Luscious Vanilla Bean Pound Cake

Name: Luscious Vanilla Bean Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

I absolutely love baking this Luscious Vanilla Bean Pound Cake whenever I need a treat that’s both comforting and elegant. The rich aroma of vanilla fills my kitchen while it bakes, which totally elevates the experience. Each slice is irresistibly tender and has a lovely buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. The addition of real vanilla bean specks makes a delightful visual and taste difference that store-bought cakes can’t match. Join me in creating this sumptuous cake that’s destined to impress at any gathering!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:57:27.776Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was on a mission to create a cake that reminded me of my childhood. The distinct richness of vanilla bean was a must, and it took several tries to get it just right. I discovered that using high-quality ingredients, especially the vanilla beans, made all the difference. Each bite transports me back to those early baking days with my grandmother.

One key tip I learned is to let the cake rest after baking. This not only enhances the flavors but also allows for a moist crumb. I recommend covering it with a clean kitchen towel as it cools to retain that delicious moisture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, aromatic flavor from real vanilla beans
Perfectly moist texture that melts in your mouth
Versatile cake ideal for any occasion, from tea time to celebrations

Understanding Vanilla in Pound Cake

The hallmark of this Luscious Vanilla Bean Pound Cake is undoubtedly the real vanilla content. Using both vanilla extract and seeds from a split vanilla bean heightens the flavor complexity. The extract gives a consistent vanilla taste, while the flecks from the bean provide visual appeal and bursts of flavor. When selecting your vanilla bean, look for ones that are plump and fragrant; they should feel sticky and moist to ensure maximum flavor release into the batter.

In terms of substitution, if you don’t have a vanilla bean, you can increase the vanilla extract to 3 teaspoons for a similar depth. However, the unique texture and look that the bean provides cannot be completely replicated, making it worth the investment, especially for special occasions.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

A key factor in achieving the irresistibly moist and tender texture of this pound cake is the creaming process. Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature; it should be easily spreadable but not melting. Creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy will incorporate air, leading to a lighter cake. This stage usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Be patient; rushing this step can result in a denser cake.

Another crucial step is the alternating addition of dry ingredients and buttermilk. This technique helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to toughness. Mix just until combined; you should still see a few tiny flour streaks. The batter might look a bit lumpy, and that’s perfectly fine - it will smooth out in the oven.

Storing and Serving Your Pound Cake

After cooling completely, this cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for several hours. This cake maintains its moistness beautifully when frozen, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

This pound cake is incredibly versatile. You can serve it plain, dust it with powdered sugar, or drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. For an extra touch, add seasonal fruits or whipped cream on top, turning it into a delightful dessert centerpiece. Pair it with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery cake.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Luscious Vanilla Bean Pound Cake:

For the Cake

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk

Make sure everything is at room temperature for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your perfect pound cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch loaf pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract and scraped seeds from the vanilla bean.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious pound cake with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake rises unevenly or has a dome shape, ensuring that your oven is properly calibrated can prevent this. An oven thermometer is useful to confirm it's truly at the desired temperature. Additionally, be cautious not to open the oven door multiple times while baking, as this can cause temperature fluctuations and affect the rise.

Another common concern could be a dry pound cake. Make sure not to overbake; start checking for doneness a few minutes early. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

If you’d like to make more than one loaf, this recipe can be easily doubled. When pouring the batter into multiple pans, fill them about two-thirds full to allow for rising. Alternatively, if you want to make a smaller cake, simply halve the ingredient amounts and use a smaller loaf pan. Baking time will also decrease, so keep an eye on it! A smaller cake may take around 40-50 minutes.

To add variety, consider infusing different flavors by substituting some of the buttermilk with a flavored yogurt or adding citrus zest for a refreshing twist. It’s a fun way to experiment while keeping the core essence of the pound cake unchanged.

Perfect Pairings

Drinking a cup of tea or coffee alongside a slice of this pound cake elevates the experience. A floral tea, like Earl Grey, complements the rich vanilla flavor beautifully, while a robust coffee balances the buttery notes of the cake. For a more indulgent treat, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Consider creating a dessert platter by pairing slices with different toppings. A dollop of fresh whipped cream, a spoonful of fruit compote, or even a chocolate drizzle can elevate the already scrumptious cake, making it suitable for various occasions from casual bites to elegant dessert tables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean?

Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for the vanilla bean, but the flavor may be less intense.

→ How do I store the pound cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze the pound cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, ice cream, or even a simple fruit compote.