Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or a 9×5-inch loaf pan. You can also use baking spray with flour for convenience.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and cream cheese together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Flavorings
- Add the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Beat on low speed after each addition.
- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) and mix until smooth.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
- Alternate Adding Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and the whole milk in three parts. Start with the flour mixture, then add milk, and continue alternating until everything is incorporated. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 55-70 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, or with just a few crumbs.
- Tip: Check the cake halfway through baking. If it starts to brown too quickly on top, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent overbrowning.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This helps the cake firm up and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
- After 15 minutes, carefully invert the pan onto a cooling rack and let the cake cool completely.
Step 8: Make the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and heavy cream (if using) until smooth. You can add more lemon juice to adjust the consistency or flavor as desired. The glaze should be thick enough to drizzle but thin enough to spread over the cake.
Step 9: Glaze the Cake
- Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more controlled drizzle.
- Let the glaze set for about 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and texture.
- Fresh Berries: Pair the cake with fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and a fresh, fruity contrast to the richness of the cake.
- Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice of this lemon cream cheese pound cake with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. The cake’s rich, zesty flavor pairs perfectly with a hot beverage.
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures that everything blends together smoothly.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause the cake to become dense. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Baking Time: Since ovens vary, check the cake at the 55-minute mark, but be prepared for it to take a little longer. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil.
- Flavor Variations: If you want to experiment, try adding a teaspoon of lemon extract or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Why This Cake Is a Must-Try:
This Lemon Cream Cheese Pound Cake offers a delightful balance of richness and brightness. The cream cheese gives the cake a soft, moist crumb, while the fresh lemon juice and zest provide a refreshing citrusy flavor that lifts the cake to new heights. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, special occasion, or just because, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tastes it!