Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors with a fluffy texture, making it perfect for any occasion. This cake not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning, thanks to the vibrant strawberries and luscious white glaze. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, this pound cake will impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and strawberries creates a rich and fruity taste that is hard to resist.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this cake without any hassle.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for various occasions from family gatherings to casual afternoon tea.
• Beautiful Presentation: The white glaze and pink strawberry bits make this cake visually appealing on any dessert table.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to cream cheese and fresh strawberries, this pound cake remains moist and tender for days.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delectable Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: This unique shape not only enhances the cake’s appearance but also helps it bake evenly.
• Electric mixer: Ensures that the butter and cream cheese blend perfectly for a light and airy batter.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing dry ingredients together thoroughly, preventing lumps in your batter.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries or strawberry puree
• A few drops of red or pink food coloring (optional for color boost)

For the White Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 tbsp cream cheese for extra richness (softened)

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy (about 4-5 minutes).
3. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries or strawberry puree along with food coloring if desired.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth out the top.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake in preheated oven for 75-85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and optional cream cheese until smooth and pourable.

Step 5: Drizzle Over Cake

Once cooled, drizzle generously over the top of your strawberry pound cake for an extra touch of sweetness!

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze!

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Serving Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze can elevate any gathering. This delightful cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Pairing with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve alongside a mix of fresh berries like blueberries and raspberries for a vibrant, colorful plate.
• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries complement the cake’s flavor and add freshness.

Adding Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of sweetened whipped cream on each slice adds lightness and richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider infusing whipped cream with vanilla or citrus zest for an extra layer of flavor.

Using Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream pairs well, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
• Strawberry Sorbet: For a fruity twist, serve with strawberry sorbet that enhances the cake’s strawberry flavor.

Coffee or Tea Pairings

• Fresh Brewed Coffee: The rich taste of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweet notes of the cake.
• Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea provides a calming complement to this dessert.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

To make your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold use of quality ingredients: Use high-quality butter and fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
• Bold ensure even mixing: Mix your batter thoroughly but avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
• Bold check your oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm it’s at 325°F (163°C) for accurate baking.
• Bold cool completely before glazing: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Complementing your dessert with side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some ideal options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit offers a creamy, crunchy addition.
3. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy delights are a great match for the moist pound cake.
4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For an indulgent treat, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries on the side.
5. Lemon Sorbet: This light, zesty sorbet cleanses the palate between bites.
6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a rich contrast that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the texture and flavor of your cake.

• Not using softened ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can create a lumpy batter. Always ensure they are at room temperature for a smoother mix.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Removing the cake too soon from the pan may cause it to break apart. Allow it to cool for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
• Ignoring oven calibration: Every oven is different. If your cake isn’t baking as expected, consider checking your oven’s actual temperature with an oven thermometer.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or flour can affect the rise and taste of your cake. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.

Freezing Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the cake moist.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to dry it out.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Thaw and drain frozen strawberries before adding them to your batter to avoid excess moisture.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

What can I replace cream cheese with?

You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese as alternatives, but this will change the flavor slightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese to create a delicious dairy-free version of this pound cake.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich taste and beautiful presentation!