Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances rich creaminess with the freshness of strawberries. This cake is ideal for various occasions, from birthday celebrations to casual gatherings. Its moist texture and luscious white glaze make it a standout treat that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cream cheese creates a rich, flavorful cake that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or any celebration where you want to make a sweet statement.
• Easy to Bake: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant color of strawberries paired with the elegant white glaze makes for an eye-catching dessert.
• Customizable Options: You can adjust the sweetness or add different flavors to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: Its unique shape helps create an attractive cake while ensuring even baking.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and energy when creaming butter and sugar together, resulting in a fluffy texture.
• Whisk: Essential for combining dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution in the 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 325F (163C). Grease and flour your Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt until evenly mixed.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Add Strawberries

Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries or strawberry puree. If you choose to use food coloring for a more vibrant hue, add it now.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake for 75-85 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Let your cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the White Glaze

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

Step 8: Drizzle Over Cake

Once your cake is completely cooled, generously drizzle the white glaze over it. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze!

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Classic Slice

• Serve thick slices of the pound cake on their own to highlight the rich strawberry and cream cheese flavors.

Fresh Berries

• Add a handful of fresh strawberries or mixed berries on the side for a burst of freshness that complements the cake’s sweetness.

Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and a luxurious touch.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Fruit Compote

• Drizzle warm fruit compote over slices for an extra layer of flavor. A raspberry or berry compote works wonderfully.

Tea or Coffee

• Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon snack or dessert option.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Making the perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some ways to elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep the cake fluffy and light.

• Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary; check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean when ready.

• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting off.

• Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A tangy Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that complements the rich flavors.

3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the cake creates an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.

4. Nuts and Seeds: A sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds offers crunch and contrast in texture.

5. Chia Pudding: Serve chia pudding as a nutritious, creamy side that pairs well with the cake’s flavors.

6. Herbal Tea: A cup of herbal tea can provide soothing warmth, making it a perfect companion for dessert time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using cold ingredients: Always use softened butter and cream cheese for a smooth batter. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps.

• Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour can dry out your cake.

• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents breakage.

• Ignoring oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cake texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor absorption.

Freezing Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen 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). Wrap the cake in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Slice and microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Check for warmth.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze:

What makes this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake so moist?

The combination of cream cheese and butter adds moisture and richness, ensuring a tender crumb.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

How do I customize my Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze?

You can add citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, or mix in nuts for extra texture. Feel free to adjust sweetness according to your taste!

How long does it take to bake this cake?

Bake the cake for 75-85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, ensuring it is fully cooked through.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding fruits or flavors of your choice. Try this recipe for your next gathering or simply as a treat for yourself!