If you’ve ever wondered what pure, buttery bliss tastes like in cake form, this is it: Million Dollar Pound Cake. This classic Southern dessert is beloved for its incredibly tender crumb, rich flavor, and marvelously golden crust. I can honestly say this recipe is a showstopper for any occasion—simple enough for a weekday treat, yet impressive enough to lead your next gathering. Everything about this cake, from that first fragrant whiff as it bakes to its luxuriously moist slice, shouts “home, comfort, and celebration” in one glorious bite.

Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a handful of pantry staples can create a cake so luxurious. Each ingredient in this Million Dollar Pound Cake is carefully chosen for a reason—bringing tenderness, structure, and irresistible flavor to the mix. A little almond extract is a secret touch that truly elevates every forkful!

Unsalted butter (1 pound/2 cups, softened): The star of the show—use high-quality, room temperature butter for unmatched richness and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
Granulated sugar (3 cups): Brings sweetness and helps whip air into the batter for a fine, delicate texture.
Large eggs (6): These add moisture and bind everything together, ensuring every slice holds its shape.
All-purpose flour (4 cups): The structure builder—measure carefully and sift if you’d like an extra-tender result.
Whole milk (3/4 cup): For extra richness and that subtle, creamy softness throughout the cake.
Pure vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses the batter with warm, aromatic depth—don’t skimp!
Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A classic Southern touch—just a whisper brings out dimension and nostalgia.

How to Make Million Dollar Pound Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Set yourself up for success right from the start! Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), then generously grease and flour a 10-inch tube or bundt pan. Every nook and cranny should get some attention—this prevents sticking and gives that beautiful, golden exterior pound cake is famous for.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter alone until it’s creamy and smooth—this may take a couple of minutes, but it’s key for a fluffy batter. Gradually add the sugar, about 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is light, pale, and irresistibly billowy. This step determines the texture that makes Million Dollar Pound Cake so special, so don’t rush!

Step 3: Add the Eggs, One at a Time

Add the eggs one by one, making sure each egg is completely blended in before adding the next. This keeps the batter silky and helps it trap air for a tender crumb. Take a moment to scrape down the sides of your bowl, so everything gets incorporated evenly.

Step 4: Alternate Flour and Milk

With your mixer on low speed, add the flour and milk alternately—starting and ending with flour. For example, add a cup of flour, mix just until combined, pour in a splash of milk, then repeat. Finish with the last of the flour, and remember: Once you add the flour, mix gently and only until just blended so you don’t overwork the gluten.

Step 5: Flavor It Up

Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract, if you like. The almond lends a gorgeous, subtle aroma that’s become a calling card for Southern Million Dollar Pound Cake. Give the batter a final, gentle mix—just enough to bring everything together.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the thick, luxurious batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Slide it into the oven, and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs—no wet batter. Be patient! This slow, gentle bake ensures a dense-yet-soft texture every time.

Step 7: Cool and Release

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes—this helps it set and makes for an easier release. Invert the pan onto a wire rack and let the Million Dollar Pound Cake cool completely before slicing. The anticipation is part of the experience, trust me!

How to Serve Million Dollar Pound Cake

Garnishes

This cake shines with the simplest touches. Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a scattering of fresh berries. Lemon zest, a drizzle of chocolate, or even a spoonful of thick Greek yogurt make your Million Dollar Pound Cake look and taste even more luxurious.

Side Dishes

A big slice of pound cake is magical on its own, but serving it alongside seasonal fruits, a fresh fruit compote, or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream really takes the experience up a notch. For a cozy brunch, you might even pair it with hot coffee or sweet tea.

Creative Ways to Present

For something extra special, cut the cake into cubes for trifles, layer it with custard or mousse, or grill individual slices for a subtle toasty edge. Thin slices look elegant stacked with berries, or you can serve petite cake fingers as a sweet bite at parties. Million Dollar Pound Cake is also the ultimate canvas for decorative glazes if you’re feeling artistic!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Million Dollar Pound Cake tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It holds well at room temperature for up to 4 days, staying moist and flavorful—though it rarely lasts that long in my house!

Freezing

If you’d like to make this cake in advance, simply let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic and a layer of foil. Stored this way, it stays fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight at room temperature for the taste and texture you love.

Reheating

To enjoy that “just-baked” warmth, pop slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or gently warm them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. This revives the buttery aroma and makes every bite as irresistible as the first!

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Technically yes, but I recommend unsalted so you can control the saltiness and bring out only the pure, buttery flavors that define Million Dollar Pound Cake. If all you have is salted butter, just skip any added salt in your recipe (though this specific recipe doesn’t call for extra anyway).

What makes Million Dollar Pound Cake different from regular pound cake?

This recipe delivers a uniquely velvety, rich crumb thanks to plenty of butter, extra eggs, and slow baking at a low temperature. The combination of vanilla and a hint of almond extract sets it apart, creating a depth of flavor that lives up to its name.

How do I know when it’s perfectly baked?

Your cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick or skewer inserted into the center comes out clean—no streaks of raw batter, though a few moist crumbs are fine. If needed, check in a few spots and let your nose be your guide; the aroma is heavenly when it’s ready!

Why is room temperature butter and eggs important?

Room temperature ingredients blend together more smoothly, trapping air and creating that soft, tender crumb that Million Dollar Pound Cake is all about. Cold ingredients can lead to curdling or an uneven batter—let them sit out for at least 30 minutes if you can.

Can I bake this cake in loaf pans instead?

Absolutely! Simply divide the batter evenly among two large loaf pans and adjust the bake time—start checking around 50 minutes, but remember the total time may vary. Always use the toothpick test to check doneness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s irresistibly rich, classic, and perfect for almost any occasion, make this Million Dollar Pound Cake. It’s the cake that brings everyone running to the kitchen—one that promises memories, compliments, and plenty of happy forks scraping the plate. I truly can’t wait for you to try it and make it your new tradition!

Million Dollar Pound Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of this Million Dollar Pound Cake. A classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 pound (2 cups) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups granulated sugar
6 large eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube or bundt pan.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, beating well after each addition.
Add eggs and dry ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Alternate adding the flour and milk, beginning and ending with flour. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
Bake: Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool before serving.

Notes

Notes:

This pound cake is delicious on its own or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream.
For best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing.
Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for several days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American