If you’re craving a cake that’s perfectly moist, rich, and indulgent, then this Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake is your go-to recipe. With a soft, buttery texture and the perfect blend of cream cheese, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Topped with a creamy glaze, it’s a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or treating yourself to something sweet, this cake will make any moment extra special.
Tools You’ll Need to Make Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Before we start, let’s get organized with the tools and ingredients needed for this delicious cake. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this indulgent treat to life:
- Bundt or tube pan (greased and floured)
- Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer for beating)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls (one large for the cake batter, and another for the glaze)
- Spatula (for smoothing the cake batter and glazing)
- Sifter (for sifting dry ingredients)
- Toothpick (to test doneness)
- Cooling rack (to cool the cake evenly)
Serving Size:
This recipe makes a cake that serves 12-16 people, depending on portion size.
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes (before transferring to a wire rack)
- Total Time: About 2 hours
Ingredients for Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Here’s your ingredient list to make this rich, velvety pound cake:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups cake flour (or all-purpose, sifted)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional for a subtle nutty flavor)
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (to desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preparing your baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick during baking. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Then, grease and flour a bundt or tube pan thoroughly. This will help ensure that your cake comes out easily once it’s baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes around 3 to 5 minutes. The goal is to get a soft, smooth consistency that will form the base for your pound cake.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Beat Until Fluffy
Gradually add in the granulated sugar, about ½ cup at a time, and continue to beat until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. This should take around 3 minutes. The sugar not only sweetens the cake but also helps create the perfect texture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The mixture should remain light and fluffy throughout this step. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to get an even blend.
Step 5: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps and helps the cake rise evenly.
Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Mixture
Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently, just until the ingredients are combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage, as this can affect the texture of the cake. You want a smooth batter with no flour streaks.
Step 7: Stir in the Extracts
Now, stir in the vanilla extract and, if desired, the almond extract. The almond extract is optional but highly recommended for a lovely, subtle nutty flavor that complements the cream cheese perfectly.
Step 8: Pour the Batter Into the Prepared Pan
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared bundt or tube pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even layer across the pan. This will help the cake bake uniformly.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so be sure to check at the 1-hour mark and monitor closely.
Step 10: Cool the Cake
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Afterward, carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to remove the cake. Let it cool completely before glazing.
Making the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the delicious cream cheese glaze that will drizzle over the top for an added richness.
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar
Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until combined. The glaze will begin to thicken, so be sure to incorporate the sugar gradually to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Adjust the Consistency
Add milk or heavy cream one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition, until you reach a thick but pourable consistency. The glaze should be smooth and easy to drizzle.
Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract
Finally, stir in vanilla extract for an extra burst of flavor. Your glaze is now ready to drizzle over the cooled cake.
Tips for Success with Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, even batter.
- Do Not Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can cause the cake to be dense.
- Sift the Flour: Sifting the flour helps avoid clumps and ensures your cake has a lighter texture.
- Proper Cooling: Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before inverting it. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking.
- Customize the Glaze: You can adjust the glaze consistency by adding more or less milk, depending on whether you want a thicker or thinner glaze.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips:
- This Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake is perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, holiday meal, or casual get-together. Serve it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate treat.
- For a touch of elegance, you can also add fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on top before serving.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
- You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for cake flour, but make sure to sift it to avoid lumps and ensure a lighter texture.
2. Can I make this cake without almond extract?
Yes, almond extract is optional. If you prefer a more traditional flavor, you can omit it and just use vanilla extract.
3. Can I use a different pan if I don’t have a bundt pan?
You can use a tube pan or even a regular round cake pan, but keep in mind that the baking time may vary depending on the size of the pan.
4. How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If not, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake actually tastes even better the day after baking, as the flavors have time to meld together. Store it covered and glaze just before serving.
Conclusion
This Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the epitome of comfort and indulgence. The combination of soft cream cheese, butter, and eggs creates a moist, flavorful cake, while the cream cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a slice of homemade goodness, this cake will surely hit the spot. Follow the recipe and tips for a perfect bake every time, and enjoy a slice of this decadent treat with family and friends. Happy baking!
