If you’re searching for a classic dessert with a refined twist, this Vanilla Cognac Buttermilk Pound Cake is your perfect choice. Rich and buttery with tender crumb, enhanced by the smooth warmth of cognac and the tangy softness of buttermilk, this cake is an elevated take on the timeless pound cake.
Ideal for afternoon tea, holiday celebrations, or an elegant finish to any meal, this pound cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Makes 8 to 10 servings
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cognac or brandy
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 60 to 70 minutes
- Cooling time: 15 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, mix the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and cognac.
- With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60 to 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices plain or with whipped cream and fresh berries.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of cognac for a truly decadent experience.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/10 cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 22 grams |
| Sodium | 180 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Buttermilk tenderizes the crumb while adding subtle tang and calcium.
- Cognac adds depth and aroma, enhancing the vanilla notes.
- Butter and eggs provide richness, moisture, and protein for a satisfying texture.
- This cake offers a classic balance of indulgence with familiar pantry ingredients.
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix once dry and wet ingredients are combined; overmixing can make the cake dense.
- Check the cake at 60 minutes to avoid overbaking — ovens vary.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Variations to Try
- Substitute cognac with bourbon, rum, or brandy depending on preference.
- Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty aroma.
- Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped toasted pecans for texture.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and cognac for added sweetness and shine.
This Vanilla Cognac Buttermilk Pound Cake is a luscious, tender dessert that elevates traditional pound cake with the subtle sophistication of cognac and the soft tang of buttermilk. Easy to prepare and richly flavorful, it’s an excellent choice for celebrations or anytime you want to impress with a classic homemade cake.