Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound

Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful and rich dessert that brings together the creamy texture of cream cheese, the buttery goodness of a pound cake, and the fresh, fruity burst of strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, afternoon tea, or a special celebration, this pound cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries (lightly dusted with flour to prevent sinking)

For the Strawberry Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons pureed fresh strawberries
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and airy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Sift the flour and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually add it to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using.
7. Gently fold in the diced strawberries that have been dusted with flour.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 75-85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, pureed strawberries, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more strawberry puree; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
3. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and let it set before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This pound cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also goes great with fresh berries on the side.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freeze slices individually for up to three months.

Enjoy this rich and delicious Homemade Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake with your loved ones!