Peppermint Pound Cake

• unsalted butter↗3⁄4 lb

  softened

• cream cheese↗1 package

  8 ounce, softened

• granulated sugar↗3 cups
• eggs↗6

  separated

• cake flour↗3 cups

  sifted

• vanilla extract↗1 teaspoon
• crushed peppermint candy3⁄4 cup

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 300°F.

2. 2

   Grease and flour (or use baking spray) a bundt or tube pan.

3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl with electric mixer, cream the butter with the cream cheese until soft and fluffy.

4. 4

   Add the sugar and cream until light.

5. 5

   Add the egg yolks, one at a time, and beat well after each addition.

6. 6

   Add the flour in stages, blending well after each addition (do not overbeat).

7. 7

   Fold in the vanilla and peppermint.

8. 8

   In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff, but not dry.

9. 9

   Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter, taking care not to deflate the mixture.

10. 10

    Bake the cake for 1 hour, 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.