Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

The Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With its rich color and velvety texture, this cake not only looks stunning but also tastes amazing. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this cake is sure to impress. The addition of cream cheese glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the chocolatey notes of the cake beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: This pound cake features the classic taste of red velvet, enhanced by the richness of butter and cream cheese.
• Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions make baking this cake simple, even for novice bakers.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or as a sweet treat at home.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant red color makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.
• Customizable Glaze: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with the optional cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan or tube pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Sifter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan or tube pan: Essential for achieving the classic pound cake shape and ensuring even cooking.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy, resulting in a light texture.
• Sifter: Helps aerate the flour and cocoa powder, leading to a more tender cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp distilled white vinegar
• 2 cups cake flour (sifted)
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 oz (2 tbsp) red food coloring (liquid or gel)

Optional Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325F (163C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan or tube pan generously to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process should take about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add eggs one at a time into the mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and distilled white vinegar until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together cake flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure they are well mixed.

Step 5: Mix Buttermilk and Food Coloring

In a small bowl or cup, combine buttermilk with red food coloring. Stir until well blended.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients mixture and red buttermilk mixture into the batter. Start with the dry ingredients and end with them. Mix just until everything is incorporated; do not overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Gently tap it on the counter to remove any air bubbles and smooth out the top. Bake in preheated oven for 75-85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Check at around 70 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Optional Cream Cheese Glaze

To make the glaze, beat softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing. Then mix in milk little by little until you reach your desired pourable consistency. Finally, stir in vanilla extract.

Step 10: Drizzle Over Cake

Once your Red Velvet Pound Cake is completely cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over it for an extra touch of flavor before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own, allowing the rich flavors to shine. The smooth cream cheese glaze adds an irresistible touch.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair the cake with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the pound cake beautifully.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top of a warm slice. The melting ice cream creates a delicious contrast with the dense cake.

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy a slice alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The flavors meld perfectly, making for a comforting afternoon treat.

Festive Platter

• Arrange slices on a decorative platter for special occasions. Garnish with mint leaves or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.

Breakfast Treat

• Enjoy cold slices as breakfast paired with yogurt and granola. This combination makes for an indulgent yet satisfying start to your day.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Perfecting your Red Velvet Pound Cake takes some tips and tricks. Follow these guidelines for the best results every time you bake this delicious treat.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting helps to aerate and combine dry ingredients evenly, leading to a lighter cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix only until ingredients are combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, preventing undercooking or overbaking.

• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.

• Experiment with Food Coloring: Adjust the amount of red food coloring based on your desired color intensity.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

Pairing side dishes with Red Velvet Pound Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some of the best options you can consider:

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds airy sweetness that pairs well with dense cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness that balances the richness of the pound cake.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over slices brings out additional flavor notes and indulgence.
4. Nutty Granola: Serve granola on the side for added crunch and texture—perfect if you enjoy it as breakfast.
5. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea provides soothing warmth that complements the sweet flavors of the cake.
6. Creamy Yogurt: Plain or flavored yogurt adds tanginess which contrasts nicely against the sweetness of the cake.
7. Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for tropical flair and additional texture.
8. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce enhances sweetness and adds depth to each bite of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze even more delicious. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping room temperature ingredients – Using cold eggs or buttermilk can affect the batter’s texture. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before mixing.

• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Improper measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.

• Ignoring cooling time – Cooling the cake in the pan for too long can cause it to become soggy. Follow the cooling instructions closely for the best results.

• Using low-quality food coloring – Poor quality food coloring can result in a faded color. Choose a gel or liquid food coloring designed for baking to achieve that vibrant red hue.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; it keeps well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covering with a lid, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze.

Can I use a different type of food coloring?

Yes, you can use natural alternatives like beet juice, but they may yield different colors and flavors compared to traditional food coloring.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend formulated for baking that includes xanthan gum for stability.

What is the best way to store leftover cream cheese glaze?

Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within one week. You may need to re-whip it before using again.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice and use dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze.

How can I customize my Red Velvet Pound Cake?

Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different extracts like almond or mint to give your cake a unique touch!

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is not only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful. Its rich texture and sweet glaze make it perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Feel free to get creative with toppings and flavors, making this recipe truly your own!