Pound Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a slice of Black People’s Pound Cake. Baked with love and patience, this cake is iconic in African American households — a true symbol of heritage and celebration. The recipe uses simple pantry staples, but the magic comes from the slow baking, the buttery richness, and the love poured into every step.

This isn’t just cake — it’s a cultural tradition that tastes like comfort and feels like home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & buttery – Classic old-school flavor that never goes out of style.
• Perfect texture – Dense, moist crumb with a crisp golden crust.
• Simple ingredients – Pantry staples, no shortcuts.
• Family tradition – A true soul food dessert for gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 sticks (1 ½ cups) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup vegetable shortening
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk (or evaporated milk for richness)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon extract (optional, for brightness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan

• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Grease and flour a Bundt or tube pan generously.

Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, shortening, and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).

Step 3: Add Eggs

• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Dry & Wet

1. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add dry mixture to creamed mixture in three parts, alternating with milk.
3. Stir in vanilla (and lemon extract if using).

Step 5: Bake Low & Slow

• Pour batter into prepared pan.
• Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool in pan for 15 minutes, then turn onto a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
• Serve with fresh berries & whipped cream.
• Pair with coffee or sweet tea.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze (vanilla, lemon, or cream cheese).

Tips & Variations

• Use room temperature ingredients for best mixing.
• Don’t rush — the slow bake at 325°F creates the iconic golden crust.
• For extra richness: swap half the milk for heavy cream.
• Freezer-friendly: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of butter + shortening creates the perfect balance of richness and tenderness. The slow bake locks in moisture while creating a crisp, caramelized crust — the signature of a true Black People’s Pound Cake.

Final Slice

Golden, buttery, and baked with tradition, this Black People’s Pound Cake is more than dessert — it’s a piece of heritage. One bite, and you’ll understand why it has stood the test of time as a beloved soul food classic.

So preheat that oven, whip out the Bundt pan, and bake yourself a slice of history.