Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze and Crumb Topping
This Strawberry Swirl Pound Cake is a beautiful, moist dessert infused with rich vanilla flavor and a vibrant strawberry swirl. Finished with a simple vanilla glaze and a buttery crumb topping, it’s the perfect balance of elegance and indulgence—ideal for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or whenever you need a slice of sweetness.
Enhanced Ingredients Formatting:
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree (or strawberry jam thinned with water)
- A few drops red food coloring (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instruction Headings for Readability:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a Bundt or tube pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar for 3–4 minutes until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
2. Create the Swirl:
- Pour half the batter into the prepared pan.
- Mix strawberry puree (and food coloring if using) into the remaining batter.
- Pour over the first layer and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Bake for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully.
4. Make the Crumb Topping:
- Combine flour, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir until it resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Prepare the Glaze:
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.
6. Assemble the Cake:
- Drizzle glaze over the fully cooled cake.
- Immediately sprinkle with crumb topping, pressing gently to help it stick.
7. Serve:
- Slice and enjoy with tea, coffee, or fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
Extra Notes:
- Try raspberry, blueberry, or blackberry puree for fruity variations.
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Best served the next day for maximum flavor