Growing up, my grandma was known for her crazy culinary creations. She loved taking classic dishes and putting her own spin on them. One of my favorite memories is the time she made a Grilled Cheese Pound Cake. I remember the look on my face when she told me the plan – I thought she was joking! But let me tell you, that Grilled Cheese Pound Cake turned out to be an absolute showstopper.
The combination of the buttery, crispy grilled bread, gooey melted cheddar, and rich pound cake batter was pure genius. Each bite was a delightful contrast of savory and sweet, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that had me going back for seconds… and thirds. It quickly became the talk of the family, and Grandma would make it for every special occasion.
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 recipe so special is the way it combines two beloved comfort foods into one decadent dessert. By sandwiching a creamy, cheesy filling between slices of pound cake, you get an unexpected twist that’s sure to wow your taste buds. The key is striking the perfect balance between the savory grilled cheese and the sweet, buttery pound cake.
The secret is in the technique. First, you’ll create a quick pound cake batter using a boxed mix and a few simple ingredients. Then, you’ll assemble the “grilled cheese” by layering slices of white bread with cheddar cheese in between. These sandwich layers get grilled to golden-brown perfection before being nestled into the pound cake batter. As it bakes, the cheese melts and oozes throughout the cake, creating pockets of gooey, cheesy goodness.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients:
- 8 slices of white bread – This classic sandwich bread provides the perfect canvas for the grilled cheese center.
- 8 ounces of cheddar cheese, sliced – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and provides that signature grilled cheese flavor.
- 4 eggs – These help bind the pound cake batter and give it a rich, tender crumb.
- 1 cup of granulated sugar – For sweetness to balance out the savory cheese.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted – Gives the pound cake its signature buttery taste and moist texture.
- 1 box of pound cake mix (plus the required ingredients on the box) – Takes the guesswork out of the cake batter and ensures perfect results.
Step-by-Step Grilled Cheese Pound Cake Instructions
Preparing Your Grilled Cheese Pound Cake
With a total time of 65 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 50 minutes of cook time), this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake comes together quickly. You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish, a skillet or griddle for grilling the sandwich layers, and your trusty oven.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease the baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
2- In a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat, cook the bread slices with the cheddar cheese in between, like you would a grilled cheese sandwich. Grill each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted. Set the grilled sandwich layers aside.
3- In a large bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
4- Slowly pour in the 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, whisking constantly to incorporate it into the egg mixture. The batter should be smooth and creamy.
5- Add the pound cake mix to the batter and fold it in gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6- Pour half of the pound cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the grilled cheese sandwich layers on top, then top with the remaining pound cake batter. Spread it evenly to cover the grilled cheese.
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few pro tips to ensure your Grilled Cheese Pound Cake turns out perfectly every time:
- For the grilled cheese, use a hearty white bread like sourdough or brioche for maximum crispiness.
- Make sure to grill the sandwich layers until they’re golden brown on both sides – this will prevent the bread from getting soggy once baked into the cake.
- When adding the pound cake batter, be gentle to avoid deflating the airy texture.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the cake – this will give you clean, neat slices.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to allow the cheese to set.
Serving and Storing Your Grilled Cheese Pound Cake
Perfect Pairings for Grilled Cheese Pound Cake
This Grilled Cheese Pound Cake serves 12 generously, making it perfect for a crowd. For the ultimate comfort food experience, I love to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool, creamy toppings perfectly complement the warm, gooey cheese and rich pound cake.
As for beverages, a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk are classic pairings that really let the flavors of the cake shine. For a more indulgent treat, you could even serve it with a shot of espresso or a splash of Irish cream.
This Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, a potluck, or a cozy night in.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is that it holds up beautifully. You can make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.
To store, simply let the cake cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or gently reheat it in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
For longer storage, the Grilled Cheese Pound Cake also freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Whether you make it the day of or prep it in advance, this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is sure to be a hit whenever you serve it.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Grilled Cheese Pound Cake
Creative Grilled Cheese Pound Cake Variations
While the classic Grilled Cheese Pound Cake is hard to beat, there are so many delicious ways to put your own spin on this unique dessert:
- Try using different cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, or even a blend for extra flavor.
- Swap the white bread for hearty sourdough or rye for a heartier grilled cheese.
- Add in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Make it seasonal by folding in fresh berries or a swirl of jam.
- Top it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to reinventing this indulgent Grilled Cheese Pound Cake!
Making Grilled Cheese Pound Cake Diet-Friendly
For those following a special diet, there are a few simple swaps that can make this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake a bit more figure-friendly:
- Use low-fat or reduced-fat cheddar cheese to cut down on the overall fat and calories.
- Opt for whole wheat or multigrain bread in place of white for added fiber and nutrients.
- Substitute the granulated sugar with a calorie-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
- Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pound cake mix and swapping the bread for gluten-free slices.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and egg substitutes in the pound cake batter.
With a few smart substitutions, you can enjoy all the decadent flavor of Grilled Cheese Pound Cake without the guilt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese besides cheddar?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other melty cheeses like Gouda, Swiss, or even a blend. Just make sure to use 8 ounces, no matter which cheese you choose.
Q: How long does it take to make this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake?
A: The total time to make this recipe is 65 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 50 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake stores really well! You can keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing.
Q: How many servings does this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake make?
A: This recipe yields 12 generous servings, making it perfect for a crowd or to enjoy throughout the week.
Q: What if my grilled cheese layers get soggy when baked into the pound cake?
A: To prevent soggy bread, be sure to grill the sandwich layers until they’re golden brown on both sides before assembling the cake. This will help the bread stay crisp even after baking.
Grilled Cheese Pound Cake
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Prepare to be delighted by the unexpected fusion of savory and sweet in this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake. This unique dessert combines the classic comfort of grilled cheese with the rich, velvety texture of pound cake, creating a one-of-a-kind treat that will have your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients
– 8 slices of white bread
– 8 ounces of cheddar cheese, sliced
– 4 eggs
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 box of pound cake mix (plus the required ingredients on the box)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Arrange the slices of bread in the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
4. Layer the slices of cheddar cheese evenly over the bread.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Slowly pour the melted butter over the bread and cheese layers.
7. Prepare the pound cake batter according to the instructions on the box.
8. Carefully pour the pound cake batter over the bread and cheese layers, ensuring an even distribution.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the Grilled Cheese Pound Cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a unique twist, try using different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Provolone. You can also experiment with adding herbs or spices to the pound cake batter for additional flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Once you try this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. The unexpected flavor combination is truly something special – the savory, melty cheese perfectly complements the rich, buttery pound cake. It’s a unique twist on two classic comfort foods that will have your guests wondering how you came up with such a brilliant idea.
I encourage you to give this Grilled Cheese Pound Cake a try. Bake it for a special occasion, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it as a decadent weekend treat. And don’t forget to let me know what you think in the comments below! I’d love to hear how your Grilled Cheese Pound Cake turns out.
