Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey into the world of baking with this Strawberry Milkshake Pound Cake! Imagine biting into a luscious slice of cake that bursts with sweet strawberry flavor, making it feel like a sunny day in every bite. This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm memory waiting to happen, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Let’s dive into the easy steps of making this delectable treat that is sure to be a showstopper at your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure an easy release of your cake.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream these together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the tantalizing vanilla extract, letting its warm notes mingle with the batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring these dry ingredients are well combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the rich strawberry puree and milk. Mix gently until everything is just combined. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in the strawberry extract for an extra burst of flavor!
- Pour the beautifully colored batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring it’s ready for the oven.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, revealing the cake’s golden, cozy interior.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack where it can cool completely, filling your home with its irresistible scent.
- Once perfectly cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh strawberries for that extra touch of elegance!
Notes or Tips
For an added pop of flavor, try using a mix of fresh strawberry puree and a sprinkle of chopped strawberries to give the cake a delightful texture. If you prefer an even sweeter experience, serve with whipped cream on the side. This cake also freezes beautifully, so feel free to make two and save one for later!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily uses the creaming method, which helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy pound cake. Don’t rush through the mixing process; taking your time here is key to achieving that perfect texture. Additionally, when measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the most accurate measurement!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before blending into puree.
How do I store leftover cake? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I add other flavors? Definitely! This cake serves as a great base for various flavors. Consider adding lemon zest or chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
Conclusion
There you have it—a scrumptious Strawberry Milkshake Pound Cake that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! With its moist texture and sweet strawberry flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, turn on some music, and enjoy the bliss that comes from baking and sharing this heartwarming dessert. Happy baking!