Indulge in a timeless classic with our Ritz Pound Cake recipe, a moist and flavorful twist on the traditional pound cake. This iconic dessert, made famous by the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to elegant dinner parties. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that combines simplicity with sophistication.
Ingredients for the Perfect Ritz Pound Cake
Before you begin, ensure you have the following ingredients to create the ideal Ritz Pound Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
Equipment Needed
To make this recipe a breeze, gather the following equipment:
- A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer
- A 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your Bundt pan, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated. Line the bottom with a parchment paper circle for easy removal.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Eggs
With the mixer on low speed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Alternate Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients
Beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, add them to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk and heavy cream. Mix just until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Dust the cooled Ritz Pound Cake with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Enjoy!
Storage Tips
Store any leftover Ritz Pound Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Now that you have the perfect Ritz Pound Cake recipe, impress your guests with this delightful and elegant dessert. Happy baking!