Strawberry pound cake is a beloved dessert that combines the rich, buttery texture of traditional pound cake with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of fresh strawberries. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to elegant dinner parties.
Strawberry Pound Cake
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 ¼ cups fresh strawberries
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose baking mix
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract
- ½ cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat 10- x 5- inch loaf pan with spray. Hull strawberries and cut into ½-inch cubes (1 cup). Place strawberries and baking mix in medium bowl and stir to combine.
- Combine in large bowl: sugar, yogurt, eggs, extract, and oil; whisk until blended. Add strawberry mixture and stir gently (fold) until blended.
- Spread batter evenly into loaf pan. Bake 50–60 minutes until top is golden and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool 30 minutes in pan before removing and placing on wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
A Brief History of Pound Cake
The origins of pound cake date back to 18th-century Europe, where the recipe was incredibly simple: a pound each of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. This straightforward formula made it easy to remember and guaranteed a dense, rich texture that became a staple in many households. Over time, variations of the pound cake emerged, incorporating additional ingredients such as vanilla, citrus zest, and, of course, fruit.
In the United States, pound cake gained popularity in the Southern states, where it became a cherished dessert, often served with fresh fruit and whipped cream. The addition of strawberries to pound cake likely evolved from the Southern tradition of pairing fresh berries with sweet cakes to create a light yet indulgent dessert.
The Strawberry Twist
Strawberry pound cake takes the classic recipe to the next level by introducing fresh or pureed strawberries into the batter, providing a burst of natural sweetness and a beautiful pink hue. Some variations also include strawberry glaze or cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of decadence. Whether made from scratch or using a shortcut with strawberry-flavored ingredients, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser.
Interesting Facts About Strawberry Pound Cake
- Versatile Ingredients: While traditional recipes call for fresh strawberries, many bakers experiment with freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry jam to enhance flavor and texture.
- A Summertime Favorite: Strawberry pound cake is often associated with warm-weather celebrations, thanks to the abundance of fresh, juicy strawberries available during the summer months.
- Perfect for Gifting: Due to its rich texture and long shelf life, strawberry pound cake makes an excellent gift for holidays, birthdays, or as a homemade token of appreciation.
- Customizable Flavors: Some creative twists include adding white chocolate chips, lemon zest, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar to complement the strawberry flavor.
How to Enjoy Strawberry Pound Cake
Strawberry pound cake is best enjoyed slightly chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a more indulgent experience. Whether served as a breakfast treat with a cup of coffee or as a showstopping dessert at a gathering, this cake is sure to delight.
