Classic Southern Butter Pound Cake
Classic Southern Butter Pound Cake is a rich, golden dessert beloved across generations…There’s a reason why old-fashioned pound cakes never go out of style. With a rich, buttery crumb and a golden exterior, classic-southern-butter-pound-cake is the kind of timeless dessert that has been passed down through generations — and for good reason.
This pound cake isn’t just a sweet treat. It’s a Southern staple, made with love, patience, and the kind of ingredients you already have in your pantry. It’s the type of cake that shows up at every family reunion, every Sunday dinner, and every celebration. And when it’s made right, like this version from Ms. Johnny Ruth herself — it’s truly unforgettable.
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If you’re drawn to nostalgic cakes like this one, don’t miss our Lemon Cream Cake, which adds a citrusy twist to creamy sweetness. For more moist and golden classics, the Pineapple Juice Cake is also a must-bake for Southern dessert lovers.
Ingredients Needed for Classic Southern Butter Pound Cake
For the Cake:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup shortening (like Crisco)
3 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs, room temperature
3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
1 Tbsp pure vanilla extract
Optional: ½ tsp lemon or almond extract for extra depth
For the Glaze (Optional but Delicious):
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 Tbsp milk or lemon juice
½ tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Classic Southern Butter Pound Cake
This recipe makes a large, dense cake with a perfectly golden crust and rich interior. Follow these steps closely for authentic Southern results:
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Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease and flour a Bundt or tube cake pan. This cake needs space to rise, so don’t skimp on pan size.
Step 2: Cream the Fats and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, shortening, and sugar for 5–7 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is key to the cake’s airy texture.
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Step 3: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
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Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a different bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in thirds, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Flavor and Finish the Batter
Stir in the vanilla extract, and if desired, add lemon or almond extract for additional Southern charm.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack. Once fully cooled, drizzle with the optional glaze made by combining powdered sugar, milk or lemon juice, and vanilla.
Helpful Tips and Variations
Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and proper texture.
Sift your flour — it gives the cake an ultra-light crumb.
Swap lemon juice in the glaze for a citrus zing.
Add fresh zest (lemon or orange) to the batter for aromatic flavor.
For a rich twist, fold in chopped pecans or toasted coconut.
Storage Instructions
Ms. Johnny Ruth Pound Cake is perfect for make-ahead occasions:
Room Temp: Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 days.
Fridge: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Slice and wrap each piece in plastic + foil. Freeze up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature or reheat slices slightly for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Time and Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12–14 thick slices
Tools Needed
Large mixing bowl
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Bundt or tube pan
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Cooling rack
Measuring cups & spoons
Toothpick for testing doneness
Final Thoughts
This Classic Southern Butter Pound Cake brings a rich, buttery texture that never fails to impress. If you’re craving something Southern, buttery, and nostalgic, Ms. Johnny Ruth Pound Cake is the answer. It’s a rich, golden dessert that fits perfectly on a holiday table, but is simple enough for Sunday baking too. Whether glazed or plain, this cake stands tall in both flavor and tradition.
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