Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a moist texture, making it perfect for any occasion. This cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, with a unique blend of sweetened condensed milk and a hint of lemon. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, this pound cake will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and lemon extracts adds a refreshing twist to the traditional pound cake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a cozy family gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Moist and Tender Texture: The addition of sweetened condensed milk ensures every slice is rich and soft.
• Customizable Glaze: The white glaze can be adjusted according to your sweetness preference, making it versatile.

Tools and Preparation

To make Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf or Bundt pan: Ensures even baking and allows for beautiful presentation.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Provides accuracy in measuring ingredients for consistent results.

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, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

1. Use an electric mixer for best results.
2. Ensure that there are no lumps before moving on.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Add the eggs, incorporating one at a time into the mixture.

1. Mix until each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 4: Combine Flour, Milk, and Extracts

Alternate adding sifted cake flour, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and lemon extract. Mix until just combined.

1. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as everything is blended.

Step 5: Pour into Prepared Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf or Bundt pan.

1. Spread evenly for uniform baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 to 75 minutes.

1. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Step 7: Prepare the White Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

1. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk; add more if needed to achieve desired consistency.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze the Cake

Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly until warm but able to absorb glaze.

1. Pour the glaze evenly over the warm cake.
2. Let it sit until set before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake is a delightful treat that pairs well with many accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a simple dessert, the right pairing can elevate your experience.

Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries: Sliced strawberries add a fresh, juicy contrast to the rich cake.
• Berries: A mix of blueberries and raspberries provides a tartness that complements the sweetness.
• Citrus: Orange or lemon slices can brighten the flavors and add zest.

Whipped Cream

• Plain Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping enhances the cake’s texture.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Add vanilla or citrus zest for an extra layer of flavor.

Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the dense pound cake.
• Sorbet: A fruit sorbet offers a refreshing option that balances the richness of the cake.

Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee: The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
• Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea can cleanse the palate and enhance the cake’s flavors.

How to Perfect Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

To achieve the best results with Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake, keep these tips in mind. Each step contributes to creating a moist and flavorful treat.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps them incorporate better, resulting in a lighter texture.
• Sift Cake Flour: Sifting helps aerate the flour, which leads to a fluffier pound cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding flour and liquids to prevent a dense cake.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before adding glaze helps it absorb without becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

Adding sides can create a more rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness to your plate.
2. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice creates an indulgent combination.
3. Caramel Sauce: Sweet caramel adds richness that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s flavor.
4. Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes provide crunch and nutty flavor for added texture.
5. Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts offer a crunchy contrast and enhance flavor complexity.
6. Custard: A light vanilla custard adds creaminess that complements each bite of pound cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly skip preheating: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure your oven reaches the right temperature before placing the cake inside.
• Boldly rush the mixing: Over-mixing the batter can make the cake dense. Mix ingredients until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Boldly ignore egg temperature: Using cold eggs can affect how well they mix with other ingredients. Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Boldly neglect cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can result in crumbling. Let it cool slightly to absorb the glaze properly before slicing.
• Boldly guess glaze consistency: A glaze that’s too thin won’t coat the cake well, while one that’s too thick will not drizzle nicely. Adjust milk gradually to achieve the desired pourable consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• To maintain freshness, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap.

Freezing Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

• Wrap the cooled pound cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, warm slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, covered, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe unique?

This recipe combines rich flavors from salted butter and sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake that stands out from traditional pound cakes.

Can I customize this pound cake recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts such as almond or orange, or include lemon zest for added flavor. Fresh fruits or nuts can also be incorporated into the batter.

How do I ensure my pound cake rises properly?

Make sure you cream your butter and sugar well until light and fluffy and incorporate eggs one at a time. This aeration helps with rising during baking.

Is there a way to make it gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long does Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe take to bake?

Typically, it bakes for about 60 to 75 minutes at 325°F (163°C), but always check with a toothpick for doneness.

Final Thoughts

Johnnie Ruth’s Pound Cake Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich texture and sweet glaze make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with flavors or add toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream to elevate your dessert experience!