If you’ve ever tasted a pound cake that’s rich, moist, and full of flavor, then you know how unforgettable it can be. This Black People’s Pound Cake recipe is the ultimate expression of comfort and tradition, blending simple ingredients into a masterpiece that will wow your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is more than just a dessert – it’s an experience! Here’s why you should absolutely try it:

  • Rich and Buttery Flavor: The dense, velvety texture and buttery taste make this pound cake pure indulgence in every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that’s satisfying without being overly sweet.
  • Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! Flour, sugar, eggs, and butter—this cake is easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
  • Versatile: Whether you prefer it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or paired with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or ice cream, this cake can be customized to suit your taste.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s perfect for meal prepping, gifting, or freezing. You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it later.
  • Cultural Legacy: This pound cake is not just a treat—it’s a celebration of heritage and tradition, passed down through generations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this irresistible pound cake lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 6 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds wonderful depth of flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings:

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
  • Whipped cream or ice cream
  • Caramel sauce or fruit compote

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bake this soulful masterpiece? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if you’re using it).

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will help ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined—be careful not to overmix, or your cake might be dense.

Step 6: Pour into the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly across the top. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 75–90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust it with powdered sugar or serve it with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh fruit.


This Black People’s Pound Cake is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and tradition. It’s sure to become a family favorite, whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee. Enjoy!