Buttermilk Pumpkin Pound Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that brings together the warmth of fall spices and the richness of buttermilk. This cake has a tender crumb, a wonderful pumpkin flavor, and is perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a comforting treat. Topped with a luscious glaze, this pumpkin pound cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pound Cake
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Make the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add Pumpkin and Vanilla: Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more buttermilk as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pound Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the cake to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Recipe Variations
- Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for extra spice.
- Nutty Pumpkin Pound Cake: Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute the buttermilk in the glaze with pure maple syrup for a sweet, maple-flavored topping.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes! You can use homemade pumpkin puree, just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
Q: How do I store leftover pound cake?
A: Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
- With Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a perfect dessert.
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy treat.
Buttermilk Pumpkin Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and tender crumb. The addition of buttermilk keeps the cake moist, while the pumpkin adds a rich, comforting flavor. Whether served at a holiday gathering or as an everyday treat, this cake is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious pound cake!
