Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (optional, for extra vanilla flavor)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Prepare Your Pans

.  Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
.  Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or two 9×5-inch loaf pans. Alternatively, you can line the pans with parchment .  .  paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

.  In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

.  In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
.  Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the butter and sugar are well combined.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

.  Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter, giving the cake its light texture.
.  Add the vanilla extract (and vanilla bean paste, if using) and mix to combine …