Aunt Faye’s Pound Cake

Every family has that one dessert recipe that brings everyone together. For us, it’s Aunt Faye’s Pound Cake—a soft, tender, and flavor-packed cake that defies the heaviness you might expect from a traditional pound cake. Made with Duncan Hines butter cake mix, sour cream, and a trio of extracts, this recipe delivers nostalgic Southern sweetness with a modern twist.

Whether you’re serving it at a Sunday dinner, a potluck, or simply enjoying a slice with coffee, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s buttery without being dense, light yet indulgent, and glazed with a luscious lemon icing that seeps into every golden bite.

Why You’ll Love Aunt Faye’s Pound Cake

• Easy to Make: Uses cake mix as a base for perfect texture every time.
• Incredibly Moist: Thanks to sour cream and butter.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From holidays to everyday coffee breaks.
• Full of Flavor: Almond, vanilla, and butter flavorings combine for a rich taste.
• Glaze Perfection: The lemon glaze soaks into the warm cake for a sweet-tart finish.

Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

For the Cake:

• 1 box Duncan Hines butter recipe cake mix
• 1 cup cake flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• 1 stick butter (room temperature)
• 5 large eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ cup oil
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon butter flavoring
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spray a tube or Bundt pan with Baker’s Joy or grease and flour well to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine all cake ingredients. Mix just until smooth—do not overmix, as it can make the cake dense. The batter should be rich and creamy.

Step 3: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, checking with a toothpick or fork near the center. When it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Step 4: Cool and Invert

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Then invert it onto a serving platter. This short rest helps the cake set while still warm enough to absorb the glaze.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and slightly thick—like nectar. It should drizzle but not run off completely.

Step 6: Glaze the Cake

Slowly pour the glaze over the warm cake in stages, using the back of a spoon to spread it around. Let it soak in and repeat until it’s all used.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature. This cake is delicious either way and keeps wonderfully moist for days.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Coffee or Tea: Makes the perfect afternoon treat.
• Top with Berries: Fresh strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing touch.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For a more indulgent dessert.
• Holiday Centerpiece: Dress it up with sugared cranberries or mint sprigs.

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Make Ahead: Bake and glaze the cake up to 2 days in advance.
• Store: Keep covered at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp and enjoy.

Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, sour cream, and butter are room temp for smooth mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Just blend until combined for a tender texture.
• Cake Mix Matters: Duncan Hines Butter Recipe Cake Mix gives the best base.
• Glaze Timing: Pour the glaze while the cake is still warm so it soaks in beautifully.

Variations to Try

• Orange Glaze: Swap lemon juice for orange juice and add a bit of zest.
• Almond Cake: Add more almond extract and a touch of chopped almonds in the batter.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Replace glaze with a simple chocolate ganache.
• Bundt Cake Topping: Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant look.

Final Thoughts

Aunt Faye’s Pound Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition. Every slice carries the warmth of Southern hospitality, the richness of family history, and the sweetness of shared memories. Whether you’re baking it for loved ones or treating yourself to a nostalgic bite, this recipe will quickly become one of your most treasured.

So pull out your Bundt pan, mix up a batch, and share it like Aunt Faye would—generously and often.