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; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Vanilla Pound Cake with a zesty lemon glaze. Perfectly moist and rich, it's a treat for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T18:01:19.991Z

This Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavor of vanilla with a refreshing citrus twist. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet indulgence at family gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor balanced with a tangy lemon glaze
Moist and buttery texture that melts in your mouth
Simple to make yet impressive enough for special occasions

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

This Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavor. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a family gathering, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this cake fits the bill perfectly. The combination of rich vanilla and zesty lemon creates a harmonious balance that pleases the palate and leaves everyone wanting more.

Additionally, its impressive appearance makes it a great centerpiece for any dessert table. With its golden-brown crust and glossy lemon glaze, this cake looks as good as it tastes. It’s the kind of dessert that invites compliments and requests for the recipe, making it a fantastic choice for both casual and formal occasions.

Simple Ingredients, Stunning Results

One of the best aspects of this Vanilla Pound Cake is its simplicity. Made with everyday ingredients, this recipe proves that you don't need fancy or hard-to-find components to create a stunning dessert. The use of unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and fresh eggs ensures that the flavor is rich and indulgent, while whole milk adds to its moist texture.

The lemon glaze is equally straightforward, requiring just powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and zest. This allows the bright citrus flavor to shine through, elevating the cake without overwhelming it. With just a few steps, you can transform these basic ingredients into a delightful dessert that will impress your family and friends.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pound Cake

For the best results, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting. This will allow for better incorporation of air during the creaming process, leading to a lighter cake. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined helps maintain the cake's airy texture.

Another tip is to let your cake cool completely before glazing. This ensures that the glaze sets nicely and doesn’t run off. If you want to add a twist, consider incorporating poppy seeds into the batter for an extra layer of flavor and texture. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to baking the perfect vanilla pound cake.

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake

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

For the Lemon Glaze

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

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

Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled cake.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, this Vanilla Pound Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. To keep it fresh for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. If you want to extend its shelf life even further, consider freezing the cake. Simply slice it and wrap each piece individually before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave something sweet.

For serving, this cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries can also complement the flavors perfectly, adding a touch of color and freshness to your dessert presentation.

Variations to Try

While the classic vanilla and lemon combination is delightful, you can easily customize this pound cake to suit your taste. Consider adding almond extract for a nuttier flavor profile, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. You could also experiment with different citrus glazes, such as orange or lime, to create a unique twist on the original recipe.

Another fun variation is to incorporate seasonal ingredients. During the summer, try adding fresh strawberries or raspberries to the batter. In the fall, consider swirling in some pumpkin puree for a delightful seasonal flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a new favorite with every bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor extract?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftover pound cake?

Store the pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the pound cake?

Yes, you can freeze the pound cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.