Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. This classic dessert is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply a cozy afternoon tea. With its moist texture and rich flavor, this pound cake stands out with its unique twist of sweetened condensed milk and zesty extracts. It’s not just a cake; it’s a memorable experience that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and extracts creates a luscious taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Perfect as is or dressed up with fruits or whipped cream for any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The glistening white glaze gives it an elegant look that’s sure to wow your guests.
• Perfect Texture: The sweetened condensed milk adds moisture, making each slice tender and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items you’ll need to create Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Loaf pan or Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools streamline the creaming process, ensuring the butter and sugar blend perfectly for a light texture.
• Loaf pan or Bundt pan: The shape of your pan determines the cake’s baking time and presentation; choose one that suits your style.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing ingredients while keeping your workspace tidy.

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, ensuring they cook through without burning.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
1. Use a stand mixer on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
2. Scrape down the sides to ensure everything is mixed evenly.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step ensures that each egg is fully incorporated into the batter for a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Gradually add in the sifted cake flour, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and lemon extract. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
1. Start on low speed to avoid flour clouds.
2. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see dry flour.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a prepared loaf or Bundt pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 to 75 minutes.
1. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready.

Step 6: Prepare the White Glaze

While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
1. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk; add more until you reach a pourable consistency but thick enough to coat.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

Once baked, allow your cake to cool slightly until warm but not hot. Pour the glaze evenly over it so it can absorb all that delicious sweetness.
Let it set before slicing to serve!

How to Serve Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the pound cake topped with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and sweetness that complements the dense texture of the cake.

As French Toast

• Transform leftover slices into an indulgent French toast by dipping them in an egg mixture and frying until golden brown. Serve with syrup or fruit compote.

With Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream for a delightful dessert that balances warmth and coolness.

With Citrus Glaze

• Drizzle additional citrus glaze over the cake before serving to enhance its flavor profile with a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

To achieve the perfect Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips for exceptional results every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift your flour: Sifting helps to aerate the flour, leading to a lighter cake.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined after adding flour and liquids to prevent a dense texture.
• Check doneness early: Start checking the cake around 50 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overbake; every oven varies.
• Let it cool properly: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before glazing helps it absorb the glaze without becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Enjoying Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake can be enhanced with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy and crunchy contrast.
3. Citrus Salad: Combine orange segments, grapefruit, and mint for a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the cake.
4. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside crunchy granola clusters for texture and flavor diversity.
5. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup enhances flavors and pairs beautifully with desserts.
6. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when it comes to making a perfect pound cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients – Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a better texture. Cold ingredients can result in a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix until just combined after adding flour and liquids. Overmixing can lead to a tough pound cake.
• Skipping the cooling step – Letting the cake cool before glazing is essential. Skipping this can cause the glaze to run off instead of setting.
• Not measuring accurately – Use precise measurements for best results. A kitchen scale can help ensure accuracy, especially for flour and sugar.
• Opening the oven door too soon – Resist checking on your cake for at least 60 minutes. Opening the door can cause it to sink in the middle.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pound cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe special?

This recipe stands out due to its rich flavor from salted butter and sweetened condensed milk, which create a moist texture that is simply delightful.

Can I substitute ingredients in Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe?

Yes! You can use unsalted butter instead of salted, or replace some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for added depth.

How do I know when my pound cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached. This typically takes between 60-75 minutes, depending on your pan size.

Can I add flavors to Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Consider adding almond extract, chocolate chips, or lemon zest for different flavor profiles that suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also quite versatile. Its buttery richness pairs well with various toppings or can be enjoyed plain. Feel free to experiment with flavors and glazes to make it your own! Try this recipe today—it’s sure to impress family and friends.