Caramelized Pound Cake

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A rich and buttery pound cake with a caramelized crust, topped with a luscious caramel glaze—perfect for any occasion!


Ingredients

For the Pound Cake:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the Caramelized Crust:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • ½ cup brown sugar

For the Caramel Glaze:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or bundt pan.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth.

Step 2: Caramelize the Cake Crust

  1. Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  2. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
  3. Gently pour the cake batter over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  1. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate so the caramelized layer is on top.

Step 4: Make the Caramel Glaze

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
  2. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir and simmer for another 2 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly until it thickens.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  1. Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the cake.
  2. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.
  3. Serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh fruit if desired.