Five Flavor Pound Cake

A classic dessert, Five Flavor Pound Cake is a symphony of taste that balances sweetness, richness, and aromatic extracts. With its moist crumb and irresistible glaze, it’s perfect for celebrations or just a cozy afternoon treat. Let’s dive into this recipe and bring a burst of flavor to your kitchen!

📋 Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup shortening (or additional butter for extra richness)
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 teaspoon butter extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon lemon extract
• ¼ teaspoon butter extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• ¼ teaspoon coconut extract

👩‍🍳 Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube pan, ensuring all crevices are coated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the butter and shortening until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
• Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until fully incorporated and creamy.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Reduce the mixer speed to low. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
• Stir in the five extracts (vanilla, lemon, butter, almond, and coconut) until evenly blended.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and all five extracts.
• Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides for a beautiful finish.

🌟 Variations

• Citrus Boost: Add fresh lemon or orange zest to the batter for a tangy twist.
• Nutty Delight: Stir in finely chopped pecans or almonds for added texture.
• Chocolate Twist: Replace the coconut extract with chocolate extract for a subtle cocoa undertone.

📝 Cooking Notes

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Pan Preparation: Grease and flour the pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.
• Glaze Tip: Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the glaze to ensure it sets properly.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

💡 Tips

• Use high-quality extracts for the best flavor.
• Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense texture.
• Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it moist for up to 4 days.

⏰ Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

📊 Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

(Based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 21g
• Sodium: 160mg

❓ FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best taste.

2. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use fewer extracts?
Yes, but the unique blend of five flavors gives this cake its signature taste. Feel free to experiment with the combination.

🎉 Conclusion

The Five Flavor Pound Cake is a timeless dessert that brings joy with every bite. Its perfect balance of flavors, moist texture, and versatility make it a must-try for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Bake it today and savor the magic of five irresistible flavors! 🍰