Immerse yourself in the luscious world of our Strawberry Runny Pound Cake, a delightful creation that marries the richness of pound cake with the succulence of fresh strawberries. Indulge in the sweet symphony of flavors, where each bite reveals a burst of berry bliss. Let’s embark on the journey of creating this irresistible treat together!
Ingredients:
- 250 grams/8.8 oz unsalted butter, room temperature
- 250 grams/8.8 oz (1 cup + 3 tbsp) white granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 300 grams/10.6 oz all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
Instructions:
Preparation Bliss:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or your preferred pound cake pan, ensuring a smooth release.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process takes approximately 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Introduce the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and continue to beat until the ingredients are well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring an even distribution of leavening agents.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the addition of milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix, preserving the pound cake’s tender texture.
Berry Infusion:
- Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold in the diced strawberries into the batter. The strawberries, with their natural juiciness, will release moisture during baking, creating a delightful runny consistency in the pound cake.
Baking Brilliance:
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top for an even finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Begin checking for doneness around 50 minutes, as baking times may vary.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the pound cake sets perfectly.
Optional Sweet Finale:
- Glaze or Dusting: Once cooled, you have the option to elevate your pound cake with a simple powdered sugar glaze drizzle or a dusting of powdered sugar. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the cake’s presentation.
Serving Bliss:
- Serve: Slice and serve this delectably moist and strawberry-infused pound cake to captivate your taste buds and those of your lucky guests.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Fresh Strawberry Selection: Opt for ripe and juicy strawberries for the best flavor and moisture in your pound cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and well-incorporated batter.
- Gentle Folding Technique: When folding in the strawberries, use a gentle folding motion to retain the berries’ integrity and distribute them evenly.
Variations:
- Citrus Twist: Add a hint of citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a citrusy infusion that complements the strawberries.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture and nutty flavor.
FAQs:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
- While fresh strawberries are recommended for their natural juiciness, you can use frozen strawberries, ensuring they are thawed and excess moisture is drained.
2. Can I freeze the pound cake?
- Yes, you can freeze the pound cake for up to three months. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to preserve freshness.
3. Can I reduce the sugar for a lighter version?
- Yes, you can adjust the sugar quantity according to your preference, keeping in mind it might affect the sweetness and texture of the cake.
Enjoy the irresistible charm of our Strawberry Runny Pound Cake, a perfect union of buttery richness and vibrant berry freshness. Whether served as a dessert centerpiece or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this pound cake is a celebration of flavors. Happy slicing and savoring.