Strawberry Pound Cake

Deliciously moist and flavorful, this Strawberry Pound Cake is a one-bowl treat that has a fruity and sweet glaze and satisfies that sweet tooth! It’s a great spring and summer dessert that is perfect for picnics, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home. This cake stands out with its vibrant flavor profile, combining the sweetness of strawberries with the rich texture of pound cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This Strawberry Pound Cake comes together in just one bowl, saving you time on cleanup.
• Bursting with Flavor – Fresh strawberries add a delightful taste that makes each slice irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Versatile Treat – Serve it as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast for a refreshing twist.
• A Showstopper – The beautiful glaze and berry-studded interior make it visually appealing and impressive to guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your baking adventure, gather your essential tools. Using the right equipment ensures your Strawberry Pound Cake turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8 or 9-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf Pan – A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps the cake maintain its shape.
• Mixing Bowls – Having multiple sizes allows for easy mixing without spilling ingredients.
• Whisk – A whisk helps combine wet ingredients smoothly for better texture in your cake.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup diced strawberries (about 1 1/4 cup whole)
– 1/2 cup smashed strawberries (about 1 cup whole)
– 2 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Strawberry Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8 or 9-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl:
Stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate large mixing bowl:
Combine the plain Greek yogurt, sugar, eggs, almond extract, and vegetable oil.
Mix until well combined.
Slowly stir in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.

Step 4: Add Strawberries

Gently fold in:
* The diced strawberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
Bake for about 50 minutes or until the center is set.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked:
Remove from oven and let sit for about 10 minutes.
Turn out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake cools:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine smashed strawberries with powdered sugar to create your glaze.

Step 8: Glaze Your Cake

Once cooled:
Pour the strawberry glaze over the top of the cake.
Allow it to set before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Pound Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Pound Cake

Strawberry Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it plain or dressed up, serving options abound to enhance its fruity flavor.

Classic Slice

• Enjoy a simple slice of Strawberry Pound Cake on its own for a delightful treat any time of day.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream to add extra creaminess and richness.

A la Mode

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

With Fresh Berries

• Garnish the plate with fresh strawberries or mixed berries to complement the cake’s flavor and add a pop of color.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• For chocolate lovers, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for an indulgent twist.

Pair with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your Strawberry Pound Cake alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for afternoon snacks or gatherings.

How to Perfect Strawberry Pound Cake

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Pound Cake, consider these helpful tips for an ideal texture and flavor.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature for better incorporation and fluffiness.
• Measure flour correctly: Avoid dense cake by spooning flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and airy.
• Fold in strawberries gently: This prevents breaking them down too much, preserving their shape and flavor in the cake.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Pound Cake

Strawberry Pound Cake pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its sweet flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and strawberries for a healthy side.
3. Custard Sauce: A rich custard adds creaminess and enhances the cake’s flavors.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
5. Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor pairs well with strawberries while providing a unique twist.
6. Minted Peas: A light side that adds freshness and color, contrasting nicely with dessert.
7. Balsamic Glazed Veggies: Roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic offer an unexpected but delicious pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Pound Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and other ingredients. Fresh ingredients yield better results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Not measuring strawberries correctly: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup for accuracy. Incorrect amounts can affect flavor and texture.
• Skipping the cooling process: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting off and ensures a better presentation.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F. An uncalibrated oven can lead to uneven baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your cooled Strawberry Pound Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Pound Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and warm each slice for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Pound Cake that might help you while baking.

How do I make my Strawberry Pound Cake more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding vanilla extract or lemon zest along with almond extract. These additions complement the strawberries beautifully.

Can I use frozen strawberries in my Strawberry Pound Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

What should I serve with Strawberry Pound Cake?

Consider serving your pound cake with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for added flavor and texture contrast.

How long does it take to bake a Strawberry Pound Cake?

Typically, it takes about 50 minutes at 350°F for your cake to bake thoroughly. Keep an eye on it towards the end!

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Pound Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or glazes according to your preference. Try this simple recipe for a delightful spring or summer dessert that everyone will love!