Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is the kind of dessert that wins hearts — rich, tender, full of real strawberries, and infused with velvety cream cheese. Whether you’re baking for a spring brunch, a holiday table, or just a sweet weekday treat, this cake brings comfort and elegance in every bite.

What makes this the best Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake? It’s that flawless balance of dense pound cake tradition and soft, moist texture from the cream cheese. The vanilla-kissed batter wraps around fresh, sliced strawberries, giving each slice bright pops of berry flavor. And with a prep-to-plate time of just over an hour, it’s a surprisingly easy recipe even beginner bakers can master.

If you’ve been searching for an easy Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake recipe, you just found your new go-to. Let’s walk through exactly how to bake it right — and make it even better than you imagined.

Top Reasons This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake Is a Keeper

• 🍓 Fresh Strawberry Flavor in Every Slice — No artificial flavor, just real berries.
• 🧈 Incredibly Moist Crumb — Thanks to the perfect butter-to-cream cheese ratio.
• 🔁 Versatile Recipe Base — Make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or holiday-themed with easy swaps.
• 🍰 Dense Yet Tender Texture — A bakery-style finish right from your home oven.
• 🎉 Ideal for Holidays or Special Events — Gorgeous on a dessert table, easy to transport.
• 🕒 70-Minute Total Time — From mixing to cooling, it’s a quick yet impressive bake.
• ❄️ Freezer-Friendly — Keeps beautifully for later indulgence or surprise guests.
• 👶 Kid-Approved & Family-Friendly — Simple ingredients and flavors everyone loves.
• 💡 Beginner Baker Approved — Foolproof method with forgiving results.
• 🍋 Bright Flavor Add-Ons — Easily jazz it up with lemon zest or almond extract.
• 🧁 Amazing With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream — Dessert done right.
• 📱 Mobile-Ready Steps — Bake confidently with clear, short steps perfect for phone users.

Print

Everything You Need for This Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Optional Add-Ins / Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 GF flour blend (like King Arthur or Cup4Cup).
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute plant-based butter and dairy-free cream cheese.
• Healthier Take: Reduce sugar by ¼ cup or use light cream cheese.
• Flavor Enhancer: Add 1 tsp lemon zest or almond extract.
• Seasonal Twist: Replace strawberries with blueberries or cranberries.
• Kid-Friendly Tip: Add ½ cup mini white chocolate chips.

Easy Steps to Perfect Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Step 1 – Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or loaf pan, making sure every curve and corner is coated.

Step 2 – Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes until light, fluffy, and pale in color.

Step 3 – Add Sugar Gradually

With the mixer on low, slowly stream in the sugar. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed and beat until the mixture looks whipped and airy.

Step 4 – Mix in the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to keep the batter uniform and smooth.

Step 5 – Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet batter, mixing on low until just combined.

Step 6 – Add Vanilla and Fold in Strawberries

Stir in the vanilla extract. Then gently fold in the sliced strawberries using a spatula — don’t overmix or crush the fruit.

Step 7 – Pour and Smooth the Batter

Transfer the batter to your prepared pan. Use a spatula to even out the surface for an even bake.

Step 8 – Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in the center of the oven for 60–70 minutes. If using a loaf pan, start checking at 50 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean.

Step 9 – Cool and Release

Let the cake rest in the pan for 15 minutes. Then invert it gently onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing or glazing.

Step 10 – Optional Glaze or Simple Finish

Mix powdered sugar with milk for a quick glaze, or serve plain to highlight the berries and buttery crumb.

Tips to Elevate Your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

1. Room Temp Everything – Cold eggs or butter = lumpy batter.
2. Don’t Overmix – Especially after adding flour. Gentle folding = tender texture.
3. Dust Strawberries – Lightly toss in flour before folding in to prevent sinking.
4. Sift Flour for Lightness – Especially helpful in humid climates.
5. Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese – No tubs! Use the block-style for structure.
6. Test Doneness Correctly – A few moist crumbs on your toothpick is okay.
7. Tent with Foil if Browning Early – Keeps the top golden, not burnt.
8. Cool Completely – Cutting while warm = crumbly mess. Patience pays off.
9. Lemon Zest = Flavor Bomb – Pairs beautifully with strawberries.
10. Use Good Vanilla – Real extract, not imitation. It matters.
11. Freeze Slices Individually – Easy grab-and-go treat later.
12. Make It Ahead – Improves flavor overnight in the fridge.
13. Double It! – Makes great edible gifts or bake-sale favorites.
14. Glaze While Warm – For that melt-in finish that clings perfectly.
15. Try Toasting a Slice – With butter. Thank us later.

Make It Your Own

Healthy Version

Use reduced-fat cream cheese, less sugar, and whole wheat pastry flour.

Kid-Friendly

Add rainbow sprinkles or swirl in strawberry jam before baking.

Budget-Friendly

Use frozen strawberries (thawed & patted dry) and store-brand cream cheese.

High-Protein Option

Sub ¼ cup almond flour + add a spoon of Greek yogurt to batter.

Spiced Version

Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for cozy depth.

Holiday-Inspired

Top with cranberry glaze and crushed pistachios. Green & red magic!

Dessert-Upgrade

Serve with strawberry compote and vanilla bean ice cream.

Air Fryer Option

Use mini loaf pans and air fry at 300°F for 20–25 mins.

Perfect Pairings

Here’s how to serve your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake like a pro:

• Brunch: Thick slices with Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and mimosas.
• Tea Time: Serve plain with Earl Grey or chamomile tea.
• Dessert: Top with vanilla bean ice cream and strawberry coulis.
• Holiday Table: Add lemon glaze, fresh mint, and powdered sugar for a festive look.
• Picnic: Wrap individual slices in parchment for grab-and-go sweet bites.

❤ Love berries? Don’t miss our Strawberry Cheesecake Bake Recipe, or pair this with Mixed Berry Scone Loaf for the ultimate brunch duo.

What’s Inside: Nutrition Overview

Per serving (1 slice, ~12 servings total):
Calories: 350
Protein: 5g
Carbs: 42g
Fat: 18g

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Microwave for 10 seconds or toast lightly for a warm treat.

Your Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake Questions Answered

1. What makes an old-fashioned strawberry cream cheese pound cake different?

Old-fashioned versions use simple pantry staples, real butter, and full-fat cream cheese — no shortcuts. The texture is denser, with fewer mix-ins, and it’s often baked in a bundt pan. It’s a nostalgic Southern classic known for richness and simplicity.

2. Can I make strawberry cream cheese pound cake using Philadelphia cream cheese?

Yes! Philadelphia cream cheese is ideal — it’s rich, smooth, and gives the pound cake its signature creamy texture. Be sure to use the full-fat block version, not the tub, for best results.

3. What’s the best strawberry cream cheese pound cake recipe for beginners?

Start with a classic recipe that uses simple ingredients like butter, sugar, cream cheese, eggs, and fresh strawberries. Look for versions that don’t require special tools or layering — just mix, bake, and enjoy.

4. Is there a cake mix shortcut for strawberry cream cheese cake?

Yes, you can use a strawberry or white cake mix and blend in softened cream cheese, eggs, and fresh strawberries. It’s a great time-saver and still delivers delicious results with a moist texture.

5. Is this recipe related to the Strawberry Pound Cake from Bath and Body Works?

No — but it smells just as sweet! The Strawberry Pound Cake scent from Bath and Body Works was inspired by real dessert flavors like this one. Our recipe gives you the real thing to taste, not just smell.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Sausage and Egg Casserole Easy Breakfast Bake
• Mint Chocolate Chip Clusters – Easy Dessert Recipe
• Strawberry Crackle Salad – Creamy Dessert Idea.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is more than just a recipe — it’s a beautiful balance of buttery richness, bright strawberries, and creamy depth. Whether you’re baking for your family, a weekend brunch, or a special event, this cake delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

What berries would you use?
Would you glaze or keep it classic?
Drop your twist in the comments — and don’t forget to save or share this one!

Happy baking! 🍓