Delicious Strawberry Pound Cake Perfect for Any Celebration
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team
Springtime always makes me think of fresh strawberries, and nothing captures that sunny sweetness quite like a Strawberry Pound Cake. The moment I slice into this moist, fluffy masterpiece, I am greeted by the vibrant pink hue and the rich aroma of ripe strawberries wafting through the kitchen. It s a delightful treat that can turn any ordinary day into a special occasion.
One rainy afternoon, while pondering what to bake, a lingering craving for something fruity drew me to my pantry. With a pint of fresh strawberries beckoning, I decided it was time for a cake that showcases their natural charm. This isn t just any pound cake; it s a delicious blend of buttery richness and berry brilliance, glazed with a luscious strawberry infusion that elevates each slice.
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dessert, this Strawberry Pound Cake has become a staple at my table. Give it a whirl, and I promise you ll find yourself relishing every sweet, velvety bite. Let s dive into this simple yet stunning recipe that s sure to impress!
Why is Strawberry Pound Cake a Must-Try?
Moist and Fluffy: This cake s delightful texture comes from the perfect balance of butter and buttermilk.
Bursting with Flavor: Fresh strawberries infuse every bite, elevating this cake to new heights of fruity goodness.
One-Bowl Wonder: Simple mixing means less cleanup, so you can focus on enjoying your sweet creation.
Versatile Delight: Ideal for parties, picnics, or a special family dessert, it s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant pink glaze adds a stunning touch that makes this cake equally lovely on your table and Instagram feed.
For more fruity inspirations, don t miss my Berry Bliss Muffins that are sure to impress!
Strawberry Pound Cake Ingredients
Get ready to create a deliciously fruity masterpiece!
For the Cake
- Fresh strawberries a must-have for a vibrant flavor and beautiful glaze.
- Unsalted butter gives the cake its rich and moist texture; ensure it s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and creates a lovely crumb; don t skip this!
- Large eggs they help bind the ingredients together; room temperature eggs mix in better.
- All-purpose flour provides structure; make sure to sift it for a lighter cake.
- Salt enhances all the other flavors; just a pinch goes a long way.
- Baking soda helps the cake rise and achieve the perfect texture.
- Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang; if you don t have any, regular milk can work too with a splash of vinegar.
- Vanilla extract classic flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.
- Strawberry extract (optional) intensifies the strawberry flavor if you re craving an extra kick.
- Red food coloring (optional) enhances the cake s lovely pink hue; a little goes a long way!
For the Glaze
- Strawberry puree reserved from the cake to create a fresh and flavorful glaze.
- Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the glaze; essential for that perfect drizzle.
- Vanilla extract adds depth and warmth to the glaze; a lovely echo of the cake itself.
- Lemon or lime juice adds a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
Now that you have your Strawberry Pound Cake ingredients ready, let s get baking!
How to Make Strawberry Pound Cake
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Prepare the Strawberries: Remove the stems from the strawberries and wash them thoroughly. Blend until smooth, setting aside 2 tablespoons of the puree for later use in the glaze.
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Thicken the Puree: In a small pot over medium heat, pour in the strawberry puree. Reduce it for about 15-20 minutes until you have ½ cup of thickened puree, then let it cool to room temperature.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325 °F (163 °C) while you prepare a 12-cup Bundt pan using your preferred nonstick method, such as greasing and flouring or baking spray.
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Beat the Butter and Sugar: In a mixer bowl, cream the butter on high for 2 minutes. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating for an additional 4 minutes, until the mixture is fluffy and light in color.
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Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition while scraping the sides of the bowl. Lower the mixer speed and gradually blend in the sifted flour in two increments. Add salt and baking soda, mixing carefully to avoid overbeating.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Add in the buttermilk, cooled strawberry puree, vanilla extract, strawberry extract (if using), and food coloring (if desired). Mix until just combined for a luscious batter.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 70-80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate.
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Make the Glaze: Once the cake is at room temperature, whisk together the reserved strawberry puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon or lime juice until smooth but still pourable.
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Adjust the Consistency: Check the glaze s thickness by letting it run off a spoon. If it s too thin, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, stir in more juice until you reach your desired consistency.
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Glaze the Cake: Spoon the glaze over the cooled cake and allow it to set for 10 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Pound Cake
Room Temperature: Keep your Strawberry Pound Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness. Enjoy it as a delightful dessert or snack!
Fridge: If you want to extend its life, store the cake in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure it s well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake (without glaze) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back its buttery goodness, perfect for more indulgent moments!
Strawberry Pound Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Strawberry Pound Cake with these exciting twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously inclusive cake.
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Sugar Substitute: Use coconut sugar or a sugar alternative for a healthier version, maintaining the sweetness and flavor.
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Intense Strawberry Flavor: Boost the natural strawberry goodness by folding in finely chopped strawberries into the batter for a delightful texture. Each slice will burst with fruity goodness!
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Nutty Surprise: Stir in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch that perfectly complements the softness of the cake.
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Zesty Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of grated lemon or lime zest to the batter for a bright citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a mouthwatering chocolate-strawberry combination that s bound to impress!
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Cream Cheese Swirl: Create a delightful cream cheese layer by mixing 8 oz of cream cheese with 1/3 cup of sugar and 1 egg, then swirl it into the batter before baking.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising hint of heat that enhances the sweetness in a surprisingly delightful way.
With these variations, your Strawberry Pound Cake will always have a fresh twist, making each occasion feel special!
Tips for the Best Strawberry Pound Cake
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Choose Ripe Strawberries: Select sweet, ripe strawberries for the best flavor infusion; avoid overripe or mushy ones as they can alter the cake s texture.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter in your Strawberry Pound Cake.
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Don t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the proper 325 °F (163 °C); even a few degrees can affect baking time.
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Glaze Consistency: Make sure to achieve a pourable consistency for your glaze test it by letting it drizzle off a spoon; it should hold its shape but still flow nicely.
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Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool properly in the pan before inverting; this prevents breaking and gives you a perfect slice every time.
What to Serve with Strawberry Pound Cake?
Creating a memorable meal is easy when you know how to pair dishes that complement one another perfectly!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that enhances the cake s sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the fruity cake, creating a delightful dessert duo.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries for a tart crunch that refreshes the palate and celebrates the strawberry theme.
- Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade brings a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the cake, making it a perfect afternoon refreshment.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over slices creates an indulgent twist, blending rich cocoa flavors with strawberry bliss.
- Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea adds a lovely herbal note, making each bite of cake feel lighter and more refreshing.
- Greek Yogurt: A scoop of tangy Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast, enhancing the cake s flavors while adding a nutritious touch.
- Fruit Salad: A bright and vibrant fruit salad complements the cake, offering a medley of textures and flavors that brighten up each bite.
- Pavlova: The light and airy pavlova pairs well with the cake s density, making a delightful layered dessert option for special occasions.
- Sparkling Water: Light, refreshing sparkling water is the ideal drink to cleanse the palate between bites of rich, fruity cake.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Pound Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and storing them separately in an airtight container, while the wet ingredients can be combined and refrigerated. For the strawberry puree, make it up to 3 days ahead and keep it sealed in the fridge to maintain freshness. When you re ready to bake, simply mix the components together and follow the baking instructions. Remember to check the batter for consistency after sitting overnight if it seems thick, add a dash of buttermilk before baking. This way, you can enjoy a delightful homemade dessert with minimal effort, even on your busiest days!
Strawberry Pound Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right strawberries for my Strawberry Pound Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for berries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mushiness, as these can add unwanted moisture to your cake. The best strawberries for baking are ones that are perfectly ripe, as they provide the sweetest flavor and vibrant color.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Pound Cake?
Very simple! For room temperature storage, place your Strawberry Pound Cake in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want it to last a bit longer, wrap it tightly and store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze my Strawberry Pound Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to avoid freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator, or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if my pound cake comes out dense or heavy?
It happens to the best of us! If your Strawberry Pound Cake turns out dense, one reason may be overmixing the batter. Ensure you mix the ingredients just until combined, as too much mixing can result in a tough texture. Additionally, it s crucial to measure your flour accurately spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife can help avoid adding too much flour!
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. For a dairy-free option, try substituting buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar to mimic the acidity. Your cake will still be delicious and moist!
Can I give leftover Strawberry Pound Cake to my pets?
It s best to avoid that. While strawberries are safe for dogs in moderation, the added sugar from the cake (especially the glaze) is not healthy for them. Instead, consider sharing plain strawberry slices as a treat, which can be a fun and safe option for your furry friends!