Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake

#### **For the Strawberry Topping:**
– 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of your strawberries)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to add a little extra zing)

#### **For the Cheesecake Filling (Optional):**
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon milk (or heavy cream)

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### 🥄 How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake

#### Step 1: **Preheat and Prep**
Start by preheating your **oven to 325°F (163°C)**. Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan, or use a non-stick baking spray to ensure the cake comes out easily once baked.

#### Step 2: **Prepare the Pound Cake Batter**
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the **butter** and **cream cheese** using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the **sugar** and continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Next, add the **eggs** one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the **vanilla extract**.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, and **salt**. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the **milk**. Start and finish with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.

#### Step 3: **Bake the Cake**
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about **60-70 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back when touched.

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

#### Step 4: **Prepare the Strawberry Topping**
While the cake cools, prepare the strawberry topping. Slice the **fresh strawberries** and toss them with **sugar** and **lemon juice** (if using) in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices and become slightly syrupy.

#### Step 5: **Make the Cheesecake Filling (Optional)**
For an extra layer of cheesecake flavor, beat together the **cream cheese**, **powdered sugar**, **vanilla extract**, and **milk** until smooth and creamy. This will be the perfect complement to the fresh strawberries on top.

#### Step 6: **Assemble the Cake**
Once the cake has cooled, slice it into generous servings. Spoon the **cheesecake filling** (if using) on each slice, then top with the **sweetened strawberries**. For added flair, garnish with a little extra powdered sugar or a sprig of mint.

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### 💡 Tips & Tricks for the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake

– **For a richer flavor**, swap the milk for **heavy cream** in the cake batter. It will make the cake even more moist and decadent.
– **Customize the topping**: Feel free to swap the strawberries for other fruits, like **blueberries**, **raspberries**, or a **mixed berry** blend, depending on what’s in season.
– **Make it ahead**: You can make this cake a day ahead, as the flavors meld beautifully after sitting for a few hours or overnight.
– **Use fresh strawberries**: While frozen berries can be a good option, fresh strawberries will give this cake the perfect texture and vibrant color.
– **Add a glaze**: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze (mix powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice) over the top of the cake before adding the strawberries.

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### 🍽️ When to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake

– **Spring and Summer Gatherings**: With its fresh fruit topping, this cake is a perfect fit for seasonal celebrations like BBQs, picnics, and garden parties.
– **Holidays**: Serve it during Easter, Mother’s Day, or any festive occasion where you want a sweet treat that looks as good as it tastes.
– **Brunch**: This cake is the perfect addition to a brunch spread, alongside mimosas and other breakfast delights.
– **Special Occasions**: Birthdays, anniversaries, or even a casual family dinner—this cake will add an elegant touch to any event.

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### 🎉 Final Thoughts

This **Strawberry Cheesecake Pound Cake** is the ultimate indulgence for any dessert lover. With its tender, moist texture, rich cheesecake filling, and fresh, juicy strawberries on top, it’s a dessert that balances sweetness with just the right amount of tang. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply enjoying a slice on a quiet afternoon, it’s sure to be a favorite.

So grab those strawberries, preheat your oven, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this heavenly cake. You won’t regret it! 🍰🍓