Black People Pound Cake – A Beloved Family Tradition
Introduction
This Black People Pound Cake is more than just dessert—it’s a piece of history, culture, and family gatherings. Known for its rich, buttery flavor and tender crumb, this cake has been passed down through generations, often appearing at Sunday dinners, church socials, and holiday celebrations.
The recipe is simple yet indulgent, with a blend of butter and shortening for richness, six eggs for structure, and a touch of vanilla for warmth. Baked low and slow, it emerges golden, fragrant, and ready to be sliced into thick, satisfying pieces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Heritage recipe: A cake with deep cultural roots and family tradition.
Rich flavor: Butter and shortening create a moist, tender crumb.
Feeds a crowd: Perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Timeless classic: Simple ingredients, unforgettable taste.
Ingredients
3 cups all‑purpose flour
3 cups granulated sugar
6 large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup shortening
1 cup whole milk
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Generously grease and flour a bundt or tube pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, shortening, and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 5: Flavor
Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 6: Combine
Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 7: Bake
Pour batter evenly into prepared pan. Smooth the top. Bake 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool
Cool in pan 15 minutes, then turn out onto wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Room temperature eggs: Help the batter mix smoothly.
Don’t overmix: Keeps the cake tender.
Pan prep: Grease and flour generously to prevent sticking.
Flavor boost: Add almond extract or lemon zest for variation.
Variations
Lemon Pound Cake: Add lemon juice and zest for brightness.
Marble Pound Cake: Swirl in cocoa for a chocolate twist.
Holiday Style: Dust with powdered sugar or glaze with vanilla icing.
Layered Pound Cake: Slice and serve with strawberries and whipped cream.
Serving Ideas
Serve plain with coffee or tea.
Pair with ice cream for indulgence.
Top with macerated berries for freshness.
Present on a cake stand for celebrations.
FAQs
Q: Why use both butter and shortening?
Butter adds flavor, while shortening keeps the cake moist and tender.
Q: Can I freeze pound cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I bake in loaf pans instead of bundt?
Absolutely—divide batter into two loaf pans and adjust baking time.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 1 hour 20–30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12–16 slices
Final Thoughts
This Black People Pound Cake is a true classic—rich, moist, and steeped in tradition. Whether served at family gatherings or enjoyed with a quiet cup of coffee, it’s a recipe worth preserving and passing down.