Nothing says cozy winter vibes quite like the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the air. If you’re looking to add a touch of festive charm to your home, our Peppermint Pound Cake recipe is just the thing you need. This delightful cake combines the classic richness of pound cake with the refreshing flavor of peppermint, perfect for enjoying by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa. Let’s dive into the recipe:
Peppermint Pound Cake
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring the entire interior is well coated to prevent sticking.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust the cooled Peppermint Pound Cake with powdered sugar for a snowy finish before slicing and serving.
This Peppermint Pound Cake is a delightful treat to enjoy during the holiday season or anytime you’re craving a cozy, minty dessert. The subtle hint of peppermint adds a refreshing twist to the classic pound cake, making it a perfect companion to a warm beverage on a chilly day. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding extra crushed peppermint candies on top or drizzling with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Prepare a batch of this Peppermint Pound Cake to share with loved ones or simply indulge in a slice or two whenever you need a pick-me-up. The combination of rich buttery cake and cooling peppermint flavor is sure to please your taste buds and bring a smile to your face. Enjoy the simple pleasures of the season with this delightful homemade treat.
