Growing up, my grandma had a way of turning everyday ingredients into the most mouthwatering treats. One of my all-time favorites was her famous “Grilled Cheese Pound Cake.” I can still remember the aroma of buttery pound cake and melted cheddar wafting through the kitchen. It was the perfect blend of savory and sweet, and I’d beg her to make it for every family gathering.

To this day, that Grilled Cheese Pound Cake recipe holds a special place in my heart. There’s just something about the unexpected combination of flavors that makes it so irresistible. The rich, buttery crumb of the pound cake perfectly complements the sharp, gooey cheddar cheese. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!

Why This Grilled Cheese Pound Cake Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Grilled Cheese Pound Cake

What makes this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake so incredible? It all comes down to the careful balance of ingredients and techniques. The key is to start with a classic pound cake base – one that’s moist, dense, and bursting with buttery goodness. Then, we fold in generous amounts of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, creating pockets of melty, gooey deliciousness throughout the cake.

The real magic happens when you grill the pound cake slices just like you would a grilled cheese sandwich. This gives the exterior a crisp, golden-brown crust, while the interior stays soft and indulgent. It’s the perfect marriage of textures, and it’s sure to leave your guests wondering, “How did they do that?”

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The foundation of any good pound cake, the butter provides rich, creamy flavor and a tender crumb.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar: The sugar balances the saltiness of the cheese and helps create that classic pound cake texture.
  • 4 large eggs: The eggs give the cake structure and help it rise to perfection.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour: The flour provides the structure for the cake, ensuring it bakes up tall and proud.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder: A small amount of baking powder adds just the right amount of lift.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors.
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star of the show! The sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful savory element that complements the sweet pound cake.
  • 8 slices bread: Used to grill the pound cake slices, creating that irresistible crispy exterior.

Step-by-Step Grilled Cheese Pound Cake Instructions

Preparing Your Grilled Cheese Pound Cake

With a total time of 75 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep and 60 minutes of cook time, this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect treat to whip up for a crowd. You’ll need a few key tools, like a stand mixer, a loaf pan, and a griddle or skillet for grilling.

1- First, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2- Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
3- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
4- Bake the pound cake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5- Once the pound cake is cooled, use a serrated knife to slice it into 8 even slices.
6- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Butter both sides of the pound cake slices and grill them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Make sure your butter is truly softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. This will ensure a light, fluffy texture.
  • Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients – just mix until they’re combined. Overmixing can result in a tough, dense cake.
  • Shred the cheddar cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded. The freshly shredded cheese will melt better throughout the cake.
  • Be patient when grilling the pound cake slices. Take your time to get that perfect golden-brown crust without burning the exterior.
  • Let the grilled pound cake slices cool slightly before serving. This will allow the cheese to set and the cake to firm up.

Serving and Storing Your Grilled Cheese Pound Cake

Perfect Pairings for Grilled Cheese Pound Cake

This Grilled Cheese Pound Cake serves 10 people, making it the perfect dessert to share with family and friends. For a truly indulgent experience, I recommend pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The cool, creamy ice cream or sweet caramel provides a lovely contrast to the savory cheese.

If you’re looking for a more casual serving option, the Grilled Cheese Pound Cake also pairs beautifully with a steaming mug of coffee or hot tea. The rich, buttery flavors of the cake are the perfect accompaniment to a cozy beverage.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can also freeze the ungrilled pound cake slices. Simply wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. The frozen slices will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the slices at room temperature, then grill them as directed.

To reheat grilled Grilled Cheese Pound Cake slices, simply place them on a griddle or in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, or until warmed through and crispy.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Grilled Cheese Pound Cake

Creative Grilled Cheese Pound Cake Variations

While the classic Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to get creative with this recipe. For a seasonal twist, try adding chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the batter. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, like smoked gouda or Parmesan, for a unique flavor profile.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even incorporate savory ingredients like cooked bacon or caramelized onions into the cake. The possibilities are endless! Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking times as needed.

Making Grilled Cheese Pound Cake Diet-Friendly

For those with dietary restrictions, there are a few simple swaps you can make to enjoy a healthier version of Grilled Cheese Pound Cake. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can replace the granulated sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit. And for a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, like coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a dairy-free cheese.

No matter your dietary needs, this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake can be easily adapted to suit your lifestyle. With a little creativity, you can enjoy all the cheesy, buttery goodness without sacrificing your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of sharp cheddar?
A: Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as smoked gouda, Parmesan, or even a blend of cheeses. Just be sure to use the same amount (8 ounces) of whatever cheese you choose.

Q: How do I know when the pound cake is fully baked?
A: The pound cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This should take about 60 minutes of baking at 350°F. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end, as oven temperatures can vary. You’re looking for a golden-brown exterior and a tender, moist interior.

Q: Can I make the Grilled Cheese Pound Cake in advance?
A: Yes, you can! The ungrilled pound cake can be baked and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply slice and grill the cake as directed. You can also freeze the ungrilled slices for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before grilling.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Grilled Cheese Pound Cake recipe yields 10 servings. The cake is quite rich and filling, so a single slice is usually enough to satisfy.

Q: What should I do if the pound cake is too dry or dense?
A: If your Grilled Cheese Pound Cake turns out too dry or dense, there are a few troubleshooting tips. First, make sure you’re not overbeating the batter, as this can lead to a tough, dense texture. Additionally, double-check that you’re using the correct measurements for the ingredients, especially the flour and butter. If the cake is still dry, try brushing the grilled slices with a little melted butter or cream before serving.

Conclusion

This Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is truly a one-of-a-kind dessert that’s sure to delight your taste buds. The unexpected combination of savory and sweet creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate Grilled Cheese Pound Cake. I can’t wait to hear how much you and your loved ones enjoy this delightful creation. Be sure to share your photos and thoughts in the comments below!