Description
This Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake is a luscious, rich dessert combining the creamy texture of cheesecake with the dense, buttery crumb of a classic pound cake. Topped with fresh macerated strawberries, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, ideal for any occasion or a special treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later incorporation.
- Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes and creates the base for a tender cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure proper emulsification. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor depth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream and whole milk. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter and ensure a moist cake.
- Fill Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps the cake set and avoid crumbling.
- Prepare Strawberry Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently to mix and let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes to macerate and release juices.
- Serve: Once the cake is fully cooled, top it with the macerated strawberries. Slice into 12 equal pieces and enjoy this delightful dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened for easier blending and smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
- Letting the strawberries macerate enhances their sweetness and juiciness for the topping.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen, but thaw and drain excess liquid before using.