pound cake

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (2 cups) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 8 large eggs

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup milk (optional for moisture, you can use buttermilk for a tangy twist)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or loaf pan.

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).

3. Add the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. Add vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the flour and salt together.

6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk if using, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.