glance

To create this delicious Easy Glazed Pound Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound Horizon Organic Unsalted Butter, softened
• 3 cups organic granulated sugar
• 6 Horizon Organic Large Eggs, at room temperature
• 3 cups organic all-purpose flour
• 1 cup Horizon Organic Whole Milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, can substitute with an additional 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract)
• 1 cup confectioners sugar
• 1 tablespoon Horizon Organic Whole Milk, or as needed for consistency

Equipment & Tools

Before you start baking, gather the following tools to make the process smoother:

• 9×5 inch loaf pan – This is the perfect size for your pound cake.
• Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – A must for creaming butter and sugar smoothly.
• Rubber spatula – For scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking.
• Cooling rack – Essential for letting your cake cool properly after baking.

Stepwise Method: Easy Glazed Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly once you put it in.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease your loaf pan with butter and lightly flour it to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened Horizon Organic unsalted butter and organic granulated sugar. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add the six eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the organic all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the Horizon Organic whole milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture to maintain a good consistency.

Step 6: Stir in Extracts

Gently fold in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). Be careful not to overmix at this stage.

Step 7: Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the pound cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the confectioners sugar and 1 tablespoon of Horizon Organic whole milk. Add more milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 11: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides for a beautiful finish.

What to Use Instead

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some alternatives:

• Butter: You can substitute with a vegan butter if preferred.
• Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar or brown sugar will work, but may alter the taste slightly.
• Whole Milk: Any plant-based milk can be used, but be mindful of the flavor it may impart.
• Almond Extract: If you’re allergic or prefer not to use it, you can simply increase the vanilla extract.

Don’t Do This

To ensure your Easy Glazed Pound Cake turns out perfectly, avoid the following pitfalls:

• Don’t skip the room temperature ingredients. Cold eggs or milk can cause the batter to be lumpy.
• Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added; this can lead to a tough cake.
• Don’t open the oven door too early while baking; this can cause the cake to sink.
• Don’t rush the cooling process. Allowing the cake to cool properly is key to a perfect texture.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can make this Easy Glazed Pound Cake ahead of time, and it stores beautifully:

• Make-Ahead: The batter can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature before baking.
• Storage: Once glazed, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If unglazed, it can last up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Easy Glazed Pound Cake Q&A

Can I use a different type of flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, but keep in mind that the texture may vary.

What if I don’t have confectioners sugar for the glaze?

If confectioners sugar is unavailable, you can blend granulated sugar until fine, but it may not dissolve as smoothly.

Can I add fruit to the pound cake batter?

Yes! Blueberries or chopped strawberries can be folded in gently before baking for a fruity twist.

How can I make my glaze more flavorful?

Incorporate a splash of lemon juice or some zest for a refreshing citrus flavor in your glaze.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you’re looking to expand your baking repertoire, consider trying out these delicious recipes:

• Lemon Poppy Seed Pound Cake – A zesty twist to the classic.
• Vanilla Bean Pound Cake – Rich with the flavor of real vanilla beans.
• Easy Banana Bread – A moist and delicious alternative.
• Vanilla Pound Cake – Another classic that is simply irresistible.

See You at the Table

Once you’ve whipped up this Easy Glazed Pound Cake, gather your loved ones around the table to enjoy a slice (or two). It’s perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to a holiday feast. The delightful blend of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for the recipe.

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving a homemade cake that fills the heart and home with warmth. Enjoy each bite, and don’t forget to share your baking adventures!