Vanilla Pound Loaf

The Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake is a classic and versatile dessert loved by many for its simplicity and delicious flavor. In this article, we will explore how to make this delightful treat step by step.

Ingredients Required

To prepare a Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 225 g or 1 ¾ cups Plain / All-purpose flour (sieved)
• 2 Teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ Teaspoon salt
• 175 g or ¾ cup softened butter
• 150 g or ¾ cup regular sugar
• ⅔ Cup or 150 ml Milk
• 2 Large eggs (lightly beaten)
• 1 & ½ Teaspoons Vanilla Extract

Step-by-step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Baking Tin

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 170°C or 325°F.
2. Grease and Line: Grease and line your baking tin to prevent the cake from sticking.

Mixing the Ingredients

1. Sieve the Flour: Start by sieving the flour into a mixing bowl. Add the salt and baking powder to the flour and mix well.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it becomes pale and light in color.
3. Add Eggs: Slowly add the lightly beaten eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing on a low speed setting. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a spoonful of sieved flour to stabilize it.
4. Incorporate Milk and Flour: Gradually add half of the milk and half of the flour to the mixture while keeping the mixer on a slow speed. Once combined, add the remaining milk and flour, gently folding until fully incorporated.

Baking the Cake

1. Transfer to Baking Tin: Transfer the cake mixture into the greased and lined loaf tin, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 5 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.
3. Cooling: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Tips for Success

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture.
• Use good quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Testing for Doneness

To ensure your Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake is fully baked, insert a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Enjoying Your Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake

Once cooled, slice your Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake and serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.

Conclusion

The Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress with its simplicity and rich flavor. With these easy-to-follow instructions, you can recreate this classic treat at home and enjoy it with friends and family.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter for this recipe?

• While you can substitute margarine for butter, it may affect the taste and texture of the cake slightly.

1. Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter?

• Yes, feel free to customize your Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the batter for extra flavor and texture.

1. Can I freeze the Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake?

• Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

1. Can I use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat flour?

• You can experiment with different flours, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture of the cake.

1. How long will the cake stay fresh?

• When stored in an airtight container, the Vanilla Pound Loaf Cake will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days at room temperature.