Introduction
Elvis Presley’s favorite pound cake is a rich, buttery dessert that has become iconic due to its association with the King of Rock and Roll. This classic Southern treat showcases the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it a beloved choice for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
The History
Pound cake originated in the 18th century and was traditionally made with a “pound” each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Over time, recipes evolved to include additional ingredients like milk, vanilla extract, and baking powder for lighter textures. Elvis Presley’s love for this dessert became well-known during his lifetime, as he often requested it at home or on tour. His preference for a denser, richer version solidified its place in culinary history.
Ingredients Breakdown
This pound cake relies on high-quality, simple ingredients to deliver its signature flavor:
- Butter: Adds richness and enhances the cake’s texture.
- Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Eggs: Acts as a binding agent while contributing moisture and structure.
- All-purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cake and gives it structure.
- Milk: Increases moisture content and creates a softer crumb.
- Vanilla Extract: Elevates the flavor profile with warm, aromatic notes.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise without becoming dense.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Follow these detailed steps to recreate Elvis Presley’s favorite pound cake:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add 4 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with 1 cup of whole milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for approximately 75-90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
To ensure success with this recipe, consider the following tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients for better incorporation and smoother batter.
- Avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a tough cake.
- If using a bundt pan, tap it gently on the counter after pouring the batter to release any air bubbles.
- For extra moisture, brush the cooled cake with a simple syrup made from equal parts water and sugar.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to personalize this classic pound cake to suit your tastes:
- Add citrus zest (lemon or orange) for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Fold in fresh berries or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an elegant finish.
- Experiment with almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique take on the traditional recipe.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While pound cake is undeniably indulgent, you can make healthier adjustments if desired:
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for increased fiber content.
- Reduce the sugar by about ¼ cup without significantly affecting the taste.
- Replace some of the butter with applesauce or yogurt to lower fat content.
Nutritionally, a standard slice of pound cake contains around 300-400 calories, depending on size and additions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
Directions
Refer to the step-by-step recipe above for detailed instructions.
FAQ
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Margarine can be used, but it may affect the flavor and texture. For best results, stick with real butter.
How long will the cake keep?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Why is my pound cake dense?
Overmixing or incorrect measurements are common culprits. Ensure you measure ingredients accurately and mix only until just combined.
Summary
Elvis Presley’s favorite pound cake is a timeless dessert known for its luxurious texture and comforting flavor. With easy customization options and a straightforward preparation process, it’s a must-try for bakers of all skill levels.
