Name: Perfect Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened; 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 3 cups sugar; 6 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

A perfect cream cheese pound cake is wonderfully rich, dense, and buttery, ideal for serving on its own or with a light garnish of fruit or whipped cream. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
3 cups (600g) granulated sugar
6 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, sifted
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two loaf pans.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cheese

In a large bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese together until smooth using a mixer on medium speed.
Gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, beating on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes in the bundt pan or about 60 minutes in the loaf pans, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
The cake is best when it's completely cooled. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with berries and cream.

Tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
Sifting Flour: Sifting the flour helps to keep the cake light and airy.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined to ensure the cake remains tender.

This cream cheese pound cake is delightful when served as a dessert or enjoyed as a special treat with coffee or tea. Its velvety texture and rich flavor make it a favorite for any occasion!