Strawberry Pound Cake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For The Cake

01 - 1 pint of fresh strawberries (reserve some for the glaze)
02 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
03 - 3 cups granulated sugar
04 - 5 large eggs, at room temperature
05 - 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1 cup buttermilk
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 - 2 teaspoons strawberry extract (optional)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)

→ For The Glaze

12 - 2 tablespoons of reserved strawberry puree
13 - 2 cups powdered sugar
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or lime juice

# Instructions:

01 - Clean and remove the stems of the strawberries. Blend them in a food processor or blender until smooth. Keep 2 tablespoons of the puree aside for later use.
02 - Heat the strawberry puree in a small pot over medium heat. Allow it to reduce for about 15-20 minutes until it thickens to about 1/2 cup. Let it cool to room temperature.
03 - Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 12-cup Bundt pan with your preferred nonstick method. Using a mixer, beat the butter on high for 2 minutes, then slowly add the sugar and continue beating for another 4 minutes until the mixture is soft and fluffy.
04 - Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Then gradually add the sifted flour in two parts. Blend in the salt and baking soda, but avoid overmixing.
05 - Fold in the buttermilk, cooled strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and optional strawberry extract or food coloring. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
06 - Transfer the batter to the prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a plate to cool completely.
07 - Combine the reserved 2 tablespoons of strawberry puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon or lime juice in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Adjust the thickness with additional powdered sugar or juice as needed.
08 - Pour the glaze over the cooled cake and allow it to set for about 10 minutes. Slice and serve.

# Notes:

01 - This vibrant strawberry pound cake is perfect for any celebration or as a treat for yourself.
02 - The reduced strawberry puree enhances the flavor, while the glaze provides a delightful sweetness.