If you are searching for a delightful and visually stunning dessert, this Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe is a must-try. Imagine a rich, buttery pound cake infused with creamy cream cheese and highlighted by vibrant swirls of sweet strawberry glaze that give each bite a burst of fresh fruit flavor. This cake is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or any cozy afternoon treat. With its moist texture and elegant presentation, the Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.

Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping the ingredients simple yet essential is key to achieving that perfectly moist and flavorful pound cake. Each component plays an important role—from the buttery richness to the fresh strawberry glaze that adds both taste and beautiful color to the cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

1½ cups butter (softened): Butter is the backbone of the cake’s rich and tender crumb, offering incredible flavor and moisture.
3 cups sugar: Balances the richness with just the right amount of sweetness, helping to create a delicate crust.
1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened): Adds a luscious creaminess that keeps the cake moist and tender.
6 eggs: Eggs provide structure, moisture, and richness to the pound cake’s dense but soft texture.
3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds everything together while maintaining a tender bite.
1 teaspoon almond extract: Offers a subtle, nutty aroma that perfectly complements the strawberry flavor.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, inviting sweetness.
⅔ cup Marzetti Glaze for Strawberries: This glaze creates the signature beautiful strawberry swirls and fresh fruity taste.

How to Make Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Proper oven temperature ensures even cooking and a perfect rise. Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan to prevent sticking, which is essential for maintaining the cake’s delicate texture and shape once baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it becomes creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving the cake a light, fluffy texture.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Eggs

Next, mix in the softened cream cheese until well combined. The cream cheese adds moisture and richness, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’ll love. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating after each just until the yellow disappears to avoid overmixing, which could toughen the cake.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Extracts

Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the batter on low speed to prevent flour dust from flying everywhere. Once fully incorporated, stir in the almond and vanilla extracts. These extracts deepen the flavor and complement the strawberry glaze beautifully.

Step 5: Layer Batter and Strawberry Glaze

Pour one-third of the batter into the prepared tube pan. Spoon one-third of the strawberry glaze over the batter and swirl it through gently using a wooden skewer or knife. Repeat this layering with the remaining batter and glaze to create those striking, eye-catching strawberry swirls throughout the cake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 70 to 80 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end; if the top starts browning too much, gently cover it with foil to prevent overbaking while the inside finishes cooking perfectly.

How to Serve Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

One of the joys of serving this cake is the opportunity to enhance its beauty and flavor with simple, fresh garnishes. Try dusting the top with powdered sugar or adding a few fresh strawberries on the side. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of strawberry sauce can add a delightful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This pound cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For afternoon tea, a cup of chamomile or green tea elevates the experience without overpowering the cake’s flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe the centerpiece by slicing it thick for brunch platters or cutting it into petite squares for party finger foods. Layer it with strawberry preserves and whipped cream for a quick trifle, or serve individual slices topped with mascarpone cheese for an indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture. Kept at room temperature, the cake stays fresh for 2 to 3 days, but refrigerating can extend its life up to a week, just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice the cake before freezing and wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way you can defrost only what you need. Frozen pound cake can last up to 3 months without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To revive your pound cake, warm slices gently in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300ºF for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps restore its moist, just-baked feel, especially if you’re serving it with cold garnishes or ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of the glaze?

While fresh strawberries add wonderful flavor, the glaze is specially formulated to maintain structure and sweetness within the cake’s swirls. You can try fresh strawberries, but expect a different texture and less defined swirls.

Do I need an electric mixer?

An electric mixer makes the process easier and helps achieve the perfect creamy batter. However, a strong whisk and a bit of elbow grease can work if you don’t have one, though it may take longer to get a smooth texture.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?

For the best results, cream cheese is recommended for moisture and tang, but Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute with slightly different texture. Avoid skipping it entirely to maintain the cake’s signature richness.

How long does this pound cake keep its freshness?

Left at room temperature and well wrapped, this pound cake will stay fresh and moist for about 2 to 3 days. Refrigeration can extend freshness to about a week without drying it out.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can work, but results may vary. A blend that includes xanthan gum usually performs best to mimic the texture of wheat flour.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe that makes it a standout every time you make it. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, this cake combines classic flavors with a burst of fresh strawberry goodness in a way that feels both comforting and festive. I can’t wait for you to bake one and experience the joy it brings — it just might become your go-to recipe for all occasions!

Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe

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4.1 from 71 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

A rich and moist Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake featuring a tender cream cheese-infused batter with vibrant swirls of sweet strawberry glaze, perfect for any occasion and sure to delight cake lovers with its buttery texture and fruity highlight.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pound Cake Batter

1½ cups butter (softened)
3 cups sugar
1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened)
6 eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp almond extract
½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Swirl

⅔ cup Marzetti Glaze for Strawberries

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Create Creamy Butter Mixture: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter at medium speed until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
Add Cream Cheese and Eggs: Mix in the softened cream cheese thoroughly into the butter-sugar mixture. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition just until the yellow from the yolk disappears to avoid overmixing.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Flavor: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the batter on low speed to prevent flour from flying out. Stir in the almond and vanilla extracts, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
Layer Batter and Strawberry Glaze: Pour one-third of the batter into the prepared pan. Spoon one-third of the strawberry glaze over the batter, then use a wooden skewer or knife to swirl the glaze into the batter gently. Repeat with the remaining batter and glaze, creating distinct strawberry swirls in the cake.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 70 to 80 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a wooden skewer into the center; it should come out clean. If the cake top begins to brown too quickly, tent with foil to prevent over-browning.

Notes

Make sure butter and cream cheese are fully softened for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
Swirling the glaze gently prevents it from sinking to the bottom while still creating beautiful marbled patterns.
Use a 10-inch tube pan for even heat distribution and proper rising.
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan for 15-20 minutes before removing to avoid breaking.
Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American