Vanilla Bean Pound Cake

Vanilla Bean Pound Cake is a timeless and decadent dessert that brings together the rich aroma of vanilla beans and the moist, dense texture characteristic of pound cakes. This indulgent treat is a celebration of simplicity and elegance, making it a perfect addition to any occasion or a delightful everyday dessert.

What is Vanilla Bean Pound Cake
Vanilla Bean Pound Cake is a variation of the traditional pound cake that incorporates the fragrant seeds from vanilla beans, infusing the cake with an intense and complex vanilla flavor. The use of real vanilla beans sets this cake apart, giving it a distinctive taste and aroma that elevates the entire baking experience. The result is a moist and tender cake with a fine crumb, perfect for savoring on its own or as a base for various toppings and accompaniments.

How to Make Vanilla Bean Pound Cake
Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Seeds scraped from 1 or 2 vanilla beans
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a bundt pan or a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract and scraped vanilla bean seeds.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

What to Serve with Vanilla Bean Pound Cake
Vanilla Bean Pound Cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with:

• Fresh berries or a berry compote
• Whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream
• A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
• Dusting of powdered sugar

How to Store Leftover Vanilla Bean Pound Cake
To store leftover Vanilla Bean Pound Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices or the entire cake in an airtight container for up to three months. To thaw, simply bring it back to room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes.