When two desserts come together, magic happens. The rich, buttery texture of a pound cake meets the creamy indulgence of cheesecake in this Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake. Every slice is a dreamy combination of moist cake, a luscious cheesecake layer, and a strawberry-kissed frosting that makes this dessert perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to impress.
This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a showstopper. The fresh strawberries add a burst of fruity sweetness, while the cream cheese frosting ties everything together with a silky finish. If you’ve been looking for a cake that feels bakery-worthy but can be made at home, this recipe is exactly what you need.
Why This Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake Stands Out
Strawberry cakes come in many forms, but this version shines because it combines multiple textures and flavors in one. Here’s what makes it unique:
- Triple delight – buttery pound cake, creamy cheesecake, and fruity frosting.
- Homemade elegance – perfect for special occasions but easy enough for everyday bakers.
- Fresh strawberries inside and out – enhancing flavor and appearance.
- Versatile presentation – serve it plain, with extra berries, or as a centerpiece dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This cake has three components: the pound cake base, the cheesecake layer, and the strawberry cream cheese frosting.
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup strawberry puree (fresh or blended strawberries)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a Bundt or round cake pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. A heavy pan works best for even baking.
Making the Pound Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key for a tender cake.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This creates a smooth base.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually alternate between adding the dry mixture and heavy cream to the butter mixture. Begin and end with dry ingredients.
- Stir in vanilla extract and gently fold in diced strawberries.
Preparing the Cheesecake Layer
In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and lump-free. This will be the middle layer of your cake.
Layering the Cake
- Pour half of the pound cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly on top of the batter.
- Add the remaining pound cake batter, making sure the cheesecake layer is fully covered.
Baking the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The slow bake ensures the cheesecake sets and the cake stays moist. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing.
Making the Strawberry Frosting
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Blend in strawberry puree and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Frosting and Decorating
Once the cake has cooled, spread the strawberry cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Garnish with fresh strawberries or even a drizzle of strawberry glaze for extra flair.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake
- Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps the batter blend smoothly, preventing lumps.
- Don’t overmix: Once the flour is added, stir gently to avoid a dense cake.
- Dry strawberries slightly: If your strawberries are very juicy, pat them dry before folding into the batter to prevent excess moisture.
- Cool completely before frosting: Warm cake will melt the frosting.
- Choose the right pan: A heavy Bundt or tube pan ensures even baking.
Storage and Freezing
This cake is rich, so you may have leftovers. Luckily, it stores beautifully.
- Refrigerator: Keep covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Frosting storage: Extra frosting can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and used for cupcakes or cookies.
Serving Suggestions
This pound cake can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Serve slices with extra fresh strawberries.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Dress it up for celebrations with edible flowers or a white chocolate drizzle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from sinking?
Make sure your pound cake batter is thick enough before layering. Spreading it evenly helps support the cheesecake filling.
Can I use a loaf pan instead of a Bundt pan?
Yes, but you may need to divide the batter into two loaf pans and adjust the baking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, but heavy cream gives the richest texture.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the cake (avoiding the cheesecake layer). If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
Can I make the frosting less sweet?
Yes, reduce the powdered sugar to 3 cups and add a little more cream cheese for a tangier finish.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration in every bite. The buttery richness of the pound cake, the creamy cheesecake surprise, and the strawberry frosting combine to create a treat that’s indulgent yet refreshing. Whether you’re baking it for a birthday, family gathering, or just to satisfy a craving, this cake is sure to impress.