Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

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Introduction

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a soft, moist, and decadent dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the vibrant, sweet flavor of fresh strawberries. This pound cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a special family gathering, an afternoon tea, or a simple indulgence after a long day. The addition of cream cheese creates a velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the bursts of strawberry flavor in every bite. With its delicate crumb and refreshing taste, this cake is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for those who love a rich yet not overly sweet dessert.

Perfect for:

• Afternoon tea or coffee
• Birthday parties and celebrations
• Picnics or potlucks
• Dessert for any time of year
• Strawberry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Here’s why Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is sure to be your next favorite dessert:

• Velvety Smooth Texture: The cream cheese in the batter results in an ultra-moist, smooth texture that makes this pound cake melt in your mouth.
• Balanced Sweetness: The fresh strawberries provide a sweet and slightly tangy contrast to the rich cream cheese base, making each bite burst with flavor.
• Perfectly Simple: With basic ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, this recipe is simple but delivers incredible results.
• Customizable: While the classic version is irresistible on its own, you can add a variety of mix-ins or toppings to tailor it to your tastes—like strawberry glaze, chocolate chips, or whipped cream.
• Ideal for Sharing: This cake looks gorgeous on any dessert table and is the perfect size for sharing with family and friends, making it a great choice for gatherings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 75 minutes
• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious and indulgent Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for garnish if desired)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup whole milk (or non-dairy milk alternative)
• A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is the star ingredient that gives the cake its moist, dense, and slightly tangy texture, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.
• Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring a bright, fruity flavor and a burst of color to the cake. Make sure to chop them into small pieces to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
• Butter: The butter contributes to the cake’s richness, making every bite soft and tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a layer of aromatic warmth, bringing together the creaminess of the cake and the sweetness of the strawberries.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or tube pan, or you can line the pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake comes out smoothly.
2. Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar together until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Start by adding a little bit of flour mixture, then sour cream and milk, continuing to alternate until everything is combined. Be sure to mix until just incorporated to avoid overmixing.

Add Strawberries to the Batter:

6. Incorporate the Strawberries: Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries with a spatula until evenly distributed. The strawberries will add natural sweetness and a bit of moisture to the batter.

Bake the Pound Cake:

7. Transfer the Batter to the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to smooth the top.
8. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 70-75 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Garnish and Serve:

10. Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: If desired, garnish the cooled cake with additional chopped strawberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar. You can also add a drizzle of strawberry glaze for extra sweetness.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some ideas:

• With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Serve a slice of the cake with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a more indulgent dessert experience.
• With Strawberry Glaze: Drizzle a homemade strawberry glaze over the top of the cake for an extra layer of sweetness and to enhance the strawberry flavor.
• For Afternoon Tea: This cake pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee and makes a beautiful addition to an afternoon tea spread.
• For Parties and Gatherings: Slice the cake into smaller portions and serve it alongside other desserts such as cookies or brownies at your next gathering or party.

Additional Tips for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Here are a few tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix gently and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can result in a dense or tough cake.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: While frozen strawberries can be used, fresh strawberries will give the cake the best flavor and texture. If using frozen strawberries, be sure to thaw and drain them before folding them into the batter.
• Check for Doneness: Oven times can vary, so start checking for doneness around 65 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
• Cool Completely Before Serving: Make sure the cake is completely cooled before slicing to prevent it from being too soft and difficult to cut.

Recipe Variations of Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Here are 10 variations you can try to customize your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake:

• Chocolate Strawberry Pound Cake: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist that complements the strawberries.
• Lemon Strawberry Pound Cake: Add lemon zest and a bit of lemon juice to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
• Mixed Berry Pound Cake: Replace the strawberries with a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a delicious berry medley.
• Strawberry Almond Pound Cake: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a nutty aroma that pairs well with the strawberries.
• Caramel Strawberry Pound Cake: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the cake before serving for a rich, buttery flavor.
• Strawberry Banana Pound Cake: Add mashed banana to the batter for a more fruity and moist variation.
• Strawberry Coconut Pound Cake: Mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that enhances the cake’s sweetness.
• Strawberry Rhubarb Pound Cake: If you love a tangy twist, try adding diced rhubarb along with the strawberries for a unique flavor combination.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake: Add a layer of cheesecake filling between the cake batter for a creamier, more decadent dessert.
• Strawberry Chia Pound Cake: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds for a subtle crunch and extra nutritional value.

Freezing and Storage for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

• Freezing: You can freeze this pound cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. To serve, thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate the cake if you prefer it chilled.

Special Equipment for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Here are special equipment items that can be useful when making this cake:

• Bundt or Tube Pan: A bundt or tube pan is perfect for making pound cakes, as it helps the batter bake evenly and results in a beautifully shaped cake.
• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer makes creaming the butter, cream cheese, and sugar much easier and quicker, especially when making larger batches.
• Spatula: A silicone spatula is great for folding in the strawberries and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right proportions of ingredients for the perfect texture.
• Wire Rack: A wire rack allows the cake to cool evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy.

FAQ Section about Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
   Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy butter and milk to make the cake dairy-free.
3. Can I add other fruits to this cake?
   Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different flavor.
4. How do I know when the cake is done?
   The cake is done when it is golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the consistency of the batter before baking.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines the sweet, fruity taste of fresh strawberries with the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is a perfect choice. With its moist crumb, tangy cream cheese base, and refreshing strawberry flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a treat everyone will love! Enjoy!