Mile High Ultimate Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Soft Caramel Glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cream Cheese Pound Cake with Caramel Glaze

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Large mixing bowls
• Bundt pan (10-12 cups capacity)
• Saucepan
• Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pound Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and generously grease and flour a Bundt pan.
2. Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sugar, beating until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Add the Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This will create a smooth, airy batter.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour and 15–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Soft Caramel Glaze

1. Melt Butter and Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously, for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
2. Add Heavy Cream and Vanilla: Remove from heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Return the saucepan to the stove, reduce heat to low, and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the glaze is smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. Cool Slightly: Allow the glaze to cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the cooled cake.

Step 3: Glaze and Serve

1. Drizzle the Caramel Glaze: Carefully pour the caramel glaze over the top of the cooled pound cake, allowing it to drizzle down the sides.
2. Let Set and Serve: Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy each slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence!

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Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Pound Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are all at room temperature for the smoothest batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Beating too much after adding the flour can create a dense, heavy cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding the glaze to prevent it from sliding off.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This pound cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a special touch, top each slice with fresh berries or chopped nuts. This cake is perfect for celebrations, holiday dinners, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing dessert.

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Storing and Freezing Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (without glaze) in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add fresh caramel glaze before serving.

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