Indulge in the delightful decadence of a homemade Three Layer Pound Cake, where every slice promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience! This classic American dessert is not just a cake; it's a celebration of flavor and texture that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to family gatherings—this cake is a showstopper that will impress your guests and leave them craving more. With a buttery richness and a hint of vanilla, this three-layer masterpiece is easier to make than you might think. Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will make you the star of the kitchen!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 90 mins
Total Time: 120 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 three-layer cake
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring even coating to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to ensure smooth incorporation later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing gently to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter equally among the three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
- Place the cake pans in the preheated oven, positioning them so they are not touching each other. Bake for 60-90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes. Then carefully turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Once completely cooled, the layers can be frosted, filled, or served as desired. For best texture, let the cake rest for a few hours before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start. This helps create a smoother batter and results in a lighter cake.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt not only removes lumps but also aerates the mixture, leading to a fluffier cake.
- Creaming Butter and Sugar: Don’t rush this step! Cream the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this can take up to 7 minutes. This process incorporates air, which is essential for a light texture.
- Egg Incorporation: Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed in before adding the next. This helps maintain the structure of the batter.
- Alternating Ingredients: When adding the dry ingredients and milk, alternate them to prevent the batter from becoming too dense. Start and end with the dry ingredients for the best results.
- Even Baking: Position the cake pans in the oven so they are not touching. This allows for even heat distribution and prevents the cakes from baking unevenly.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them set properly and reduces the risk of breaking.
- Frosting and Filling: For a truly indulgent experience, consider frosting between the layers and on top with your favorite icing or whipped cream. Let the cake rest for a few hours after frosting for the best flavor.
- Storage: If you have leftovers (if!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. With these tips, you're well on your way to baking a Three Layer Pound Cake that will wow everyone at your next gathering!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 145mg
