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Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Introduction
Rich, dense, and buttery with a silky crumb, Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luxurious dessert that bridges the simplicity of traditional pound cake with the richness of cream cheese. Perfect as a centerpiece for holidays, brunches, or an elegant weeknight indulgence, this cake is a showstopper served plain or dressed up with berries and whipped cream. The cream cheese adds tang and moisture, elevating this classic bake into something truly special.
Origin and Cultural Significance
While not traditionally Italian, the name “Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake” likely stems from its inspiration drawn from the famed Italian Cream Cake—a Southern U.S. classic with Italian-American influences, often featuring cream cheese frosting and coconut. The pound cake itself is deeply rooted in European baking, with the original recipe consisting of a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. By incorporating cream cheese, this modern twist reflects American culinary innovation, combining old-world baking with new-world richness.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (for a nutty note)
- 3 cups cake flour (if you’d like the full finished batter proportions)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange (adds brightness)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for texture)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)
- Fresh berries and whipped cream (for serving)
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending and a smoother batter.
- Cream the butter, cream cheese, and sugar thoroughly—this step builds volume and gives the cake its fine texture.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to prevent curdling.
- Don’t overmix once you add flour (if used)—overmixing can make the cake tough.
- Bake slowly at a lower temperature (e.g., 325°F) to ensure even cooking and avoid a dry exterior.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing for best structure.
Instructions (assuming a complete cake recipe with flour)
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or tube pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and airy—about 4–5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- (If using flour, vanilla, and salt): Slowly add sifted cake flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in vanilla or other flavorings.
- Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Description
Golden on the outside and velvety on the inside, this pound cake is rich, moist, and subtly tangy thanks to the cream cheese. The texture is dense yet soft, perfect on its own or with a light topping. Its buttery aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, promising a satisfying and indulgent treat with every bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate; based on 12 slices and basic ingredient list)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 32g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 160mg
Values will vary with additional ingredients such as flour or nuts.
Conclusion
Italian Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a timeless dessert that delivers rich flavor and an indulgent texture with minimal ingredients. It’s equally at home at a family gathering or an elegant celebration. Versatile and crowd-pleasing, this cake deserves a spot in every baker’s rotation.
Recommendation
Serve slices with a dusting of powdered sugar, or go the extra mile with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of berries. For an after-dinner treat, it pairs beautifully with espresso or dessert wine. It also makes an excellent base for trifles and layered desserts.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Though rich, this cake can still align with a balanced approach to eating. Enjoy it in smaller portions, pair it with fresh fruit, or make ingredient swaps like reduced-fat cream cheese or natural sweeteners. Savoring a small slice with mindfulness and appreciation turns this classic indulgence into a joyfully healthful moment.
Would you like a version of this recipe that includes flour and leavening for the full cake structure?