Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze

Name: Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Whisked Delight Recipes

This Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze is a delightful treat that combines a rich vanilla flavor with a zesty lemon finish, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:40:18.987Z

This Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. The moist and buttery cake pairs perfectly with the bright and tangy lemon glaze, making it a delightful dessert for any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and buttery texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect balance of sweetness and citrus tang
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Great for both special occasions and everyday desserts

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze is the perfect dessert. Its rich and buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy glaze, making it a favorite for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. You can serve it plain for a comforting treat or dress it up with fresh berries for an elegant presentation.

This cake is not just a delicious dessert; it also makes for a wonderful gift. Wrapped in a decorative box or served on a pretty plate, it’s sure to impress friends and family. Plus, its simple yet sophisticated flavor profile appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this Vanilla Pound Cake, it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour, as too much can result in a dense cake. Additionally, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugar, which is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you incorporate the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender crumb. And remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and glazed, this Vanilla Pound Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

For serving, consider slicing the cake and serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, can also enhance the flavor and add a pop of color to your dessert table. No matter how you serve it, this pound cake is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

Combine all the ingredients to create a delicious cake and glaze!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Glaze

While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is baked and cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze!

Understanding Pound Cake

Pound cake has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century, and its name comes from the traditional recipe that called for a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. This simple formula results in a dense, moist cake that serves as a blank canvas for various flavors and toppings. While modern recipes have evolved, the essence of pound cake remains the same—rich, buttery, and incredibly satisfying.

The versatility of pound cake is one of its most appealing traits. It can be flavored with a variety of extracts, spices, and citrus, making it adaptable for any season or occasion. From chocolate chips to almond extract, the possibilities are endless, allowing bakers to create personalized variations that suit their tastes.

The Role of Lemon in Baking

Lemon is a fantastic addition to baking, not just for its refreshing flavor but also for its ability to enhance the overall taste of desserts. The acidity in lemon juice can help balance sweetness, making it a perfect complement to rich cakes like this Vanilla Pound Cake. The zest adds an extra layer of citrus aroma that elevates the cake’s profile and provides a burst of flavor with every bite.

Using fresh lemon juice and zest is highly recommended for the best results. The bright, vibrant taste of fresh lemons is unmatched by bottled varieties, ensuring your glaze is lively and flavorful. Plus, the vibrant yellow hue of lemon zest adds visual appeal, making your cake not only delicious but also beautiful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but it may alter the taste slightly. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.

→ How do I store leftover pound cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this pound cake?

Yes, you can freeze the pound cake without the glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

→ Can I substitute the milk in the recipe?

Yes, you can use almond milk or any other milk alternatives for a dairy-free option.