Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease and flour a Bundt or tube pan to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating for 3–5 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and creating structure.
3. Add Eggs One at a Time
Add eggs individually, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even blending.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with sour cream. Begin and end with flour. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
6. Add Flavoring
Stir in vanilla extract (and almond extract or lemon zest if using).
7. Bake to Perfection
Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top and gently tap the pan on the counter to remove air bubbles.
Bake for 70–85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool Properly
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Ideas
Sour Cream Pound Cake is wonderfully versatile. Serve it:
With fresh strawberries and whipped cream
Lightly toasted with butter
Drizzled with lemon glaze
Alongside coffee or tea
With a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Its sturdy texture also makes it ideal for layering or using in trifles.
Storage Tips
This cake stores beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container:
At room temperature for up to 3 days
Refrigerated for up to a week
Frozen for up to 3 months
Many bakers swear it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
A Recipe That Never Fails
Sour Cream Pound Cake is proof that simple ingredients, treated with care, can create something truly special. It doesn’t rely on trends or complicated techniques—just balance, patience, and quality ingredients.
Bake it once, and it’s likely to become your go-to cake for holidays, gatherings, or quiet afternoons when only something classic will do.
