Discover the Secret to the Perfect Five Flavor Pound Cake with a Rich, Decadent Glaze

Photo byAngie Bright

The Five Flavor Pound Cake is a dessert that brings a burst of delicious flavors with every bite. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and rich, showcasing a unique blend of vanilla, lemon, rum, almond, and coconut extracts. When topped with a sugary glaze infused with the same five flavors, this cake becomes an unforgettable treat. If you’re craving something that’s buttery, soft, and packed with flavor, this pound cake is the ultimate choice.

A Five Flavor Pound Cake is not just about having five different extracts. It's about how they come together in harmony, creating a symphony of tastes that complement each other. The delicate vanilla balances the brightness of lemon, while the smooth almond and tropical coconut add depth. The rum extract provides a subtle hint of warmth, making each bite satisfying.

This cake is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a more formal dinner party. Its dense yet tender crumb, paired with the sweet, fragrant glaze, makes it a showstopper. Whether served as a standalone dessert or paired with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this pound cake is a versatile dessert that will impress.

Recipe: Five Flavor Pound Cake with Rich Glaze

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 teaspoon rum extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract

For the glaze:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1/2 teaspoon rum extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a bundt pan by greasing it generously and dusting with flour to ensure easy removal later.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures a smooth and light batter for the cake.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and sugar. Beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the tender texture in the pound cake.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition to fully incorporate the eggs.
5. Pour in all five extracts—vanilla, lemon, rum, almond, and coconut. Stir them into the batter until everything is evenly combined.
6. Slowly add the flour mixture to the batter, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture, and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth out the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and slightly springy to the touch.
9. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water, then add the vanilla, lemon, rum, almond, and coconut extracts. Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves.
10. When the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, while it’s still warm, pour the prepared glaze over the cake, ensuring it seeps into every crevice.
11. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before turning it out onto a serving plate. The glaze should have soaked into the cake, adding even more flavor and moisture.

This Five Flavor Pound Cake is the kind of dessert that leaves everyone asking for seconds. The combination of five extracts makes for a uniquely flavorful experience, while the rich glaze elevates the cake with its sweetness. Perfect for holiday tables or any special event, it’s a treat that’s both comforting and impressive. Serve it with tea, coffee, or even as a breakfast indulgence, and enjoy the luscious, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Sources:

1. Southern Living Five Flavor Pound Cake Recipe
2. Taste of Home Pound Cake Inspiration
3. Allrecipes - Pound Cake Recipes