I have a long history of baking French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe, and this recipe has always been a favorite to make. I was inspired to create this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe after seeing how beautifully it was baked, and I wanted to recreate that experience at home.
The main specialty of this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe is its rich, moist texture and deep vanilla flavor enhanced by French vanilla pudding and creamer.
I will now share a detailed, step-by-step guide to making this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe, showing how to achieve a tender, flavorful, and golden loaf from start to finish.
About This French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe
This French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe is rich, moist, and incredibly delicious, featuring a deep vanilla flavor that melts in the mouth.
The ingredients include unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, all-purpose flour, French vanilla instant pudding mix, French vanilla coffee creamer, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder.
The butter and sugar are creamed until fluffy, then eggs are added, followed by the pudding mix and creamer for a custard-like texture.
Flour, baking powder, and salt are gently folded in, creating a soft, dense cake that bakes to a golden, aromatic finish.
How To Prepare French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe?
To make this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe perfectly, follow each step carefully. I’ve shared clear instructions and suggested kitchen tools to make baking easier.
Even with basic equipment, you can create a moist, rich, and flavorful cake everyone will love.
Recipe Overview
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 12 slices
Kitchen Utensils
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package (3.4 oz / 96g) French vanilla instant pudding mix
- ½ cup (120ml) French vanilla creamer (or milk)
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it and lightly dusting with flour, or line it with parchment paper so the cake doesn’t stick.
2. In a large mixing bowl, take the softened butter and sugar and beat them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Next, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. Once all the eggs are incorporated, stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Now add the French vanilla pudding mix and creamer to the batter. Beat everything together until smooth and uniform.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet batter, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to over mix, or the cake could become dense.
6. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Place it in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
7. Once baked, let the cake sit in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a cooling rack to cool completely.
8. Finally, slice the cake and serve. You can enjoy it as is or sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness.
Note: For best results, use room-temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter and even baking. Do not over mix once flour is added to keep the cake tender. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for clean, neat pieces.
Nutrition Facts Of French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 kcal |
| Fat | 17g |
| Saturated fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Protein | 4g |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe because it delivers a rich, buttery flavor with a moist, tender texture that stays soft for days.
The addition of French vanilla pudding mix and creamer creates a custard-like depth that elevates the classic pound cake.
French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe bakes into a golden loaf with a slightly caramelized top, making each slice visually appealing as well as delicious.
Simple ingredients come together to create a luxurious dessert that feels homemade yet indulgent, leaving a delightful vanilla aroma that fills the kitchen while baking.
Why My Recipe Works
My French vanilla pound cake recipe works because it balances rich butter, eggs, and sugar with French vanilla pudding mix and creamer, creating a tender, moist texture that holds its shape.
The flour, baking powder, and salt are measured precisely to ensure even rising and a soft crumb. Room-temperature ingredients blend smoothly, allowing the batter to whip light and airy, while baking at the right temperature develops a golden crust without drying the interior.
This French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe careful combination of ingredients and technique produces a flavorful, custard-like pound cake every time.
Expert Baking Tips
1. Let butter and eggs sit until they reach room temperature so they blend smoothly into the batter.
2. Scoop flour gently into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid a heavy, dense cake.
3. Whip butter and sugar until light and creamy, which helps the cake rise and stay tender.
4. Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Once flour is added, fold carefully just until combined to preserve moisture.
6. Bake in a preheated oven, keeping an eye on the top for a golden finish and checking doneness with a toothpick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe sliced thick or thin to enjoy its rich, buttery flavor. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, which add a bright contrast to the sweet, custard-like cake.
Lightly dusting the slices with powdered sugar gives a delicate, elegant finish. Warm fruit compotes or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can elevate the flavor for dessert presentations.
The French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe also complements a hot cup of coffee, tea, or milk, making it a comforting treat for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a sweet ending to a meal.
Best Variations
➢ Chocolate Swirl French Vanilla Pound Cake – Fold in melted dark chocolate or cocoa powder to create a marbled effect, adding a rich chocolate flavor to the classic vanilla base.
➢ Lemon French Vanilla Pound Cake – Add fresh lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the batter for a bright, citrusy twist. A light lemon glaze on top enhances the flavor.
➢ Almond French Vanilla Pound Cake – Replace half of the vanilla extract with almond extract and sprinkle slivered almonds on top for a nutty aroma and subtle crunch.
➢ Berry French Vanilla Pound Cake – Gently fold in fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries to add fruity bursts throughout the cake.
➢ Coffee French Vanilla Pound Cake – Mix in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules or espresso powder to complement the French vanilla flavor and create a mild mocha undertone.
Additions For Extra Delicious Ideas
➤ Cream Cheese Filling – Create a soft, tangy center by swirling in a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and a hint of vanilla before baking. It adds richness and a custard-like texture inside the cake.
➤ Maple Glaze – Drizzle a warm maple syrup glaze over the cooled cake. The sweet, slightly smoky flavor enhances the buttery vanilla and gives the top a shiny, indulgent finish.
➤ Espresso or Mocha Touch – Mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso or coffee powder to the batter. This subtle coffee flavor deepens the vanilla notes and creates a sophisticated taste.
➤ Orange or Citrus Zest – Add finely grated orange, lime, or tangerine zest to the batter. The citrus oils brighten the flavor and balance the richness of the butter.
➤ Spiced Twist – Fold in warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. The spices add depth and warmth, turning the classic vanilla cake into a comforting, aromatic dessert.
Storage Instructions
Store French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days to keep it soft and moist. For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
To enjoy, thaw the frozen cake at room temperature for a few hours or warm it slightly in the oven at low heat. Avoid storing the cake uncovered, as it can dry out quickly and lose its tender, buttery texture.
FAQ For French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe
Can I use regular milk instead of French vanilla creamer?
Yes, regular milk works, though the cake will have a slightly less rich and custard-like flavor. You can also add a small extra teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Do not over mix the batter, measure flour carefully, and bake just until a toothpick comes out clean. Wrap the cooled cake to retain moisture.
Can this cake be made ahead?
Yes, it can be baked a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Why is my pound cake dense?
Over mixing the batter after adding flour, using cold ingredients, or measuring too much flour can make the cake dense. Be gentle when folding ingredients.
Conclusion
This French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe is a delicious recipe that everyone will enjoy. Every time I make it, the rich, buttery texture and custard-like flavor bring joy to anyone who tastes it.
I have prepared this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe many times for serving, and it is always well-received. Baking it brings me satisfaction, and the aroma fills the kitchen with warmth.
I am sharing my easy method so others can recreate this treat at home. I hope anyone who tries this French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe will enjoy it as much as I do every time.
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French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup 230g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups 350g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package 3.4 oz / 96g French vanilla instant pudding mix
- ½ cup 120ml French vanilla creamer (or milk)
- 2 ½ cups 315g all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it and lightly dusting with flour, or line it with parchment paper so the cake doesn’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, take the softened butter and sugar and beat them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Next, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. Once all the eggs are incorporated, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Now add the French vanilla pudding mix and creamer to the batter. Beat everything together until smooth and uniform.
- In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet batter, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to over mix, or the cake could become dense.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Place it in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, let the cake sit in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Finally, slice the cake and serve. You can enjoy it as is or sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of French Vanilla Pound Cake Recipe
Calories: 330 kcal | Fat: 17g | Saturated fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 120mg | Carbohydrates: 41g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g | Protein: 4gHi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.