Ritz Carlton Lemon Pound Cake

In the glamorous era of the 1920s, the Ritz Carlton symbolized elegance, luxury, and unmatched culinary sophistication. Among its many celebrated desserts, the Ritz Carlton Lemon Pound Cake stood out, becoming an enduring favorite for its irresistible combination of buttery richness and vibrant lemon zest.

Today, this classic pound cake not only evokes nostalgia but offers home bakers a chance to recreate a sophisticated treat that beautifully balances tradition and contemporary culinary flair.

Below, I present a comprehensive and enhanced recipe for this iconic dessert, complete with detailed instructions, expert baking tips, serving recommendations, and storage guidelines—ensuring your cake not only tastes divine but looks spectacular too.

Ingredients

To achieve an authentic yet elevated Ritz Carlton Lemon Pound Cake, you’ll need these carefully selected ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

• 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons lemon zest, finely grated

• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor complexity)

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear and detailed steps for baking a flawless Ritz Carlton Lemon Pound Cake:

Step 1: Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

• Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-inch bundt cake pan, or use a non-stick baking spray with flour for perfect release.

Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar

• In a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), cream the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until fluffy and pale (about 5-7 minutes). Proper creaming is crucial to achieving a light texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavoring

• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.

• Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest, blending until fragrant and smooth.

Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until uniformly combined.

Step 5: Batter Formation

• Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour. Mix at low speed to avoid over-mixing. Add fresh lemon juice last, gently folding it in until just combined.

Step 6: Baking the Cake

• Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly.

• Bake at 325°F for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.

• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer carefully onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Making the Lemon Glaze

• In a bowl, whisk sifted powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and lump-free. Adjust consistency by adding additional juice or powdered sugar if needed.

Step 8: Finishing Touch

• Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle generously with the lemon glaze.

• Garnish with lemon zest for a striking finish.

Tips for Perfect Results

Achieving bakery-quality results at home involves more than just following a recipe. Here are expert tips that make a noticeable difference:

• Room Temperature Ingredients:
  Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs, butter, and buttermilk, are at room temperature for smoother blending and optimal texture.

• Accurate Measuring:
  Always use proper measuring techniques (spoon-and-level method for flour) to maintain consistency and prevent a dense or dry cake.

• Lemon Quality:
  Select fresh, brightly colored lemons for zesting. Organic lemons are preferred to avoid wax or chemical treatments that can affect taste.

• Don’t Overmix:
  Overmixing can result in a dense, tougher cake. Mix only until ingredients are just combined after flour addition.

• Oven Accuracy:
  Using an oven thermometer guarantees precise baking temperatures, ensuring perfect rise and texture.

Serving Suggestions

The Ritz Carlton Lemon Pound Cake deserves elegant presentation to match its luxurious flavor. Here are thoughtful serving ideas:

• Sophisticated Slicing:
  Slice your cake diagonally into even, attractive portions for refined aesthetics.

• Plate Elegance:
  Use vintage-inspired porcelain plates or glass dessert dishes to evoke classic 1920s glamour.

• Garnishing Options:
  Elevate presentation with:

  • Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries)

  • A dollop of lightly whipped cream or crème fraîche

  • Fresh mint leaves for an aromatic garnish

• Perfect Pairings:
  Serve alongside beverages like Earl Grey tea, espresso, or sparkling lemonade to complement the cake’s vibrant lemon notes.

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage maintains the cake’s freshness and texture long after baking:

• Room Temperature (short-term):
  Store cake covered or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

• Refrigeration (up to 1 week):
  Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and odor absorption.

• Freezing (long-term):
  Wrap securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

This refined yet accessible recipe for the Ritz Carlton Lemon Pound Cake not only preserves the charm and luxurious essence of its 1920s heritage but also enhances its appeal for contemporary palates and modern baking standards.

The combination of meticulous steps, comprehensive tips, and practical serving ideas makes this cake an irresistible choice for special occasions, afternoon tea, or simply a delightful indulgence.

Enjoy baking this timeless classic, and savor every bite of nostalgic elegance updated for today’s discerning tastes.