Dive into the creamy, dreamy world of our Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake! This delicious cake is soft, rich, and packed with fresh strawberries, making it a must-try for all cake aficionados. Whether you’re hosting a party or indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is the perfect treat that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. The tangy flavor of cream cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries, creating a beautifully balanced dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup strawberry sauce
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing!
Fold in the chopped strawberries gently, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into a greased 10-inch bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Drizzle the strawberry sauce over the cake, and garnish with whole strawberries before serving for an extra touch of elegance.
Notes:
- Make it your own: For a slight variation, try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the batter for a fresh citrusy flavor.
- Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it to keep it fresh longer.
- Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen ones (just be sure to thaw and drain them well).
FAQs:
Can I use other berries instead of strawberries? Absolutely! You can replace strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or even blackberries for a delicious twist. Just ensure you adjust the sweetness and sauce to complement the new fruit.
Why is my pound cake dry? A dry pound cake could result from overbaking or overmixing the batter. Be sure to check the cake a few minutes before the recommended bake time and mix only until the ingredients are combined.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese? For the best texture and richness, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Low-fat versions may result in a less creamy and dense cake.
Conclusion:
This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful blend of buttery richness and fruity sweetness, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or chilled, each bite will leave you craving more. Serve it with extra strawberry sauce for a burst of flavor, and don’t forget the fresh strawberries on top for an elegant presentation!