There's something truly magical about a well-made Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake. With its velvety texture, buttery richness, and a bright, citrusy kick, this classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Whether you're serving it at a dinner party, enjoying it with afternoon tea, or indulging in a quiet moment of sweetness, this cake strikes the perfect balance between decadent and refreshing.
What sets this recipe apart is the addition of cream cheese, which adds moisture and a subtle tang, and a generous dose of lemon extract for that unmistakable citrus zing. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this irresistible dessert.
Ingredients for Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake
1 and 1/2 cups butter, room temperature
The base of any good pound cake, butter provides richness and structure. Ensure it's softened to cream easily with the sugar and cream cheese.
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
Adds a luxurious creaminess and tang that keeps the cake moist and enhances its flavor profile.
6 large eggs, room temperature
Eggs bind the ingredients together, giving the cake its soft, tender crumb. Using room-temperature eggs ensures a smoother batter.
3 cups granulated white sugar
Sweetens the cake while also contributing to the tender crumb. The sugar also helps in achieving that golden crust during baking.
3 cups all-purpose flour
The structure of the cake. Measure carefully to avoid a dense result.
1 tablespoon lemon extract
This is the key flavor enhancer, providing the bright, citrusy aroma and taste that defines the cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Coat a 10-cup tube pan or bundt pan with solid vegetable shortening and a dusting of sugar, or use a specialized release product like Wilton Cake Release. This ensures the cake releases cleanly and has a beautifully crisp outer layer.
2. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow for even baking.
3. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. This step is essential for ensuring the cake has a consistent texture.
4. Add the Sugar
Gradually add the sugar, beating until the mixture becomes fluffy and lightens in color. This step incorporates air into the batter, leading to a tender crumb.
5. Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures each egg is fully incorporated and the batter remains smooth.
6. Add the Flour Gradually
Slowly add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so be gentle.
7. Flavor with Lemon Extract
Stir in the lemon extract to evenly distribute the bright, citrus flavor.
8. Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with dry crumbs.
9. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a serving tray. Cool completely before slicing or storing in an airtight container.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Moist: The cream cheese and butter create a cake that stays moist for days.
- Bright and Citrusy: The lemon extract adds a fresh, zesty flavor that’s perfect for any season.
- Beautiful Presentation: A bundt or tube pan creates an elegant, sculpted cake that’s ideal for special occasions.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pound Cake
- Measure Precisely: Use a kitchen scale or level off your flour to prevent a dense cake.
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth, cohesive batter.
- Don’t Rush Cooling: Let the cake cool completely before covering or storing to avoid trapping moisture and creating a soggy texture.
- Use High-Quality Extracts: Premium lemon extract makes all the difference in flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake with:
- A dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a light dessert.
- A drizzle of lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and tang.
- A side of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Conclusion
This Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the ultimate dessert for lemon lovers. With its perfect balance of richness and citrusy brightness, it’s as delightful to eat as it is easy to make. Impress your family and friends with this timeless recipe, and enjoy a slice (or two) of perfection. Try it today and savor the magic of homemade baking!