Some desserts just feel like home, and this Caramel Glazed Pound Cake is one of them. Dense yet tender, buttery without being heavy, and topped with a rich caramel frosting that drapes over every curve of the Bundt, it’s the kind of cake you’ll want to make for both special celebrations and quiet Sunday afternoons.

With a silky, homemade caramel glaze that sets into a glossy finish, each bite delivers just the right balance of sweetness and nostalgia. Serve it with coffee after dinner, or let it shine as the centerpiece of your holiday dessert table.

 

 

Ingredients

For the Pound Cake

• Unsalted butter (room temperature) – 1 cup (2 sticks)
• Granulated sugar – 3 cups
• Large eggs (room temperature) – 6
• Full-fat sour cream – 1 cup
• All-purpose flour (sifted) – 3 cups
• Baking soda – ½ teaspoon
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon
• Vanilla extract – 1 tablespoon

 

For the Caramel Glaze

• Unsalted butter – ½ cup
• Brown sugar (packed) – 1 cup
• Whole milk or heavy cream – ¼ cup
• Salt – pinch
• Powdered sugar (sifted) – 1½ cups
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

 

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Pound Cake

• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube pan.
• In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 4–5 minutes).
• Beat in eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
• Bake for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

 

2. Make the Caramel Glaze

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Add milk and a pinch of salt; bring to a gentle boil.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly (3–5 minutes).
• Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
• Pour or drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled cake — it will thicken as it sets into a rich, glossy layer.

 

 

Tips & Variations

• Add some crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze while it’s still warm.
• Plan ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the caramel seeps into the crumb.
• Extra indulgence: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake brings together the richness of a traditional pound cake with the irresistible sweetness of caramel, creating a dessert that feels both timeless and indulgent. Whether you serve it for a holiday, a family gathering, or just because, it’s sure to draw smiles and second helpings.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this pound cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, this cake often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

2. Can I freeze pound cake with caramel glaze?
Yes, but for the best texture, freeze the cake without the glaze. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the glaze just before serving.

3. How do I keep my caramel glaze smooth?
Be sure to whisk the glaze while it’s warm and sift the powdered sugar before adding it. If it thickens too quickly, stir in a teaspoon of warm milk to loosen it.

4. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

5. What’s the best way to serve this cake?
It’s delicious on its own, but pairing it with fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream makes it even more indulgent.

 

 

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Glazed Pound Cake is the definition of old-fashioned comfort baking — rich, buttery, and topped with a velvety caramel glaze that makes every slice feel special. Whether it’s gracing your holiday table, serving as a thoughtful gift for a friend, or simply bringing a little sweetness to your weekend, this cake delivers every time.

One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s a dessert people remember long after the last crumb is gone. So, preheat your oven, pull out your Bundt pan, and treat yourself to a classic worth keeping in your recipe collection.