**Southern Pound Cake***Ingredients:** 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened* 3 cups granulated sugar* 5 large eggs* 3 cups all-purpose flour* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder* 1/2 teaspoon salt* 1 cup whole milk* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract* 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)*Instructions*:1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube pan.2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.6. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using.7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.8. Bake for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.10. Turn the cake out onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing.11. Serve plain or with fresh berries and whipped cream.Prep Time: 20 minutesCook Time: 1 hour 20 minutesTotal Time: 1 hour 40 minutesServings: 12–16 slices
