Few desserts are as timeless and comforting as a rich, buttery pound cake. This Black People’s Pound Cake recipe is a celebration of Southern baking traditions, infused with soulful flavors and generations of love. With a tender crumb, a golden crust, and notes of vanilla, almond, and lemon, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or a simple dessert to share with loved ones. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a pound cake that will become a cherished part of your recipe collection.

Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time

Tools Needed:

• 10-inch Bundt or tube pan
• Electric mixer (hand or stand)
• Mixing bowls (2)
• Spatula
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack for cooling

Servings: 12 slices

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 80 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup shortening
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder

Steps to Make Black People’s Pound Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube pan, ensuring all nooks and crannies are well-coated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, shortening, and sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream the mixture until it is light and fluffy. This step takes 5–7 minutes and is crucial for achieving the cake’s signature tender crumb.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air and ensures a smooth batter.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients for the best texture. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the cake light.

Step 5: Add the Flavorings

Stir in the vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts. These three flavors give the cake its signature taste—warm, nutty, and citrusy.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Carefully turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Recommendations for Recipe Success

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This allows the ingredients to mix smoothly, resulting in a velvety batter.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar Thoroughly: Beat the butter and sugar for the full 5–7 minutes to incorporate air, which contributes to a tender crumb.
3. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Adding the dry ingredients alternately with the milk prevents overmixing and ensures a consistent texture.
4. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake as it nears the end of its baking time. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
5. Cool Before Slicing: Allow the cake to cool completely to ensure clean slices and optimal flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve slices of pound cake as is or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple presentation.
• Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for a vibrant and refreshing dessert.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with a lemon glaze for extra indulgence.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Extend freshness by storing the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake (whole or sliced) in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Q1: Can I substitute the shortening in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can replace the shortening with additional butter, but the texture may be slightly less tender.

Q2: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A: While whole milk is recommended for richness, you can use 2% milk as a substitute. Avoid skim milk, as it may affect the cake’s texture.

Q3: What can I use if I don’t have almond or lemon extract?
A: You can omit the almond and lemon extracts or replace them with more vanilla extract. For a citrusy flavor, a bit of lemon zest can also work.

Q4: How do I prevent my pound cake from sticking to the pan?
A: Thoroughly grease and flour your pan, or use a baking spray with flour. Ensuring the cake is slightly cool before removing it also helps.

Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Black People’s Pound Cake is a dessert steeped in tradition and flavor. With its buttery richness and soulful combination of extracts, this cake is a true testament to the art of Southern baking. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or to share with family over coffee, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.

Ready to try your hand at this timeless treat? Follow the recipe above, and prepare to fall in love with a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Bake it today and share the joy of homemade pound cake!