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Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake

A bright and tender pound cake enriched with cream cheese, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dessert treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened Room temp for smooth creaming.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Unsalted helps control salt.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Caster sugar if you have it.
  • 4 large eggs Bring to room temp first.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and level for accuracy.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Fresh for best rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Works with lemon acidity.
  • 1/4 cup lemon zest Grate only the yellow peel.
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice Fresh-squeezed tastes best.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warm depth.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan, and tap out excess flour.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until very smooth and creamy, scraping the bowl often.
  3. Gradually add the sugar, beating until the mixture looks light and fluffy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda together.
Baking
  1. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet in two or three additions until just combined; stop when flour streaks are no longer visible.
  2. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Tap the pan once on the counter to release air pockets.
  4. Bake for 60–70 minutes until the top is golden, edges pull slightly from the pan, and a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

For a different sweet twist, try folding in a cup of fresh blueberries or a teaspoon of lavender for a floral lift. Can be served with butter, whipped cream, or fresh berries.