Pound Cake

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar on high speed for about 5 minutes until very pale and fluffy.

3. 3

   Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla.

4. 4

   Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. 5

   Gradually stir the flour mixture into the batter until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. 6

   Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

7. 7

   Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. 8

   Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.