Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

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Golden, buttery, and beautifully dense, this Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe is the perfect slice of Southern comfort. With a moist crumb and slightly tangy twist from the cream cheese, this cake delivers on rich flavor without being overly sweet. It’s the kind of cake that shines all on its own—no frosting needed—just a light dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of fresh berries.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply treating yourself to a homemade dessert, this pound cake is a no-fail crowd-pleaser. And because it’s sturdy yet tender, it’s also ideal for make-ahead moments or gifting.


Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

If you love classic pound cake, you’re going to adore this version. The addition of cream cheese makes the crumb ultra moist and gives the cake a richer depth without overwhelming sweetness. It’s incredibly versatile—great with coffee, layered with fruit, or even toasted for brunch.

This recipe uses pantry staples and comes together with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a reliable go-to dessert with bakery-quality results.


What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

Always opt for full-fat block-style cream cheese—not the whipped or tub varieties. The fat content in the block style is essential for the dense, moist texture that makes this pound cake so irresistible.

Also, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free batter and a uniform bake. Philadelphia brand is a popular choice for good reason, but any high-quality brand will do the trick.


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Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

Each ingredient has a purpose in achieving the perfect pound cake—tender, rich, and lightly golden. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

  • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture while helping create a soft, buttery crumb.
  • Cream Cheese (block style) – The star ingredient for a moist, dense cake with a subtle tang.
  • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its golden crust.
  • Large Eggs – Provide structure, richness, and a tender crumb.
  • All-Purpose Flour – The base that gives the cake its classic pound cake texture.
  • Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor and warmth.
  • Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

How To Make the Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually

Slowly add the sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes more.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Add the vanilla extract and salt. Gradually add the flour in three additions, mixing on low just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.


Serving and Storing Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

This recipe makes about 12 generous slices, making it a fantastic dessert for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a treat that lasts for days.

To store, let the cake cool completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, wrap it well and thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter.

The cake actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop and the texture becomes even more moist and tender.


What to Serve With Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

This cake stands strong on its own, but here are a few pairings that elevate the experience:

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add brightness and contrast to the cake’s richness.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream makes each bite extra luxurious.

Lemon Curd

Tart and silky, lemon curd is a dream match with the tangy cream cheese base.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Warm cake with cold ice cream? Always a yes.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle a little over each slice for added sweetness and complexity.

Espresso or Coffee

The dense texture pairs perfectly with a strong coffee or rich espresso.

Roasted Peaches or Apples

Warm, tender fruit brings cozy seasonal flair to your dessert.

Chocolate Ganache

For chocoholics, a glossy ganache turns this pound cake into a decadent showstopper.


Want More Classic Cake Recipes?

If you enjoyed this moist and rich cream cheese pound cake, you might fall in love with these other timeless favorites:

These treats bring comfort, sweetness, and a homemade touch to your table. Great for holidays, lunchbox surprises, or anytime cravings strike.


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can find it whenever you’re ready for your next baking day.

Have you tried adding a glaze or swirling in some berries? Let me know how yours turned out in the comments—I love seeing your takes!

Discover even more homestyle favorites and sweet inspiration on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest where dessert dreams come true.

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Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is rich, buttery, and wonderfully dense with a subtle tang from the cream cheese that sets it apart. It’s the kind of cake that works for any occasion—elegant enough for holidays and simple enough for a weeknight dessert. With a golden crust and a tender, moist crumb, it pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, ice cream, or just a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for anyone searching for easy dessert ideas, crowd-pleasing cakes, or classic southern baking recipes with a twist.


Ingredients

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

3 cups granulated sugar

6 large eggs

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon salt


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan.

2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Gradually add sugar and beat for 3-5 more minutes until light and airy.

4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Scrape down the bowl as needed.

5. Mix in vanilla extract and salt. Gradually add the flour in three additions, mixing just until combined.

6. Pour batter evenly into prepared pan. Smooth the top.

7. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool in pan for 15-20 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Notes

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest batter.

This cake actually tastes better the next day—wrap and store overnight before slicing.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 38g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: cream cheese pound cake, moist cake, bundt cake, southern dessert, easy cake recipe

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