Mile High Pound Cake Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a mile high pound cake that towers above the rest, isn’t there? Imagine slicing into a buttery, spice-kissed cake with a tender crumb, each bite infused with the cozy warmth of nutmeg and cinnamon. Now picture drizzling a creamy eggnog glaze over it, adding a touch of holiday cheer to every serving. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, this mile-high pound cake recipe is your ticket to dessert perfection. Ready to create a show-stopping cake that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat? Let’s get started!

1. What Makes This Mile High Pound Cake Recipe So Special?

Have you ever wondered what sets a truly unforgettable pound cake apart from the rest? For starters, this mile high pound cake isn’t just about its impressive height—it’s about flavor, texture, and that little something extra that makes it unforgettable. Let me break it down for you:

Homemade Eggnog Magic: The secret ingredient here is a homemade eggnog substitute, which adds a creamy richness to both the cake and the glaze. It’s like wrapping your taste buds in a warm, spiced hug—perfect for cozy evenings or holiday celebrations.

Spices That Shine: Nutmeg and cinnamon bring a subtle warmth that elevates the classic pound cake flavor profile. These spices are the unsung heroes that make this recipe feel special.

Cream Cheese Glaze: The velvety eggnog glaze, enriched with cream cheese, ties everything together. It’s not too sweet, not too heavy—just the perfect finishing touch.

2. Ingredients

Let’s talk ingredients—the heart and soul of this mile high pound cake . Each one plays a key role, and I’ll walk you through why they matter and how to make the most of them. Trust me, understanding your ingredients is half the battle when it comes to baking success!

For the Cake:

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups cake flour: This is non-negotiable for that light, airy texture we’re aiming for. If you don’t have cake flour, you can make a substitute by combining all-purpose flour with cornstarch (I’ll share the trick in the FAQs!).
• 3 sticks butter (room temperature): Softened butter creams beautifully, so take it out of the fridge ahead of time. Cold butter? No problem—just cube it and give it a quick zap in the microwave at 5-second intervals.
• 3 cups sugar: The backbone of sweetness, but also essential for creating that fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
• 5 eggs (room temperature): Eggs bind everything together, and room temperature eggs incorporate more smoothly. Pop them in warm water for 5 minutes if you forget to take them out earlier.
• 1 cup homemade eggnog substitute (see notes for details), room temperature : This adds moisture and flavor.
• ½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt: These work behind the scenes to give your cake lift and balance the sweetness.
• ½ tsp nutmeg + ¼ tsp cinnamon: Warm spices that bring holiday vibes, even if it’s not December.
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is worth the splurge here—it adds depth and enhances all the other flavors.

For the Eggnog Glaze:

This glaze is where the magic happens:

• 1 lb powdered sugar: Sift it first to avoid lumps and ensure a silky-smooth finish.
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds richness and a hint of tang to balance the sweetness.
• ¼ cup eggnog: Ties the glaze back to the cake’s flavor profile.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract + ½ tsp nutmeg: A final touch of warmth and aroma.

Pro Tip: Measure your ingredients accurately! Baking is a science, and even small variations can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale if you have one—it’s a game-changer for consistency.

With these ingredients ready to go, you’re well on your way to creating a show-stopping mile high pound cake. Up next, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process—don’t worry, I’ve got your back every step of the way!

3. How to Make This Mile High Pound Cake Recipe Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring this mile high pound cake to life! I’ll walk you through each step as if we’re baking side by side. Don’t worry—I’ve included plenty of tips to help you nail it on your first try.

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming the butter and sugar together in a large bowl. This is where the magic begins! Beat them on medium-high speed for 7–10 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and almost pale yellow. Why so long? This process incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake that dreamy rise and tender texture.

Pro Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through to make sure everything is evenly mixed. No one likes dense pockets of unmixed butter!

Step 2: Add Eggs One at a Time

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This gradual approach helps the batter emulsify properly, ensuring a smooth consistency. Once all the eggs are in, stir in the vanilla extract—it’s the flavor glue that ties everything together.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, so every bite has just the right balance of flavor and lift.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Here’s where things get exciting! Gradually alternate adding the flour mixture and homemade eggnog substitute to the butter mixture. Start and end with the flour—this technique prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. Mix on low speed just until combined after each addition.

Pro Tip: Overmixing is the enemy of a light pound cake. Stop as soon as there are no streaks of flour left. A few tiny lumps are okay—they’ll bake out beautifully.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into a greased and floured pan (or use parchment paper for easy removal). Pop it into a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Pro Tip: If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your masterpiece!

Step 6: Cool Before Glazing

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling slightly ensures the cake sets and makes glazing easier without melting the glaze.

Now that your cake is baked to perfection, it’s time to move on to the pièce de résistance—the creamy, dreamy eggnog glaze. Trust me, this next step is going to take your cake from great to absolutely unforgettable!

Ready to finish strong? Let’s dive into the glazing process next.

4. Pro Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of this mile high pound cake, let’s talk about how to take it to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these tips and variations will help you customize the recipe to suit your taste—and troubleshoot any hiccups along the way.

Pro Tips for Success

• Room Temperature is Key: Remember how I mentioned room temperature ingredients earlier? It’s not just a suggestion—it’s a game-changer. Cold eggs or butter can sabotage your batter’s texture, so plan ahead.
• Don’t Skip the Toothpick Test: Every oven is different, so rely on the toothpick test rather than the clock. A clean toothpick means your cake is perfectly baked.
• Prevent Sticking: Grease your pan generously, and consider lining the bottom with parchment paper. There’s nothing worse than a stuck cake ruining all your hard work!
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: If the cake is too warm, the glaze will melt and slide right off. Patience pays off here—let it cool slightly before drizzling.

Fun Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some creative twists to make this recipe your own:

• Add-Ins: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries into the batter for extra texture. White chocolate chips or candied ginger would also pair beautifully with the eggnog flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich spices.
• Glaze Alternatives: Not a fan of cream cheese? Swap it for mascarpone or omit it entirely for a simpler powdered sugar glaze. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or maple for a unique twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based eggnog and vegan butter/cream cheese to make this recipe dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dense Cake? This usually happens if the batter is overmixed or if cold ingredients are used. Stick to gentle mixing and room temperature ingredients next time.
• Glaze Too Thick? No worries—just whisk in a teaspoon of eggnog at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

With these tips and tricks up your sleeve, you’re ready to tackle this mile-high pound cake pan​ with confidence.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Mile High Pound Cake

You’ve baked and glazed your mile high pound cake —now it’s time to serve it up in style! This is where you can really make the dessert your own, turning it into a show-stopping centerpiece or a cozy treat for yourself. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Simple and Classic

Sometimes, less is more. Serve slices of the mile high pound cake slightly warm with the eggnog glaze drizzled generously on top. A light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon adds a festive finishing touch. It’s elegant, comforting, and perfect as-is.

Pair with Beverages

This holiday dessert is a match made in heaven for warm drinks:

• Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• For something extra special, serve it alongside mulled cider or hot cocoa during the holidays.

Add a Scoop of Something Cold

Take things up a notch by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even mascarpone cheese on the side. The contrast between the warm mile high cream cheese pound cake and cold topping is pure magic. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries also make a refreshing addition.

Make It a Dessert Bar

Hosting a gathering? Set up a mini dessert station with toppings like crushed nuts, caramel drizzle, or sprinkles. Let your guests customize their slices—it’s interactive and fun! This is a great way to showcase your homemade dessert while letting everyone create their perfect bite.

Gift It with Love

This mile high pound cake recipe makes a thoughtful homemade gift. Wrap individual slices in parchment paper and tie them with ribbon, or present the whole cake on a decorative platter. Add a handwritten note for an extra personal touch.

Pro Tip: If you’re serving the cake at a party, cut it into smaller portions. Pound cake is rich, so a little goes a long way—and everyone will have room for seconds!

With these serving ideas, your mile high pound cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

Other Pound Cakes to Try :

• Sundrop Pound Cake Recipe
• Lemon Pound Cake Recipe
• Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe

6. FAQs

Let’s wrap things up by answering some of the most common questions about this mile high pound cake. Whether you’re troubleshooting or just curious, I’ve got you covered. Think of this as your go-to guide for all things mile-high and delicious!

How To Make A Mile High Pound Cake

Michael

This mile high pound cake is a show-stopping dessert infused with cozy spices and creamy eggnog, topped with a velvety cream cheese glaze. Perfect for holidays or anytime indulgence!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Cake:

• 3 cups cake flour
• 3 cups sugar
• 3 sticks butter room temperature
• 5 eggs room temperature
• 1 cup eggnog
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the Eggnog Glaze:

• 1 lb about 450g powdered sugar
• 4 oz about 115g cream cheese softened
• ¼ cup eggnog
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp nutmeg

Instructions

 

• Cream Butter and Sugar : In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until smooth and fluffy (about 7–10 minutes).
• Add Eggs : Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Mix Dry Ingredients : In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients : Gradually add the flour mixture and eggnog to the butter mixture, alternating between them. Start and end with the flour. Mix just until combined.
• Bake : Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool : Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it sit until slightly warm.
• Make the Glaze : Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and nutmeg, then mix well. Stir in vanilla extract and eggnog until smooth. Adjust consistency with more eggnog if needed.

Notes

Serve : Pour the eggnog glaze over the slightly warm cake, sprinkle with nutmeg, and let it sit for 30 minutes before serving.

Keyword eggnog glaze, holiday dessert, homemade dessert, Mile high pound cake, Mile high pound cake pan

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