Introduction: Indulge in the rich and moist flavors of this delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake. This cake combines the buttery goodness of a traditional pound cake with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the fresh tang of strawberries. Perfect for special occasions or when you simply crave a decadent dessert, this cake is sure to impress everyone with its vibrant colors and luscious taste.
Ingredients:
For the Pound Cake:
-
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries for topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pound Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until combined and smooth.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour half of the pound cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the batter, then top with the remaining pound cake batter.
- Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake:
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Strawberry Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine pureed strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Decorate and Serve:
- Pour the cooled strawberry glaze over the pound cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Garnish with fresh strawberries on top.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Conclusion: This Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake is a show-stopping dessert with its blend of flavors and textures. The buttery pound cake, creamy cheesecake layer, and fresh strawberry glaze create a dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just a sweet craving, this cake will leave everyone asking for seconds!