Southern Caramel Pound Cake

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup shortening
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

• For the Caramel Icing:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  Preparation

  Step 1: Cream the butter, shortening & sugar

  Mix until light and fluffy to create the perfect pound cake foundation.

  Step 2: Add the eggs

  Add eggs one at a time to ensure a smooth and rich batter.

  Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients

  Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.

  Step 4: Add dry ingredients alternately with milk

  Alternate flour mixture and milk into the batter, ending with flour. Add vanilla.

  Step 5: Bake the cake

  Pour into a greased Bundt pan and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 75–90 minutes. Cool completely.

  Step 6: Make the caramel icing

  Melt butter, add brown sugar, and cook gently until melted. Add milk, boil 2 minutes, remove from heat. Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.

  Step 7: Glaze the cake

  Pour warm caramel icing over the cake so it sinks perfectly into every groove.

  Variations

  • Salted Caramel Pound Cake: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
  • Pecan Caramel Pound Cake: Add toasted pecans inside the batter or sprinkle them on top.
  • Caramel Cream Cheese Filling: Add a cream cheese layer inside the batter for extra richness.

• Cooking Note

  Do not rush the caramel icing — slow melting prevents grainy texture.

  Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with ice cream.
  • Pair with coffee or chai latte.
  • Slice and wrap for holiday gifting.

  Tips

  • Ensure butter is room temperature for best texture.
  • Do not overmix once flour is added.
  • Allow cake to cool before glazing for the perfect caramel flow.

  Prep Time: 20 minutes

  Cooking Time: 75–90 minutes

  Total Time: About 2 hours

  Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice):

  Calories: 420
  Protein: 4g
  Sodium: 180mg

  FAQs

  Q: Can I make the icing thicker?
  Yes, add more powdered sugar for a thicker texture.

  Q: How do I store the pound cake?
  Keep covered at room temperature for up to 4 days.

  Q: Can I freeze it?
  Yes — freeze slices unfrosted, then add caramel after thawing.

  Conclusion

  Southern Caramel Pound Cake is the definition of comfort food baking — simple ingredients, deep flavor, and a caramel icing that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether for holidays, family gatherings, or Sunday supper, this cake is guaranteed to be the star of the table.