Annette’s Cream Cheese Pound Cake

🍰 Annette’s Cream Cheese Pound Cake 🍰

History 📜:
Annette’s Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a classic and delightful dessert that has been cherished for generations. Its origins can be traced back to traditional pound cakes, which date back to the early 18th century in Europe. Pound cakes were initially made with a pound each of flour, butter, eggs, and sugar, hence the name “pound” cake. Over time, variations and improvements led to the creation of cream cheese pound cake.

Components 🧀🥚🍰:

1. Cream Cheese: This rich, tangy ingredient gives the cake a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor.
2. Butter: Provides moisture and a rich, buttery taste to the cake.
3. Sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb.
4. Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
5. Flour: The main dry ingredient that forms the cake’s structure.
6. Baking Powder or Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise.
7. Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with its sweet and aromatic notes.

Steps to Prepare 🍽️:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a bundt pan or a cake pan of your choice.
2. Creaming: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter and 1 package (8 ounces) of cream cheese until smooth.
3. Sugar & Eggs: Gradually add 3 cups of granulated sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add 6 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix.
5. Flavoring: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a delightful aroma.
6. Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact time may vary, so keep an eye on it.
7. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparation Time ⏰:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Baking: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cooling: Variable, but typically around 1 hour

This Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a timeless treat that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of toppings, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Its rich and moist texture, combined with the tanginess of cream cheese, makes it a beloved dessert for any occasion. Enjoy! 🍰😊👌

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for a typical serving of Cream Cheese Pound Cake:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per slice (varies based on slice size)
• Total Fat: About 20-25 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 12-15 grams
• Cholesterol: Around 100-120 milligrams
• Sodium: Approximately 200-250 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: About 35-40 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: Less than 1 gram
  • Sugars: 25-30 grams
• Protein: 4-6 grams

Health Information:

1. Moderation is Key: Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delicious but calorie-dense dessert. Enjoy it in moderation to manage your calorie intake.

2. High in Saturated Fat: Due to the cream cheese and butter, this cake is relatively high in saturated fat. Saturated fat should be consumed in moderation as it is linked to heart health concerns.

3. Sugar Content: Pound cakes tend to be sweet, so be mindful of your sugar intake. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.

4. Portion Size: Pay attention to portion sizes. Smaller slices can help control calorie and sugar intake.

5. Balanced Diet: Enjoy Cream Cheese Pound Cake as an occasional treat within the context of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

6. Customization: Consider modifying the recipe with healthier ingredients, such as whole wheat flour, reduced-fat cream cheese, and less sugar, to make it a bit more nutritious.

Remember, while Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful indulgence, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.