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#### Instructions:
##### Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or a standard loaf pan. The cake will need space to rise, so be sure that your chosen pan has enough capacity to hold the batter.
##### Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Using an electric mixer or a stand mixer, beat the butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even mix.
##### Step 3: Add the Sugar
Once the butter and cream cheese are properly creamed, gradually add the granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is well-combined and lightened in texture. This step is essential to creating a soft and moist cake.
##### Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. The eggs help emulsify the mixture and create a smooth batter. After all the eggs have been added, stir in the vanilla extract. If you’re using sour cream, fold it in at this stage.
##### Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and that the baking powder is properly incorporated.
##### Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three batches, alternating with the chopped strawberries (or pureed strawberries if you prefer). Start by adding about one-third of the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed, then add half of the strawberries. Repeat the process until all the ingredients are combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
##### Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (with just a few moist crumbs attached). If the cake starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
##### Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, remove the cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. The cake will firm up as it cools, ensuring a perfect texture when sliced.
Once the cake has cooled, slice and serve. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also dust it with powdered sugar or serve it with whipped cream or fresh strawberries for an extra special touch.
### Tips and Variations for the Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake
– **Strawberry Swirl:** For a marbled effect, swirl in pureed strawberries just before baking. This creates beautiful streaks of strawberry throughout the cake.
– **Frozen Strawberries:** If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries. Be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
– **Glaze:** A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk (or lemon juice) can be drizzled over the top for an extra sweet touch.
– **Add-ins:** For added texture, you can stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
### Conclusion
The Soft & Moist Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the sweet, fresh flavor of strawberries. It’s the perfect cake for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a holiday gathering, or simply a treat for yourself. The moist, tender crumb, coupled with the burst of strawberry flavor, makes this cake a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
By following the step-by-step instructions, using high-quality ingredients, and adding your personal touch, you’ll create a cake that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a classic yet unique dessert, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the perfect choice. Enjoy!
