Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze

Name: Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich flavors of this Vanilla Pound Cake drizzled with a zesty lemon glaze. Perfect for tea time or as a sweet treat any time of the day!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:48:19.308Z

This Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze is a classic dessert that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. The combination of buttery vanilla cake and fresh lemon glaze creates a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and buttery texture that melts in your mouth
Zesty lemon glaze adds a refreshing twist
Perfect for any occasion, from casual to elegant

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

This Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze is a delightful dessert that transcends seasons and occasions. Whether you're hosting a tea party, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Its buttery texture and rich vanilla flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, while the lemon glaze adds a refreshing note that brightens each bite.

Not only is this cake delicious, but it is also visually appealing. The glossy lemon glaze drizzled over the golden cake creates an inviting presentation that will impress your guests. Serve it on a beautiful cake stand or alongside fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Vanilla Pound Cake, make sure to use room temperature ingredients. Softened butter and eggs mix more easily, creating a lighter and fluffier texture. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the dry and wet ingredients; this can lead to a denser cake.

Another tip is to check the doneness of your cake using the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, but not wet batter. If the cake needs more time, continue baking in five-minute increments.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Vanilla Pound Cake is baked and glazed, you may want to store any leftovers. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be thawed quickly for a delicious treat anytime.

When serving, consider pairing this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, also complements the flavors beautifully, adding a pop of color and freshness to your dessert presentation.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Ingredients Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Lemon Glaze

While the cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top and allow it to set before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze!

Variations to Try

While the classic Vanilla Pound Cake is a beloved choice, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Consider adding a tablespoon of almond extract for a nutty twist or folding in chocolate chips for a decadent variation. You could even substitute the lemon glaze with orange or lime for a citrusy alternative.

If you're looking to incorporate seasonal ingredients, try adding fresh berries or a swirl of homemade fruit preserves into the batter before baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful visual element to your cake.

Pairing Beverages

To enhance your Vanilla Pound Cake experience, consider pairing it with the right beverage. A cup of freshly brewed tea, such as Earl Grey or chamomile, complements the cake's flavors wonderfully. If you prefer coffee, a light roast will not overpower the delicate vanilla and lemon notes.

For a more festive touch, serve the cake with sparkling lemonade or a glass of prosecco during celebrations. The effervescence of these drinks pairs beautifully with the moist cake, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but be sure to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without the glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I substitute for milk?

You can use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk as a substitute.