Name: Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1½ cups butter (softened); 3 cups sugar; 1 package cream cheese (softened); 6 eggs eggs; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp almond extract; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ⅔ cup Marzetti Glaze for Strawberries

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Whenever I crave something sweet, the first thing that comes to mind is the irresistible Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake. This delightful dessert has a way of making any gathering feel extra special. I still remember the first time I baked this cake; the smell of the buttery batter filled my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. The vibrant, sweet strawberry glaze swirled throughout adds a fun pop of color and flavor that makes it not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes too. Each slice is a piece of happiness, perfect for brunches, afternoon tea, or simply enjoying with loved ones after dinner. It’s the kind of cake that brings back memories of warm afternoons spent in the kitchen, laughter echoing around as we waited for it to bake. Trust me, once you make this cake, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 25 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
70 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
360 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Kitchen-Aid Mixer, Tube Cake Pan

What Sets This Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Apart

1. A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake is a masterpiece of flavor that showcases the lusciousness of strawberries paired perfectly with the rich, buttery taste of pound cake. The combination of these flavors creates a delightful experience in every bite, making it a crowd-pleaser.

2. Versatile for Any Occasion

This cake isn’t just for birthdays or special events. Whether you’re planning a casual family gathering or a festive brunch, the Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake fits right in. It’s versatile enough to serve during celebrations or even as a comforting treat on a quiet evening at home.

3. Simple Yet Elegant

There’s something truly satisfying about creating a dessert that looks stunning without requiring complicated techniques. The swirling of the strawberry glaze gives the cake an elegant touch, making it perfect for impressing guests while being simple enough for home bakers.

4. Memories in the Making

Baking this cake isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories. Whether you’re baking with family or surprising a friend, this cake brings people together. The joy of sharing a slice of your homemade creation is unparalleled.

5. Perfectly Moist and Tender

One of the hallmarks of a great pound cake is its moist and tender crumb. This recipe ensures that each slice of your Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake is not just delicious but also has the perfect texture that melts in your mouth. You’ll be going back for seconds!

What to Gather for Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake

When it comes to baking the Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake, choosing the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating this delectable dessert. The buttery base, combined with fresh strawberries, creates a flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated.

1½ cups butter, softened – This rich ingredient is essential for a moist and flavorful cake.
3 cups sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the richness of the butter.
1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened – Provides a creamy texture and a hint of tanginess.
6 eggs – Essential for binding and adding moisture.
3 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cake.
1 tsp almond extract – Infuses a lovely depth of flavor.
½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
⅔ cup Marzetti Glaze for Strawberries – Adds a sweet and fruity swirl to the cake.

Making This Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, let’s dive into making this lovely Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake. The process is straightforward, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with the delightful aroma of baking cake.

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan, making sure to cover all surfaces for easy release later on.
In the bowl of a Kitchen-Aid mixer, add the butter. Beat at medium speed until it’s creamy and smooth. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. You want to see a light, fluffy texture.
Gradually add the sugar into the butter mixture while continuing to beat. The mixture should turn pale and fluffy after about 2 minutes of beating.
Next, add the softened cream cheese to the mixture and beat well until fully incorporated. This will add richness to your batter.
Now, one at a time, add each of the eggs, ensuring that you beat just until the yellow disappears after each addition. This helps in creating a smooth batter.
Gradually add the flour to the mixture at low speed. It’s important to mix gently to avoid overworking the batter which could result in a dense cake.
Stir in the almond extract and vanilla extract, ensuring that the flavors blend well into the batter.
Pour one-third of the batter into the prepared pan. Then, drop one-third of the Marzetti Glaze for Strawberries on top, and use a wooden skewer or knife to swirl it gently. Repeat this process with the remaining batter and glaze.
Bake in the preheated oven for 70 to 80 minutes. Start checking around the 70-minute mark by inserting a wooden skewer into the center. The cake is done when it comes out clean.
If the top of the cake starts browning too much, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the inside continues to cook.

Things Worth Knowing

Check for doneness: Ensure you test your cake with a skewer or toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a well-emulsified batter.
Cooling the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps in maintaining its shape.
Swirling Technique: Don’t over-swirl the glaze; you want to create a marbled effect, not fully blend it into the batter.

Recipe Notes about Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake turns out perfectly!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Variations: Try adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist.
Serving: Slice and serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake

When it comes to serving your Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake, the possibilities are endless!

Brunch Treat: Serve slices alongside coffee or tea for a delightful brunch option that will impress your guests.
Afternoon Snack: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a light afternoon snack that satisfies the sweet tooth.
Celebratory Dessert: Use as a dessert centerpiece for birthday parties or family gatherings. It’s sure to be a hit!
Seasonal Flavor: Make it during spring to celebrate the strawberry season, or enjoy it year-round with the right ingredients.
Storage Tips: Keep any uneaten cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Don’t forget to label your leftovers!

FAQ

Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can add a delightful touch to your Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake. Simply slice them and mix in with the batter or use them to top the cake once it’s baked. Just keep in mind that using fresh berries might alter the moisture content slightly, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

The best way to store your Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it or even freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!

Yes, you can definitely make the Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake ahead of time! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just be sure to store it properly to maintain its moisture and flavor. You can bake it a day or two in advance and keep it wrapped until ready to serve.

This cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments! For a simple treat, serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You could also enjoy it with fresh fruit, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake is a celebration of flavors that’s sure to bring joy to any occasion. Its perfect blend of buttery cake and fresh strawberries creates a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. I encourage you to try making this cake; it could become a cherished recipe in your collection. Not only is it delicious, but it also brings people together, making it a wonderful addition to any gathering.