Introduction
There’s something truly delightful about a homemade pound cake, and when you infuse it with the sweetness of fresh strawberries and the creamy richness of cream cheese, you create a dessert that’s simply irresistible. This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant red berries, but it also offers a melty crumb and a burst of flavor in every slice. Perfect for warm sunny days or cozy evenings, this cake is destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for strawberries)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan, ensuring it’s ready for that beautiful cake.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, a delightful texture that sets the stage for your cake.
- Gradually add in the granulated sugar, beating until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the fragrant vanilla extract to enhance the cake’s flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is combined. Take care not to overmix, as that can affect the cake’s tenderness.
- Toss the chopped strawberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to help them stay suspended in the batter without sinking. Gently fold the strawberries into the batter, providing lovely bursts of berry flavor in every slice.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and fragrant!
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- For a sweet finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries. If you want a deeper strawberry flavor, you can swirl in a bit of strawberry puree into the batter before baking. Additionally, this cake can be stored at room temperature for a few days or wrapped tightly and frozen for later enjoyment.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights basic mixing techniques that allow for the creation of a light and fluffy pound cake. Creaming the butter and cream cheese together properly is crucial, as it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a delightful texture. Additionally, gently folding in the flour and strawberries helps maintain the cake’s structure, ensuring that you don’t overwork the batter.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
How can I tell when the cake is done? The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to ensure the cake remains moist.
What can I serve this cake with? This cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a canvas for creativity. With its moist texture and delightful strawberry bursts, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy dessert after dinner. So gather your ingredients and let the baking begin—your family and friends will thank you!