Mile High Pound Cake Recipe That Wows

There’s something undeniably impressive about a cake that rises tall, cuts clean, and melts in your mouth with every bite. That’s exactly what the Mile High Pound Cake delivers a buttery, golden masterpiece with rich flavor, a tender crumb, and sky-high height that lives up to its name.

This cake isn’t just tall it’s indulgent, nostalgic, and perfect for celebrations or simple moments at home. Inspired by classic Southern baking traditions, this recipe blends time-tested techniques with easy to follow steps, making it a favorite for both beginner and experienced bakers.

What sets this mile high pound cake apart is its remarkable structure and moist texture. It’s made with simple ingredients like real butter, fresh eggs, sugar, and flour yet the results are anything but ordinary. This cake rises higher than your average loaf thanks to a careful mixing method and a generous batter that fills a large bundt pan to the brim.

Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering, family brunch, or just because, this cake is guaranteed to wow. And if you’ve ever wondered what a million dollar pound cake tastes like, this might just be it.

Key Benefits

1. Incredible Height and Presentation

The defining feature of a mile high pound cake is its height. This cake rises tall and proud, creating a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion. Thanks to a carefully balanced ratio of eggs, flour, and butter along with proper mixing the batter bakes into a lofty, domed cake that’s hard to miss on the dessert table.

2. Rich, Buttery Flavor

Made with real butter and a dozen eggs, this cake delivers a deep, buttery taste with every bite. Unlike light sponge cakes, the mile high pound cake is dense without being heavy perfect for those who love a rich, comforting dessert.

3. Soft, Moist Texture

This recipe creates a moist pound cake that stays tender for days. The blend of fat from butter and the protein from eggs creates a smooth, velvety crumb that holds together beautifully without drying out.

4. Versatile Flavor Base

While classic vanilla is the standard, this cake adapts easily to other flavors. You can fold in lemon zest for a bright citrus twist or swap in almond extract for a nutty aroma. It even works well as a lemon pound cake recipe or with a light cream cheese glaze for extra decadence.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

From birthdays to baby showers or casual Sunday suppers, this cake fits any event. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a warm cup of coffee. Whether you serve it plain or dressed up, it never disappoints.

6. No Special Tools Needed

Despite its dramatic appearance, this is an easy mile high pound cake recipe. All you need is a sturdy bundt or tube pan, basic mixing tools, and a little patience in the oven. No favor methods or uncommon hardware required.

7. Time-Tested, Southern-Inspired

Rooted in old fashioned pound cake recipes, this version draws inspiration from traditional Southern baking. It’s the kind of cake you might find in a grandmother’s kitchen hearty, humble, and unforgettable.

 Ingredients

This mile high pound cake recipe sticks to classic, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a rich, buttery, and sky-high cake. Be sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and structure. This recipe makes a large cake and requires a 12-cup bundt pan or tube pan.

Essential Ingredients:

• 3 cups (6 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  The foundation of that classic buttery flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature for proper creaming.
  
• 3 cups granulated sugar
  Provides sweetness and structure while helping the cake rise during baking.
  
• 12 large eggs, room temperature
  This is a 12 egg cake formula, which is key to the signature stature and surface. Eggs give lavishness and offer assistance to the hitter.

• 4½ cups all-purpose flour
  Gives the cake structure without making it as well thick.
  
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
  A small amount helps boost the rise without altering the classic pound cake texture.
  
• 1 teaspoon salt
  Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
  
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
  Keeps the crumb tender and moist. Don’t substitute with low-fat versions.
  
• 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
  Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
  

Optional Add-Ins or Variations:

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  For a refreshing citrus twist perfect if you want to turn this into a lemon pound cake.
  
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
  Adds a subtle nutty note that pairs well with vanilla.
  
• ¼ cup cream cheese (softened)
  For extra richness if adapting this into a cream cheese pound cake version.
  

Pro Tip: Always use room temperature ingredients to help the batter mix evenly and trap more air, which contributes to a taller, fluffier cake.

Instructions

This mile high pound cake recipe follows a traditional creaming method, which is essential for achieving a tall, fluffy structure and smooth, moist texture. Follow each step carefully to ensure the best results.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow baking method ensures even rising and a perfect crumb.
  
• Generously grease a 12-cup bundt or tube pan with butter or baking spray.  Delicately clean with flour and tap out any overabundance. This prevents sticking and gives the cake a clean release.
  

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 cups of softened butter with 3 cups of sugar on medium-high speed using a stand mixer or hand mixer.
  
• Proceed beating for 5 to 7 minutes, until the blend is pale, soft, and light. This step is vital appropriately creamed butter traps discuss, which makes a difference the cake rise tall in the broiler.

Step 3: Include the Eggs One at a Time

• Add the 12 eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition.
• Scrape down the sides of the bowl as required to guarantee a smooth hitter. This moderate consolidation makes a difference keep up structure and anticipates curdling.

Step 4: Filter and Include the Dry Ingredients

• In a isolated bowl, filter together 4½ mugs all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon heating powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
• Gradually include the dry fixings to the damp blend, rotating with the 1 container of entirety milk.
• Begin and conclusion with the flour. Blend on moo speed fair until combined after each expansion. Dodge overmixing to keep the cake delicate.

Step 5: Add Flavorings

• Stir in 2 tablespoons of pure vanilla extract, or substitute/add lemon zest or almond extract if using variations.
  
• Mix fair until consolidated. The hitter ought to be thick and creamy.

Step 6: Pour and Smooth the Batter

• Transfer the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
  
• Tap the dish tenderly on the counter to discharge any expansive discuss bubbles.

Step 7: Bake Low and Slow

• Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  
• Start checking for doneness around the 1 hour 30 minute mark. A long toothpick or cake tester should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  

Step 8: Cool Properly

• Let the cake cool in the container for 15 to 20 minutes on a wire rack.
• Carefully rearrange it onto the rack and permit it to cool totally some time recently cutting. This makes a difference the structure set and anticipates disintegrating.

Pro Tip: Resist the urge to open the oven door early. Sudden changes in temperature can cause the cake to sink in the center.

Pro Tips and Variations

Pro Tips for the Perfect Rise and Texture

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
   Cold eggs or butter can cause the batter to curdle or mix unevenly. Let all ingredients sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before starting.
   
2. Cream Butter and Sugar Thoroughly
   Don’t rush this step. Beating them for 5 to 7 minutes incorporates air, which is essential for a tall, fluffy cake. This step directly affects how high your pound cake will rise.
   
3. Avoid Overmixing
   Once you include the flour, blend as it were until fair combined. Overmixing creates gluten, which can make the cake thick or dry instep of delicate.
   
4. Use the Right Pan Size
   A 12-cup bundt or tube pan is ideal. If your pan is smaller, the batter may overflow or the cake may not bake evenly.
   
5. Bake at a Lower Temperature
   Pound cakes benefit from baking at 300°F (150°C). This slower bake time helps the cake rise steadily without cracking or browning too quickly on the outside.
   
6. Let It Cool Before Slicing
   Cutting into the cake too soon can ruin the texture. Permit it to cool totally on a rack some time recently.

Easy Variations to Try

1. Lemon Mile High Pound Cake
   Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the batter. Top with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and juice for a bright, tangy twist.
   
2. Cream Cheese Pound Cake
   Replace ½ cup of the butter with ½ cup softened cream cheese. This adds a slight tang and makes the cake extra moist.
   
3. Million Dollar Pound Cake
   Swap the milk with evaporated milk for added richness, and add a touch of almond extract for that nostalgic Southern flair.
   
4. Vanilla-Almond Combo
   Use 1 tablespoon vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon almond extract together. This blend gives the cake a unique depth that’s subtle yet irresistible.
   
5. Add a Sweet Glaze or Dusting
   For a finishing touch, drizzle a vanilla glaze over the cooled cake or dust lightly with powdered sugar. It enhances the flavor and boosts presentation.
   

Baking Tip: If your cake tends to brown too quickly on top before it’s done in the center, tent it loosely with foil during the final 20–30 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

This mile high pound cake is incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it plain or dressed up, it never fails to impress. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

1. Classic and Simple

Serve thick slices at room temperature with a fresh cup of coffee or tea. The rich, buttery flavor stands on its own without needing anything extra.

2. With Fresh Berries and Whipped Cream

For a light and refreshing touch, top slices with a handful of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for a balanced and elegant dessert.

3. Add a Glaze or Icing

A simple glaze can elevate your presentation:

• Vanilla Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and vanilla extract.
  
• Lemon Glaze: Combine powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish.
  

Drizzle over the cooled cake and let it set before slicing.

4. Toasted with Butter

Slice and lightly toast a piece in the oven or toaster oven, then spread with a thin layer of butter. It adds a crispy edge and deepens the flavor perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat.

5. Paired with Ice Cream

Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla bean or butter pecan ice cream. The contrast between warm cake and cold ice cream is a comforting combination.

6. Brunch or Holiday Table Favorite

This cake makes a beautiful addition to any holiday spread. Serve it alongside quiche, fruit platters, or other sweet brunch items. It also works beautifully on Easter, Christmas, or Sunday dinner tables.

7. Make it a Layered Dessert

Cube leftover slices and layer them with whipped cream and berries to create a quick pound cake trifle. It’s a smart way to repurpose leftovers and impress guests with minimal effort.

Storage Tip: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it (sliced or whole) for up to 3 months just wrap tightly in plastic and foil.

Conclusion

There’s a reason the mile high pound cake has stood the test of time it’s reliable, rich, and always delivers that “wow” factor. With its impressive height, buttery crumb, and tender texture, it’s the kind of dessert that brings people together and keeps them coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re baking it for a special event or a quiet weekend treat, this recipe gives you all the tools to make a cake that looks stunning and tastes unforgettable. You don’t need complicated techniques or rare ingredients just a few kitchen basics, a good pan, and a little patience in the oven.

So if you’ve been searching for a homemade pound cake that feels both nostalgic and extraordinary, this one delivers. It’s simple enough to bake anytime, yet elegant enough to serve for any celebration.

Now it’s your turn. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let your kitchen fill with the rich scent of baking butter and sugar. Once it’s cooled and sliced, don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe.

FAQs

Why is it called mile high pound cake?

The name comes from the cake’s impressive height. Unlike traditional pound cakes, this version is made with a large volume of batter often using up to 12 eggs which allows it to rise high in the pan. When properly mixed and baked, the result is a tall, domed cake that stands out on any table, earning the name “mile high.”

How do I make my pound cake bake up taller?

To help your pound cake rise tall:

• Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air into the batter.
  
• Use room temperature fixings so they blend evenly..
  
• Avoid overmixing once the flour is added this keeps the texture light.
  
• Bake at a lower temperature (300°F) for a longer time to encourage even rising. Also, make sure you’re using a large enough pan to give the cake space to expand.
  

What is the mystery to a wet pound cake?

The key to a sodden pound cake lies in:

• Using high-fat ingredients like butter and whole milk.
  
• Avoiding overbaking, which dries out the crumb.
  
• Measuring flour correctly too much can make the cake thick.
• Letting the cake cool slowly helps lock in moisture. You can also use a glaze to add a soft layer that keeps the exterior tender.
  

What is the most tasty cake in the world?

While “most delicious” is subjective, many home bakers and dessert lovers agree that a perfectly baked mile high pound cake ranks high on the list. With its buttery flavor, dense yet soft crumb, and impressive height, it’s both nostalgic and indulgent offering the kind of satisfaction that keeps people coming back for another slice.

mile high pound cake recipe

Laura

Try this Mile High Pound Cake Recipe That Wows rich, buttery, and sky high. A classic Southern favorite that’s moist, tender, and easy to bake.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Southern American

Servings 12 people

Calories 560 kcal

Ingredients

  

• | cup | Unsalted butter | Softened 3 cups = 6 sticks
• | cup | Granulated sugar |
• 12 | large | Eggs | Room temperature
• 4.5 | cup | All-purpose flour |
• 0.5 | teaspoon | Baking powder |
• 1 | teaspoon | Salt |
• 1 | cup | Whole milk | Room temperature
• 2 | tablespoon | Vanilla extract | Pure

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt or tube pan.
• In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar for 5–7 minutes until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
• Stir in vanilla extract (plus lemon zest or almond extract if using).
• Pour batter into prepared pan. Smooth the top and tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles.
• Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes. Invert onto a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.

Notes

• Use real butter: Avoid margarine or butter blends. Unsalted butter gives you full control over the flavor and salt content.
• Room temperature is key: Cold ingredients won’t mix evenly and can affect the rise and texture. Let the eggs, milk, and butter sit out for 30–60 minutes before starting.
• Don’t skip the creaming step: Beating the butter and sugar for 5–7 minutes incorporates air into the batter — this is essential for that mile-high rise.
• Check your pan size: This recipe makes a large amount of batter. A 12-cup bundt or tube pan is ideal. If using a smaller pan, leave room for the cake to rise and consider using a second smaller pan for the excess batter.
• Slow baking matters: Baking at 300°F ensures the cake bakes evenly without burning the outside before the inside is done.
• Let it cool before slicing: The cake needs time to set up. Cutting too soon can cause it to crumble or feel gummy inside.
• Freezes well: Wrap cooled cake tightly in plastic and foil. Store for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Keyword mile high pound cake, Southern dessert, holiday cake, buttery pound cake, tall cake, 12 egg pound cake, Easter dessert, classic pound cake