Few desserts are as timeless and comforting as a pound cake. It’s rich, dense yet tender, and carries flavors beautifully. But when you add tangy buttermilk for moisture, a kiss of vanilla for warmth, and a silky cream cheese glaze that melts over the top? You elevate a classic into pure indulgence: Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze.
This is the kind of cake that steals the spotlight on any dessert table. Simple enough for afternoon coffee, elegant enough for holidays, and so delicious you’ll find yourself sneaking slices at midnight.
Why This Pound Cake Works So Well
Traditional pound cakes use equal parts butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. This version modernizes the classic with buttermilk, which gives the cake:
- Extra moisture without heaviness
- A subtle tang that balances the sweetness
- A tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb
Pair that with vanilla for depth of flavor and a cream cheese glaze that’s both rich and tangy, and you’ve got a dessert that feels luxurious but approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pound Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk (to thin)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract