Name: Strawberry Pound Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 cup plain greek yogurt; 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1.5 teaspoons almond extract; 0.5 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup diced strawberries (about 1 1/4 cup whole); 0.5 cup smashed strawberries (about 1 cup whole); 2 cups powdered sugar

Introduction to Strawberry Pound Cake

Finding the perfect dessert that balances flavor, ease, and seasonal freshness can be a challenge, especially for young professionals juggling busy schedules. Enter strawberry pound cake! This delightful treat not only offers a burst of fruity goodness, but it's also incredibly simple to make, requiring just one bowl for preparation.

Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or just looking to satisfy that sweet tooth after a long day, this cake is your go-to solution. The incorporation of Greek yogurt ensures a moist, tender crumb while the fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness. As the weather warms, the vibrant flavors of this cake make it a fitting choice for spring and summer picnics or brunches.

What's more? You can easily personalize this recipe, making it a fun opportunity to experiment with different ingredients, like adding lemon zest for a refreshing twist. The strawberry pound cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or herbal tea, making it the perfect companion for those rare moments of quiet on a busy weekend.

So why wait? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s just right for your next dessert endeavor!

Ingredients for Strawberry Pound Cake

Creating a delicious Strawberry Pound Cake is almost as delightful as enjoying a slice of it! To get started, let's gather everything you'll need.

Essential ingredients you’ll need

For this irresistible cake, you'll require:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake.
2 teaspoons baking powder: To add that delightful rise.
½ teaspoon salt: A pinch for flavor balance.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Instead of butter, it keeps the cake moist and adds that rich texture.
1 cup sugar: For sweetness that harmonizes wonderfully with strawberries.
3 large eggs: A vital ingredient for binding and richness.
1 ½ teaspoons almond extract: It infuses a subtle, sweet aroma.
½ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture without overshadowing the flavors.
1 cup diced strawberries: The star of the show, so use the freshest ones you can find!

Optional ingredients to enhance flavor

Feel free to get creative! Here are a few optional ingredients to elevate your Strawberry Pound Cake:

Lemon zest: A teaspoon or two can brighten the overall flavor.
Vanilla extract: Substituting half the almond extract with vanilla creates a lovely blend.
Chopped nuts: Walnuts or almonds can add a nice crunch if you enjoy texture in your desserts.
Cream cheese: Mixing a little cream cheese into your glaze can create a richer finish.

These additions can take your cake from delicious to absolutely sublime! For more inspiration, consider checking out additional baking resources from America's Test Kitchen or Serious Eats. Happy baking!

Preparing Strawberry Pound Cake

Baking a delicious strawberry pound cake at home is easier than you might think! Let’s guide you through each step to ensure you create a moist, flavorful dessert that captures the essence of fresh strawberries. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into the delightful details of preparing this sweet treat.

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start mixing, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here's what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients: All-purpose flour, baking powder, salt.
Wet Ingredients: Plain Greek yogurt, sugar, eggs, almond extract, vegetable oil.
Fruits: Diced strawberries.

Having everything ready allows you to enjoy the baking experience t without interruptions. Prepping your ingredients in advance also helps you avoid any last-minute scrambles – trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Mix Dry Ingredients in a Medium Bowl

In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these together until evenly mixed. This step is crucial because it helps ensure that your leavening agent (baking powder) is distributed uniformly, which in turn helps the cake rise beautifully.

Combine Wet Ingredients in a Large Mixing Bowl

In a separate large mixing bowl, mix together 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 cup of sugar, 3 large eggs, 1.5 teaspoons of almond extract, and ½ cup of vegetable oil. Use a whisk or electric mixer on medium speed until everything is well-blended. The creamy yogurt not only adds flavor but also contributes to the moistness of the cake.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients

Once your wet mixture is nice and smooth, gradually add in your dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix! A few floury specks left is perfectly fine, as they will meld in during baking.

Fold in the Strawberries and Pour Into the Prepared Pan

Gently fold in your diced strawberries (about 1 cup). This is where your strawberry pound cake begins to look and smell divine! After the strawberries are incorporated, pour your batter into a prepared 8 or 9-inch loaf pan that's been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.

Bake and Cool the Cake

Place your loaf pan in a preheated oven set at 350°F and bake for about 50 minutes. To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready! Once baked, let the cake sit for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Make the Strawberry Glaze

While your cake cools, it's time to whip up the delicious glaze. In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of smashed strawberries (about 1 cup whole) and 2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix until smooth. The glaze adds that extra layer of flavor that marries perfectly with the cake.

Pour Glaze Over Cooled Cake and Serve

Once your strawberry pound cake has cooled completely, it’s time to pour the glaze over the top. Let it sit for a few minutes to set, then slice and serve. Each slice will reveal delightful chunks of strawberries, and the sweet glaze adds that perfect finish.

And there you have it! A beautifully prepared strawberry pound cake that’s sure to impress at your next gathering. Enjoy!

Variations on Strawberry Pound Cake

Strawberry Lemon Pound Cake

Brighten up your classic strawberry pound cake by adding a zesty twist! Incorporate the juice and zest of one lemon into the batter for a refreshing flavor burst. The tanginess pairs perfectly with the sweetness of strawberries. Drizzle a lemon glaze over the top for an extra citrusy kick. This variation is an ideal choice for warm spring afternoons or summer picnics!

Strawberry Chocolate Chip Pound Cake

If you're a fan of indulgent desserts, consider adding chocolate chips to your strawberry pound cake! Fold in half a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips right before baking. The rich chocolate flavor complements the juicy strawberries beautifully, creating a decadent treat that’s sure to impress. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee for the ultimate dessert experience.

For more delightful variations and creative baking ideas, check out this article on baking tips.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Pound Cake

Ingredient substitutions for dietary needs

If you're looking to make your strawberry pound cake more accommodating to different dietary needs, consider these substitutions:

Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-free: Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt, such as almond or coconut-based yogurt.
Lower sugar: Use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to reduce sugar content.
Egg alternatives: замените яйца на "¼ стакана яблочного пюре на яйцо" для веганского варианта.

Importance of measuring ingredients accurately

When baking, precise measurements are essential for achieving the soft, moist texture that defines a delicious strawberry pound cake. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar and liquid measuring cups for yogurt and oils. A kitchen scale can ensure you get the exact amounts you need. Why gamble on consistency when accuracy guarantees a lovely bake?

For more tips on baking basics, check out resources such as King Arthur Baking for handy guides!

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Pound Cake

Pairing with Fresh Whipped Cream

Elevate your strawberry pound cake experience by serving it with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream. The light, airy texture of the cream complements the dense, moist cake beautifully and adds that extra touch of indulgence. For a twist, consider flavoring your whipped cream with a splash of vanilla extract or even a hint of almond—this brings out the cake’s fruity notes and makes each slice taste even sweeter.

Adding a Scoop of Ice Cream on the Side

For those warm summer evenings, adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your strawberry pound cake will make for a delightful treat. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream is simply irresistible! You could even experiment with strawberry or chocolate ice cream for an extra flavor boost. This combination not only looks stunning on the plate but also satisfies every sweet tooth craving.

These pairing suggestions will make your dessert table shine, and they are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Pound Cake

Preparation Time
Getting ready to whip up this delightful strawberry pound cake takes just about 10 minutes. With everything measured and prepped, you'll be all set to bring a taste of summer to your kitchen.

Baking Time
Pour the batter into your loaf pan and let your oven do the magic for 50 minutes. Make sure you check for doneness by testing the center.

Total Time
In under 1 hour, you’ll have a scrumptious pound cake ready to enjoy with friends or family. It’s the perfect option for a casual gathering or a cozy night in!

For a detailed guide on how to make this delicious dessert, be sure to check out Kristin Maxwell’s full recipe.

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Pound Cake

Caloric Content

A slice of strawberry pound cake contains approximately 280 calories. It’s a delightful option for those looking to indulge without going overboard. Enjoying this cake during gatherings or a quiet afternoon snack brings a satisfying sweetness without a hefty caloric price tag.

Macronutrients Breakdown

This luscious dessert provides a balanced mix of macronutrients:

Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g (with 9g from saturated fat)

With this breakdown, you can relish your cake as a treat while keeping an eye on your nutritional intake. If you’re curious about the health benefits of strawberries, check out Healthline's article on fruit benefits for some delicious reasons to enjoy your slice guilt-free!

Feel free to pair this strawberry pound cake with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for an even more balanced snack, perfect for those sunny days or family gatherings!

FAQs about Strawberry Pound Cake

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh strawberries bring a delightful burst of flavor and texture to your strawberry pound cake, frozen strawberries can work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the batter. This way, you’ll still get that delicious strawberry taste you crave!

How should I store leftover strawberry pound cake?

To keep your strawberry pound cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it for about a week if you're okay with slightly altered texture. Don’t forget to wrap it tightly if you plan to freeze it—this preserves the moistness for a delightful treat later on!

Can I make this cake in advance for an event?

Definitely! You can prepare your strawberry pound cake a day ahead of time. Just allow it to cool completely before storing it, and drizzle with the glaze just before serving. This makes it a perfect, stress-free addition to any gathering or special occasion!

Conclusion on Strawberry Pound Cake

This delightful strawberry pound cake is not only simple to make but also a refreshing treat that will impress your friends and family. With its moist texture and sweet glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy weekend dessert. Give it a try!

Why You Should Try Making This Delicious Dessert

Making this strawberry pound cake at home is an experience that brings joy and deliciousness to your table. Here’s why you won't want to skip this recipe:

One-Bowl Wonder: With fewer dishes to wash, you can focus on the fun part—enjoying the cake!
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries means bursting flavors that really elevate this dessert.
Perfect for Sharing: Serve it at gatherings or give a slice to a friend; everyone loves a good homemade treat!
Versatile: Enjoy it plain or dressed up with whipped cream, ice cream, or even a scoop of fresh fruit.

You can find more inspiration for using fresh strawberries by checking out this article on cooking with seasonal produce. So, gather your ingredients, indulge your creativity, and bake your way to a sweet moment today!