Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and fresh strawberries. This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration that calls for something sweet. Its moist texture and luscious white glaze make it a standout treat that will impress your guests. Plus, it’s simple to make and sure to bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and strawberries creates a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday party, family gathering, or casual afternoon tea.
• Easy to Bake: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can succeed with this recipe.
• Beautiful Presentation: The white glaze drizzled over the cake enhances its visual appeal, making it a showstopper on any dessert table.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add your favorite flavors to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: Provides an impressive shape that enhances the cake’s presentation.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, ensuring a light texture for your cake.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.

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: Prepare 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 the mixture is light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Gently fold in chopped strawberries or strawberry puree. If desired, add food coloring for an enhanced look.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth out the top.

Step 3: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 75-85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream or milk, vanilla extract, and optional cream cheese until you achieve a smooth consistency. Drizzle generously over your cooled cake for an added touch of sweetness.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Serving Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is a delightful experience that can be enhanced by thoughtful pairings. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual gathering, these suggestions will elevate your dessert presentation.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair the cake with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The fruity flavors complement the sweetness of the cake.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve slices of the pound cake with a dollop of whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that balances the rich cream cheese flavor.

With Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream makes an excellent accompaniment. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm cake.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy the cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth and bitterness of the beverage enhance the sweet notes of the pound cake.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Consider serving small slices as part of a breakfast spread. It pairs well with fruit and yogurt for a balanced morning meal.

With Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent twist. This adds richness and depth to every bite.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

Perfecting your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing.

• Do not overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and prevent it from becoming dense.

• Cool completely before glazing: Letting the cake cool on a wire rack ensures that the glaze won’t melt off when applied.

• Add more strawberries: For an extra fruity flavor, consider incorporating additional strawberries into both the batter and as a garnish.

• Test doneness properly: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready to come out of the oven.

• Store properly: Keep leftover cake covered 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 create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and complements the sweetness of the cake.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that’s perfect alongside your pound cake.

3. Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse offers decadence that pairs well with the lighter flavors in the pound cake.

4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like Brie or mascarpone which harmonize nicely with sweet desserts.

5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add another layer of flavor that enhances your dessert spread without overwhelming it.

6. Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty sweetness from pecan pie bars complements strawberry flavors while adding variety to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking the Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can affect your cake’s texture and flavor.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 325F (163C) before starting.

• Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can make your cake dense. Mix until just combined, especially after adding flour.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for too long can result in a soggy bottom. Cool for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the cake’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese may not mix well, leading to lumps. Always soften them at room temperature before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350F (175C), heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per slice.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze and their answers.

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess liquid before mixing into the batter.

How do I make my glaze thicker?

To achieve a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can try using mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for different flavors or dietary needs.

Can I add other fruits to the pound cake?

Absolutely! You may incorporate other berries like blueberries or raspberries alongside strawberries for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with White Glaze is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by experimenting with different fruits or flavors in both the cake and glaze. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!