If you want a dessert that’s both rich and refreshingly tangy, the lemon cream cheese pound cake is an ideal choice. This classic cake features a moist, buttery crumb enhanced by the subtle tang of cream cheese and zesty lemon. It’s perfect for teatime, celebrations, or any occasion when you want to impress with a simple yet elegant treat.
With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this pound cake recipe delivers bakery-quality results right in your kitchen. Pair it with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a stunning presentation.
Ingredients
This recipe makes one 9×5 inch loaf cake, serving 10 to 12 slices.
- One cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- Four ounces cream cheese, softened
- Two cups granulated sugar
- Four large eggs, room temperature
- Three cups all-purpose flour
- One teaspoon baking powder
- One half teaspoon salt
- One tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- One quarter cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or a simple lemon glaze
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 60 to 70 minutes
- Cooling time: 15 minutes before removing from pan
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius).
- Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Cream Cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Carefully remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on the wire rack.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a lemon glaze before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch.
- Pair with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee.
- Add a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for extra sweetness and shine.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/12th of cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 39 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 26 grams |
| Sodium | 210 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Cream cheese adds a creamy texture and a small amount of protein.
- Lemon zest and juice provide vitamin C and a fresh citrus flavor without added calories.
- This pound cake is a rich treat best enjoyed in moderation.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center toward the end of baking time.
- Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent melting.
Variations to Try
- Add a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
- Swap lemon zest for orange or lime zest to change the citrus profile.
- Use a bundt pan for a different shape and extra crusty edges.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
Lemon cream cheese pound cake is a delightful blend of richness and refreshing citrus, perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and bright flavor will have you coming back for another slice. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.