Few desserts offer the timeless comfort of a pound cake, and this Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze takes that classic charm to an entirely new level. Rich, buttery, and perfectly dense, this pound cake is elevated by the tangy creaminess of buttermilk and finished with a silky, sweet cream cheese glaze that melts into every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a family gathering, or simply indulging in an afternoon treat, this cake offers everything you love about homemade baking: nostalgic flavors, a beautiful presentation, and satisfying texture. From its golden crust to its moist crumb, this pound cake will become your new go-to dessert recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake
- Ultra-moist texture thanks to the combination of buttermilk and butter.
- Classic vanilla flavor with deep, aromatic notes.
- Dense but tender crumb, perfect for slicing and sharing.
- Elegant glaze that adds richness and just the right amount of sweetness.
- Versatile and timeless—serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream.
Ingredients for Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake
For the Cake:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (2 sticks/226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (120g) vegetable shortening (or use all butter for a richer texture)
- 2 3/4 cups (550g) granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make the Perfect Pound Cake
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan or 10-inch tube pan thoroughly. You can also use baking spray with flour.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, shortening, and granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale in color—about 4–5 minutes using an electric mixer. This step ensures a soft, tender crumb.
4. Add the Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps emulsify the batter and keep it stable.
5. Incorporate the Buttermilk and Flour
- Mix the vanilla extract into the buttermilk.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and the buttermilk mixture into the batter, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
6. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Tap the pan on the counter gently to release any air bubbles.
- Bake for 75 to 85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack and let cool completely before glazing.
How to Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and milk one tablespoon at a time. Whisk until a smooth, pourable glaze forms.
- Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled pound cake, letting it cascade down the sides for a beautiful, bakery-style finish.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps everything blend smoothly and evenly.
- Don’t skip the creaming step: Creaming butter and sugar properly incorporates air, resulting in a lighter texture.
- Cool completely before glazing: If the cake is too warm, the glaze will melt off.
- Make ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Freeze for later: You can freeze the unglazed cake wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Just thaw and glaze when ready.
Serving Suggestions
This Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake is versatile enough to enjoy plain, but here are a few serving ideas to elevate it:
- Serve with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a strawberry shortcake twist.
- Top with toasted pecans and caramel drizzle for a Southern-inspired treat.
- Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic à la mode dessert.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
A Southern Classic with a Modern Finish
This Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of baking tradition. With its golden crust, velvety crumb, and rich glaze, it brings warmth to every occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a slice of something sweet, this cake is the perfect choice.
Homemade, heartfelt, and incredibly delicious—try this recipe once, and it will earn a permanent spot in your baking rotation.