The Ultimate Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe
This Ultimate Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. It combines the classic dense texture of a pound cake with the tangy creaminess of cream cheese and the fresh sweetness of strawberries, enhanced by an optional strawberry glaze for an added touch of elegance and flavor.
- Author: Tara
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 to 85 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, finely chopped and lightly dusted with 1 tablespoon flour
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons strawberry puree (optional, for flavor and color)
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan, or alternatively, line it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, providing a rich base for the cake batter.
- Add Sugar: Incorporate the granulated sugar into the creamed mixture and beat for about 3 to 5 minutes until the batter becomes light and well combined, ensuring the cake will have a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the batter, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate and create a smooth texture.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile of the cake.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Mix Dry with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter which could make the cake dense.
- Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries that have been lightly dusted with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 75 to 85 minutes, checking at the 75-minute mark. If the top is browning too quickly, cover the cake loosely with foil.
- Cool Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. Then carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring it maintains its shape and texture.
- Prepare Glaze (Optional): Whisk together powdered sugar, 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree if using until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cake to add a sweet, fruity finish.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and dairy, are at room temperature for optimal mixing results.
- Lightly dusting the chopped strawberries with flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the batter during baking.
- Covering the cake with foil if it browns too quickly ensures even cooking without burning.
- The glaze is optional but adds a beautiful finish and extra strawberry flavor.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Store any leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Keywords: Strawberry pound cake, cream cheese pound cake, strawberry dessert, bundt cake, cream cheese cake, strawberry glaze, moist pound cake