Grandma’s Pound Cake Recipe: A Timeless Classic

Name: Grandma's Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Use high-quality butter for a rich flavor.); 2 cups Granulated Sugar (Essential for sweetness.); 4 large Large Eggs (Fresh eggs provide structure.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Sifted for a light texture.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Helps the cake rise.); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances flavors.); 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (Opt for high-quality brands.); 1/2 cup Milk or Cream (Adds moisture and richness.)

Published: February 24, 2026

by liza

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This fabulous grandma’s pound cake recipe is so easy, even your cat could bake it—though I wouldn’t recommend letting Fluffy near the oven
Bursting with rich vanilla and buttery goodness, each slice is like a hug from your favorite relative
With its golden crust and fluffy interior, this cake looks as delightful as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests or just your taste buds
Whether you serve it plain, with berries, or slathered in whipped cream, this cake is versatile enough to be the star of any dessert table

I still remember the joy on my family’s faces when I surprised them with grandma’s pound cake recipe for my birthday.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make grandma’s pound cake recipe:

Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for a rich flavor and smooth texture in your cake

Granulated Sugar: This is essential for sweetness and helps create the cake’s tender crumb

Large Eggs: Fresh eggs are crucial; they provide structure and moisture to the pound cake

All-Purpose Flour: Sifted flour ensures a light and airy texture; avoid overmixing for best results

Baking Powder: A small amount helps the cake rise nicely, creating a fluffy interior

Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness of the sugar

Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth of flavor; opt for high-quality brands for best taste

Milk or Cream: Using whole milk or heavy cream adds moisture and richness to the batter

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all the ingredients: flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla. Measuring everything beforehand can streamline your process.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. This critical step adds air to your batter for a tender cake.

Add the Eggs Gradually: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. You should see a smooth texture forming. Don’t rush this; it ensures even incorporation for a rich flavor.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients, folding gently to keep the batter airy and light. Avoid overmixing for optimal texture.

Pour into Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain that lovely crumb structure.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better incorporation, resulting in a fluffier cake
Avoid overmixing once you add the flour; this can lead to a dense texture instead of that light, airy finish we all love
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or citrus zest to elevate grandma’s pound cake recipe

Perfecting the Cooking Process

grandmas pound cake recipe image 5 1 — Grandma's Pound Cake Recipe: A Timeless Classic 4

To achieve the best results with grandma’s pound cake recipe, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, which typically takes about 5 minutes. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition before incorporating the flour and milk alternately for a smooth batter.

Add Your Touch

Get creative with grandma’s pound cake recipe by swapping in different flavors. Try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist. You can also mix in chocolate chips, fresh berries, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate the taste and make it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

To store grandma’s pound cake recipe, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to four days or refrigerate for up to a week. For reheating, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.

FAQ

What ingredients are needed for grandma’s pound cake recipe?

Essential ingredients include butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla extract.

How long does it take to bake grandma’s pound cake?

Baking typically takes about 60 to 75 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I customize grandma’s pound cake recipe with flavors?

Yes, you can add lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist.