Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake is a classic dessert beloved for its dense, buttery crumb and golden crust. Passed down through generations, this traditional cake embodies the warmth of family gatherings and Sunday dinners in the South. Simple yet rich in flavor, it pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup shortening
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and lightly flour a 10-inch tube or Bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract until evenly distributed.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, slice, and serve.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 490
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 125mg
• Sodium: 140mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 68g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 42g
• Protein: 7g

History and Origin of Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake

Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake traces its roots back to the traditional European pound cake, which originally used a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Adapted over generations in the American South, the recipe evolved to reflect local tastes and ingredients, becoming a staple dessert at family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. This cake is not only a testament to the South’s rich culinary heritage but also a symbol of home, comfort, and tradition.

Key Characteristics of the Pound Cake

What sets Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake apart is its dense, moist texture combined with a buttery richness and a golden crust. Unlike lighter cakes that rely heavily on leavening agents, this pound cake’s tenderness comes from the balance of fats and careful creaming of butter and sugar. The subtle hints of vanilla and almond extracts add a fragrant depth, making it a timeless favorite.

Why Use Both Butter and Shortening?

Many traditional recipes call for a combination of butter and shortening to achieve the ideal texture. Butter provides a rich, creamy flavor and contributes to the cake’s tenderness, while shortening helps maintain moisture and structure. Together, they create a perfect crumb that is moist yet firm enough to hold its shape when sliced.

The Role of Eggs in This Recipe

Eggs serve multiple purposes in Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake. They bind ingredients together, add moisture, and contribute to the cake’s dense yet tender crumb. Using room temperature eggs allows for better incorporation during mixing, resulting in a lighter texture despite the cake’s richness.

Milk’s Importance for Moisture and Texture

Whole milk is used to add moisture and tenderness to the cake. The fat content in whole milk enhances the cake’s rich mouthfeel while the liquid helps to dissolve sugar and disperse the flour evenly. This balance is key to achieving a pound cake that’s neither too dry nor overly dense.

Classic Flavoring: Vanilla and Almond Extracts

The use of both vanilla and almond extracts in this pound cake recipe provides a complex aroma and flavor profile. Vanilla adds warmth and sweetness, while almond extract introduces a nutty undertone that complements the buttery richness perfectly. These extracts elevate a simple cake into a nostalgic Southern dessert.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of homemade fruit syrup can add a bright contrast to the cake’s buttery base. It also works well with coffee or tea, making it an ideal dessert for afternoon gatherings or after-dinner treats.

Variations to Try for Different Flavors

While the classic recipe is beloved, there are many creative twists to explore. Adding citrus zest like lemon or orange can brighten the flavor. Swirling in chocolate chips or folding in fresh fruit pieces offers texture and taste variations. For a more indulgent treat, some bakers brush the warm cake with a rum glaze or serve it with caramel sauce.

Storage Tips to Maintain Freshness

To keep the pound cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid refrigeration for short-term storage as it can dry out the cake.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Information

While Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake is a delicious indulgence, it is important to enjoy it in moderation due to its richness and sugar content. This cake is calorie-dense, with significant amounts of fat and sugar, making it less suitable for those on low-fat or low-sugar diets. However, it does provide some protein from the eggs and dairy, and homemade versions allow control over ingredient quality.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pound Cake Every Time

Achieving the perfect pound cake requires attention to detail. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure even mixing. Avoid overmixing once the flour is added to prevent a tough texture. Use a good-quality pan and prepare it properly to ensure easy release. Baking slowly at a lower temperature helps develop the golden crust without drying out the interior.

Conclusion

Southern Style Grandma’s Pound Cake remains a cherished classic dessert that embodies comfort, tradition, and rich Southern flavors. Its simple ingredients and timeless preparation method create a cake that’s both satisfying and versatile, perfect for family celebrations or quiet moments of indulgence. Whether enjoyed plain or with accompaniments, this pound cake continues to be a beloved sweet treat that connects generations through the shared joy of baking and eating.