Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a rich, moist dessert that combines the creamy texture of cream cheese with the sweet and fruity flavor of strawberry preserves. This delightful cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or an afternoon treat. With its tender crumb and the swirl of strawberry throughout, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup strawberry preserves

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Spoon the strawberry preserves evenly over the batter, then top with the remaining batter.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

1. Berry Swirl: Add other fruit preserves like raspberry, blueberry, or mixed berry for a different fruity twist.
2. Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a fresh citrusy flavor that complements the strawberries.
3. Frosting: For an extra indulgent touch, top the cooled cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk.
4. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cake for a decadent finishing touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week to keep it fresh longer.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you’d like to enjoy it slightly warm.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe? Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, though it may slightly affect the texture and richness of the cake.
2. Can I use a different type of fruit preserve? Absolutely! You can substitute strawberry preserves with any other fruit preserve such as raspberry, blueberry, or apricot.
3. Can I bake this cake in a different size pan? You can use a different size pan, but the baking time may vary. If using a smaller pan, check the cake 10-15 minutes earlier for doneness.
4. How do I know when the cake is fully baked? Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.
5. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make the cake a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
6. How can I make the cake more moist? Make sure not to overbake the cake, as that can dry it out. Adding the cream cheese helps keep it moist, but you can also add a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter for extra moisture.
7. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
8. Can I add nuts to the cake? Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
9. How long should I let the cake cool before slicing? Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing for the best texture.
10. Can I make this cake without a Bundt pan? If you don’t have a Bundt pan, you can use a regular round cake pan or a loaf pan. Adjust the baking time as necessary, and check the cake for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luscious, flavorful dessert that pairs the tanginess of cream cheese with the sweetness of strawberries. The moist texture and vibrant flavor make it a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a simple afternoon tea. With its easy preparation and rich taste, this cake is sure to be a crowd favorite. Enjoy it fresh, or store it for later—either way, it’s a dessert you’ll want to keep coming back to!

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