Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. Its rich, velvety texture and vibrant color make it a showstopper at celebrations, while the creamy glaze adds an irresistible finish. This cake is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a unique twist on classic pound cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich taste of butter and sugar creates a moist cake that feels indulgent.
• Vibrant Color: The striking red hue not only looks stunning but also adds to the festive spirit of any gathering.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual afternoon tea, this cake fits perfectly.
• Creamy Finish: The optional cream cheese glaze elevates the cake, adding sweetness and a touch of tang.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious journey of making Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, gather your tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure smooth preparation and baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• 12-cup bundt pan or tube pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, ensuring a light batter.
• Bundt pan: Provides a beautiful shape for your cake, allowing it to bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping ingredients organized while preparing your cake.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp distilled white vinegar
• 2 cups cake flour (sifted)
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 oz (2 tbsp) red food coloring (liquid or gel)

Optional Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan generously to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the softened butter and granulated sugar.
2. Beat until light and fluffy, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavors

1. Add eggs one at a time to the mixture, beating well after each addition.
2. Mix in vanilla extract and vinegar until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Sift together the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Buttermilk Mixture

In another small bowl:
1. Combine buttermilk with red food coloring until well mixed.

Step 6: Mix Batter

Alternately add the dry ingredients and red buttermilk mixture into the batter:
1. Start with dry ingredients; mix just until incorporated before adding more.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
3. Tap gently to remove air bubbles and smooth the top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 75-85 minutes:
1. Check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean.
2. Start checking at around 70 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Step 9: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze

While cooling:
1. Beat cream cheese until smooth in a bowl.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar; mix until well combined.
3. Slowly incorporate milk until you achieve a pourable consistency.
4. Stir in vanilla extract; drizzle over cooled cake before serving.

Now you have an exquisite Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy family gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake topped with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of flavor and color.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream to create a delicious contrast of textures and temperatures.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top for an extra layer of indulgence.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy your cake alongside a cup of brewed coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage complements the richness of the cake perfectly.

Decorative Presentation

• Place slices on elegant plates and drizzle extra cream cheese glaze over them for a visually appealing touch.

Afternoon Tea Treat

• Serve small pieces during afternoon tea gatherings, offering guests a delightful sweet treat along with savory snacks.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

To make your Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze even more delightful, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can result in toughness.
• Check Oven Temperature: Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, as ovens can vary widely.
• Let it Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to prevent breaking or crumbling.
• Experiment with Colors: If desired, adjust the amount of red food coloring based on how vibrant you want your cake to be.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

When enjoying Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, consider these delectable side dishes that pair well with its rich flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and balances the richness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert elevates your meal’s indulgence while complementing chocolate notes in the pound cake.
3. Pecan Pie Bars: A nutty, caramel-rich treat that offers delightful crunch alongside each slice of cake.
4. Lemon Sorbet: A light citrus-flavored sorbet cleanses the palate and enhances the overall dessert experience.
5. Cheese Platter: Offer a variety of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese, which provide creaminess that pairs beautifully with the sweet cake.
6. Caramelized Apples: Sweet apples cooked in butter and sugar create warm flavors that contrast nicely with the cold cream cheese glaze.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Using the wrong oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the batter’s texture. Always allow eggs and buttermilk to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring Cooling Times: Removing the cake too early can cause it to break apart. Follow cooling instructions carefully for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cream cheese glaze separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference when thawing.

Reheating Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat slice for about 10 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Warm on medium power for 15-20 seconds per slice, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze.

What makes a cake a pound cake?

A pound cake traditionally contains equal weights of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, resulting in a dense yet moist texture that is perfect for slicing.

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes! You can mix regular milk with vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute. Use one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for five minutes.

How do I achieve the perfect red color in my cake?

Using gel food coloring provides more vibrant results than liquid colorants. Adjust the amount according to your desired shade but start with 1 ounce (2 tablespoons).

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Red Velvet Pound Cake can be baked ahead and stored properly. Just frost it close to serving time for best flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is not only visually stunning but also rich in flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different flavors or toppings. Give this recipe a try; your friends and family will be impressed!