Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. This cake is perfect for celebrations, family dinners, or simply enjoying with your afternoon tea. Its rich flavor, moist texture, and sweet glaze make it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps allow anyone to create this delicious cake without any hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and extracts results in a rich and satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers, this pound cake fits right in.
• Glaze Perfection: The white glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that elevates the cake to another level.
• Great for Sharing: With its generous size, this pound cake is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan or Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan or Bundt pan: Essential for shaping your cake perfectly while allowing for even baking.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by properly creaming the butter and sugar.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure you get precise measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake

• 3 sticks (1 cup) salted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 7 large eggs
• 2 cups cake flour
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons lemon extract

For the White Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or crème bouquet)

How to Make Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature is ideal for baking pound cakes evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl:
1. Add the salted butter and granulated sugar.
2. Use an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs

1. Gradually add the large eggs, one at a time.
2. Ensure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next one.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk

1. Alternate adding the sifted cake flour, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and lemon extract.
2. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf or Bundt pan.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 to 75 minutes.
3. Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.

Step 6: Prepare the White Glaze

While the cake bakes:
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, starting with 2 tablespoons of milk. Add more as needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 7: Finish Your Cake

Once baked:
1. Allow it to cool slightly until it’s warm but not hot.
2. Pour the glaze evenly over the warm cake so it can soak in nicely.
3. Let it set before slicing and serving.

Enjoy every slice of Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of freshness and color to each slice.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream complements the rich cake, making every bite indulgent.

Side of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or lemon-flavored ice cream provides a creamy contrast that enhances the cake’s flavors.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A rich chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and decadence.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Serve slices with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor in Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring butter, eggs, and condensed milk to room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Properly Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven reaches the correct temperature before placing your cake inside for even baking.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done. Adjust baking time as needed based on pan size.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool slightly before pouring on the glaze so it absorbs without becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these options for a delightful meal presentation.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the richness of the pound cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that complements the cake’s sweetness.
3. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut treats add texture and flavor contrast alongside each slice of pound cake.
4. Lemon Sorbet: A light, tangy sorbet cleanses the palate between bites of sweet pound cake.
5. Chocolate-Covered Almonds: Crunchy nuts coated in chocolate provide an enjoyable texture contrast.
6. Savory Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses offers a unique savory pairing that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can affect your cake’s texture and flavor.

• Boldly skip the creaming step: Rushing through the creaming of butter and sugar can lead to a dense cake. Take the time to cream them until light and fluffy for the best results.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or butter can hinder proper mixing. Always bring your eggs and butter to room temperature before starting.
• Boldly overmix the batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can result in a tough pound cake. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
• Boldly neglect pan preparation: Skipping this step may cause your cake to stick. Grease and flour your pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal.
• Boldly misjudge baking time: Every oven is different! Check your cake at the minimum baking time with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• The pound cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, monitoring closely.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe.

What makes Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe unique?

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe stands out due to its rich buttery flavor and moist texture, enhanced by sweetened condensed milk.

Can I customize Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add lemon zest or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Experiment with different extracts too!

How do I prevent my pound cake from sinking?

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, and avoid overmixing once you add the flour. Proper oven temperature is also essential.

What is the best way to serve Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake?

Serve it plain or with fresh fruits and whipped cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar also makes it visually appealing.

Final Thoughts

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and richness, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors or serve it with various toppings. Give this recipe a try; you might just discover your new favorite dessert!