Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze

The Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze is a delightful treat that brings the sweet taste of summer to any occasion. Perfect for celebrations, brunches, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, this cake stands out with its moist texture and vibrant pink glaze. The combination of fresh strawberries and buttermilk creates a rich flavor profile that makes every bite memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious cake without any fuss.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The pink glaze adds a stunning finish, making it perfect for special occasions.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the buttermilk and strawberry puree, this pound cake stays moist and flavorful.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it as a birthday cake, a sweet treat at gatherings, or an afternoon snack.
• Fresh Flavor: Using pureed strawberries elevates the taste and keeps it refreshing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt or tube pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt or tube pan: This specific pan shape helps achieve even baking, resulting in a beautifully formed cake.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
• Whisk: Essential for combining dry ingredients evenly and ensuring no lumps remain in the batter.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup pureed fresh strawberries (about 1 cup strawberries, hulled and mashed)
• A few drops of pink food coloring (optional, for extra color)

For the Pink Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh strawberry puree (strained to remove seeds if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• A few drops of pink food coloring (optional)

How to Make Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl:
1. Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time:
1. Beat well after each addition.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine the buttermilk and the strawberry puree.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Mixtures

Gradually add both mixtures:
1. Alternately add the flour mixture and the buttermilk-strawberry mixture to the batter.
2. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.

Step 7: Add Food Coloring

If desired:
1. Add a few drops of pink food coloring for extra vibrancy.
2. Gently fold it into the batter.

Step 8: Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan:
1. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool

Cool in the pan:
1. Let it cool for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

How to Make Pink Glaze

Step 10: Prepare Glaze

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency with more puree or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 11: Drizzle Over Cake

If desired:
1. Add pink food coloring for vibrancy.
2. Drizzle glaze over cooled cake and let set before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze!

How to Serve Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze

Serving your Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a tea party, or just a casual family dessert, here are some delightful ways to enjoy it.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries Galore: Serve alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
• Citrus Slices: Add slices of oranges or lemons to enhance the cake’s sweetness and refresh the palate.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• Classic Topping: A dollop of whipped cream complements the cake’s moisture and adds a light, airy texture.
• Flavored Options: Try flavored whipped creams like vanilla or strawberry for an extra touch.

Add Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: This timeless pairing provides a creamy contrast to the pound cake.
• Strawberry Sorbet: For a fruity twist, serve with strawberry sorbet that echoes the flavors in the cake.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Assorted Treats: Include slices of the pound cake on a platter with cookies, brownies, and other desserts for variety.
• Cheese Board Addition: Integrate it into a cheese board alongside soft cheeses and honey for a unique sweet-savory balance.

How to Perfect Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze

To achieve the best results when making your Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups instead of scooping directly to avoid dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to ensure your pound cake remains light and fluffy.
• Test for Doneness Early: Check the cake 5-10 minutes before the minimum baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Let the cake cool fully before adding glaze for an even coating that sets perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake can enhance its flavors and create a delightful spread. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to complement the sweet cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing contrast that balances sweetness.
3. Chilled Lemonade: This tangy drink refreshes the palate, making it perfect for warm days alongside dessert.
4. Herbed Salad: A light salad with greens and herbs provides a savory counterpoint to the sweet pound cake.
5. Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy side offers texture and flavor that pairs well with dessert during gatherings.
6. Roasted Nuts: A bowl of lightly salted nuts adds crunch and richness that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can sometimes be tricky, especially with a delicious recipe like Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the texture of your cake. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before mixing.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cake dense. Use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale for accuracy.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until combined, especially when adding the flour mixture and buttermilk-strawberry mixture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan is crucial for easier removal. Don’t rush this step; let it sit for 15 minutes before inverting.
• Using stale baking soda: Old baking soda won’t give your cake the lift it needs. Check its freshness by adding a little vinegar; if it fizzes, it’s good to use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Slice the cake for quicker cooling and serving.

Freezing Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze lighter?

To make your pound cake lighter, ensure you don’t overmix once you add the flour. Also, using room temperature ingredients helps create a fluffier texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before pureeing.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make buttermilk by mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into one cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using.

How long does it take to bake Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze?

Bake the cake at 325°F (163°C) for about 70-80 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Buttermilk Pound Cake with Pink Glaze is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding other fruits or adjusting sweetness levels. It’s perfect for any occasion—give it a try!