Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the freshness of strawberries. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual weekend treat. The addition of white glaze adds a beautiful finish, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese and strawberries creates a luxurious flavor profile.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Easy to Follow: Simple instructions make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Beautiful Presentation: The white glaze gives this cake an elegant look, ideal for impressing guests.
• Moist Texture: The cake stays moist thanks to the butter and cream cheese, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze, you’ll need some essential tools. Preparing your kitchen with these items will help streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: Provides a beautiful shape that enhances presentation.
• Electric mixer: Ensures your batter is light and fluffy by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in delicate ingredients like strawberries without deflating 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 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 granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy, approximately 4-5 minutes.
3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Mix in vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined.
7. Gently fold in chopped strawberries or strawberry puree. Add food coloring if desired.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth out the top.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

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

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and optional cream cheese until smooth and pourable. Drizzle generously over the cooled cake before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Serving your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or a simple afternoon tea, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Top with Fresh Strawberries

• Add sliced fresh strawberries on top of the cake for a burst of color and flavor. This enhances the strawberry theme and adds a refreshing touch.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream. This creamy addition complements the pound cake’s texture and adds extra indulgence.

Accompany with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side makes for a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor. It’s perfect for warm days!

Drizzle with Extra Glaze

• For those who love sweetness, drizzle more white glaze over each slice before serving. It enhances the cake’s visual appeal and taste.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish for an elegant look. The mint not only beautifies the plate but also provides a refreshing hint that balances the sweetness.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to prevent adding too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the strawberries to maintain their shape and ensure a light texture in the cake.
• Check doneness early: Start checking your cake at 75 minutes to avoid overbaking. A toothpick should come out clean.
• Cool properly: Allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely for optimal texture.

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

Adding side dishes can enhance your dessert experience when serving Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can provide freshness and balance out the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and berries create a delightful contrast that’s both creamy and crunchy.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent treats complement the strawberry flavor beautifully while adding an elegant touch.
4. Lemon Sorbet: The citrusy zing of lemon sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich cake.
5. Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or coffee pairs well with dessert, enhancing flavors and providing warmth.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer an interesting savory contrast to the sweet cake, making for an elegant pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a strawberry cream cheese pound cake can be delightful, but certain mistakes can spoil the fun. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Soften Ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy batter. Always ensure they are softened at room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the Baking Time: Every oven is different. Avoid underbaking by using a toothpick to check for doneness and adjusting baking time as needed.
• Ignoring Ingredient Measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re adding the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep your pound cake light and fluffy.
• Not Greasing the Pan Properly: A well-greased Bundt pan is essential for easy cake removal. Use butter or cooking spray generously on all surfaces of the pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• This pound cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.

How do I make my glaze thicker?

To thicken your white glaze, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I substitute cream cheese with a lighter option?

You can use low-fat cream cheese as an alternative, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly.

How long does Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze last?

The cake lasts about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or flavorings. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Give this recipe a try, and delight your taste buds!