Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze

Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, making it ideal for any occasion. This cake is not only easy to make but also visually stunning with its vibrant glaze and fresh strawberries. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this pound cake will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious cake without any hassle.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy butter creates a moist cake bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect as a dessert or a sweet breakfast option, this cake suits various occasions.
• Eye-Catching: The pink strawberry glaze adds an appealing touch that makes it perfect for celebrations.
• Texture Delight: The pound cake has a tender crumb that pairs beautifully with the luscious glaze.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make all the difference when baking. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan or bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan or bundt pan: The right shape ensures even baking and presents beautifully.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, resulting in a light texture for your cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temp
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract, optional
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1 tbsp flour, for tossing strawberries

For the Strawberry Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 2-3 tbsp pureed strawberries, fresh or thawed frozen
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A drop of pink food coloring, optional

How to Make Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 325F (163C). Grease and flour a 9×5 loaf pan or bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts if using.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream. Begin and end with flour.
6. Toss chopped strawberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter. Gently fold into the batter.

Step 2: Bake

1. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
3. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Glaze

1. Blend or mash strawberries into a smooth puree.
2. Mix 2 tablespoons of the puree with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add more puree until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Optional: Add a tiny drop of food coloring for an extra vibrant pink glaze.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for an appealing finish. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze!

How to Serve Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze

Serving Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze can elevate any occasion, making it a delightful centerpiece for gatherings or a sweet treat for your family. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Enjoy with Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for added flavor and color.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream to complement the richness of the pound cake.

Add Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side creates a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

Drizzle Chocolate Sauce

• For an indulgent twist, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the glaze before serving.

Garnish with Mint

• Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing touch and enhance the presentation of your cake slices.

How to Perfect Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze

To ensure your Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for optimal mixing and a smooth batter.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid a dense texture in your pound cake.

• Toss Strawberries in Flour: Coating chopped strawberries in flour helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze

When serving Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze, consider complementing it with these delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits pairs wonderfully with rich pound cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a wholesome side that balances sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast that enhances the sweetness of the cake.
4. Roasted Nuts: Salted or spiced nuts add crunch and depth, making for an interesting textural contrast.
5. Chilled Lemonade: The zesty flavor of lemonade refreshes the palate between bites of sweet cake.
6. Herbed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a crisp counterpoint to the dessert’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze can be simple, but certain mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake that doesn’t rise properly.

• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can make your cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for an accurate measurement.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can create a tough texture. Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

• Skipping the flour toss on strawberries: Neglecting this step may cause strawberries to sink during baking. Toss them with a little flour to help them stay suspended in the batter.

• Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked cake. Perform the toothpick test to ensure it’s done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for best protection against freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze:

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to your batter.

How do I achieve a thicker glaze?

To make a thicker strawberry glaze, reduce the amount of pureed strawberries when mixing with powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt or buttermilk are great substitutes for sour cream in this recipe while maintaining moisture and flavor.

How do I store leftover glaze?

Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using again.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Pound Cake with Strawberry Glaze is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or nuts. Whether served at breakfast or as a dessert, this cake is sure to impress. Give it a try!