Introduction
Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, buttery texture of a classic pound cake with the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberries and cream cheese. This luscious cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply an indulgent treat at home. The combination of moist cake and creamy frosting makes it irresistible, and the vibrant strawberry flavor adds a refreshing twist.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 cups granulated sugar
– 5 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
Prep Time
Preparation takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) before you start mixing.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The total time, including preparation and cooking, is approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. This recipe yields one 10-inch pound cake, which can serve about 12 slices, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Ensure that your oven is properly heated before placing the cake inside for even baking.
Prepare the Bundt Pan
Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan. This will help the cake release easily once baked.
Mix the Cream Cheese and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sugar. Beat together until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is fully incorporated.
Add the Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, to the cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully blended.
Incorporate Vanilla Extract
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until you see no dry flour. Be careful not to overmix.
Add the Strawberries
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries. This adds flavor and texture to the cake.
Transfer to Bundt Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake the Cake
Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage Recommendations
Once the cake is completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variation Suggestions
You can experiment with different fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, in place of strawberries for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a decorative touch when serving.
Cook techniques
Creaming Method
The creaming method is essential for achieving a light and fluffy pound cake. This technique involves beating butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and airy, which incorporates air and gives the cake its structure.
Proper Mixing
Mixing the ingredients just until combined is crucial. Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing without overdoing it.
Baking at the Right Temperature
Baking the cake at a consistent temperature helps it rise properly. Ensuring your oven is preheated to the correct temperature is vital for even baking.
Checking for Doneness
To check if your pound cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This technique ensures the cake is perfectly baked without being dry.
Cooling Properly
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart and allows it to finish baking with residual heat.
FAQ
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can substitute with Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
How do I store the pound cake?
Store the pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate to extend its shelf life.
Can I freeze the pound cake?
Yes, you can freeze the pound cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
What other flavors can I add to the pound cake?
You can incorporate vanilla extract, lemon zest, or almond extract to enhance the cake’s flavor profile.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the freshness of strawberries, creating a moist and flavorful treat. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family with its vibrant taste and beautiful presentation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting
Pair your favorite cakes with this creamy and smooth frosting that adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.