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Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake
Introduction
Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect combination of rich, buttery indulgence and fruity freshness. With its tender crumb, velvety texture, and a touch of cream cheese tang balanced by the sweetness of fresh strawberries, this cake feels both nostalgic and elegant. Whether served with tea, enjoyed as a dessert, or shared during celebrations, it’s a delightful treat that embodies home-baked warmth and sophistication.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The pound cake dates back to 18th-century Europe, traditionally made with a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour — a simple formula that gave the cake its name. Over time, bakers around the world have reimagined the classic by introducing ingredients like cream cheese for richness and fruit for seasonal flavor. In the American South, the cream cheese pound cake has become a cherished dessert, often baked for holidays, family gatherings, and Sunday suppers. The addition of strawberries adds a modern twist, celebrating both tradition and freshness in every slice.
Ingredients Quantity
- All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups (315 g)
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Unsalted butter (softened) – 1 cup (225 g)
- Cream cheese (softened) – 8 oz (225 g)
- Granulated sugar – 2 cups (400 g)
- Large eggs – 4
- Pure vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
- Fresh strawberries (diced) – 1 ½ cups (about 200 g)
- Strawberry jam – ¼ cup (optional, for swirl or topping)
- Powdered sugar – for dusting (optional)
Optional Additions
- Lemon zest for a hint of brightness
- A touch of almond extract for a nutty aroma
- White chocolate chips or glaze for extra sweetness
- Whipped cream or fresh strawberry slices for garnish
- A drizzle of strawberry coulis for a more refined presentation
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients: Butter, eggs, and cream cheese blend better when soft, creating a smooth, airy batter.
- Do not overmix: Once flour is added, mix gently to keep the cake light and tender.
- Coat strawberries lightly in flour: This prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
- Bake slowly: Pound cakes bake best at a lower temperature to ensure even cooking and a moist center.
- Cool completely before slicing: This helps the texture set and enhances flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or bundt pan. Line with parchment paper if desired.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Add sugar gradually and continue to beat until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Toss diced strawberries in a tablespoon of flour, then fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly.
- If desired, swirl strawberry jam into the top with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream before serving.
Description
This cake is beautifully golden on the outside, with a moist and velvety crumb inside. Each bite reveals soft bits of strawberry that burst with flavor, balanced by the subtle tang of cream cheese and the comforting richness of butter. The aroma alone can fill your kitchen with the scent of home baking, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximately 1/10 of the loaf)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 28 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
Conclusion
Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake combines old-fashioned charm with a burst of fresh strawberry flavor. It’s rich yet refreshing, indulgent yet balanced — the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary day into something memorable.
Recommendation
Serve this cake slightly chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries. It pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of sparkling rosé. For an elegant dessert, top it with a drizzle of strawberry glaze and a mint sprig.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
You can enjoy this cake more healthfully by making simple substitutions — try using Greek yogurt in place of some butter, or whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber. Reduce sugar slightly and rely on the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries. This balance between indulgence and nourishment lets you savor every slice without compromise, celebrating both taste and well-being.
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