Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake. This rich and moist pound cake is infused with fresh strawberries and features a creamy cheesecake filling that takes it to a whole new level. Whether youโre celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Pound Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp strawberry puree (blend a few strawberries)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pound Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Greasing and flouring your bundt or loaf pan will ensure easy removal once the cake is baked.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is crucial as it incorporates air, giving your cake a delightful texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensure your cake rises beautifully.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold in the diced strawberries, which will add bursts of flavor and a lovely pink hue to your pound cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Mix Cheesecake Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. This filling will provide a creamy contrast to the fluffy pound cake.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Batter: Pour half of the pound cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Next, carefully spread the cheesecake filling over the batter, ensuring itโs evenly distributed.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Gently spoon the remaining pound cake batter on top of the cheesecake layer, smoothing it out.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
- Cool: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for achieving a perfect texture and preventing breakage.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze (Optional)
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and lemon juice until smooth. This glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish to your cake.
- Drizzle Over Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the strawberry glaze over the top. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful presentation.
Enjoy Your Creation!
Now that your Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake is ready, itโs time to slice and serve! This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you and your guests craving more.
Tips for Success:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and filling.
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries will provide the best flavor. Look for berries that are bright red and fragrant.
- Storage: 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. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
- Servings: 10 servings
This Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake is more than just a dessert; itโs a slice of joy that captures the essence of spring and summer with its fresh fruit flavors. Whether youโre hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this cake will undoubtedly be a hit. Happy baking!
