Pound Cake Without the Pound of Ingredients
Get a healthier, and tasty, strawberry pound cake recipe without the pound of ingredients that weigh the cake’s nutritional value down.
Tips & Tricks on Making Strawberry Pound Cake Recipe
Here are some tips and tricks for making pound cake with plant-based ingredients:
Use the right plant-based fats
Instead of butter, use solid plant-based fats like coconut oil, vegetable shortening, or vegan butter. These fats will help create the desired texture and richness in the pound cake.
Choose the right plant-based/nut milk
Opt for plant-based milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. These milk alternatives work well in baking and provide moisture to the pound cake.
Adjust the sweetness
Plant-based sweeteners like cane sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup can be used instead of refined white sugar. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
Add flavor extracts
Enhance the flavor of your pound cake by adding plant-based extracts such as vanilla extract, almond extract, or lemon zest. These will give your pound cake a delightful aroma and taste.
Choose the right flour
All-purpose flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour works well for pound cakes. You can also experiment with gluten-free flour blends if you prefer.
Don’t overmix the batter
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough pound cake. It’s okay if there are a few lumps in the batter.
Grease and flour the pan
To ensure easy removal of the pound cake from the pan, grease it well with plant-based oil or vegan butter and lightly dust with flour. This will prevent sticking and help the cake maintain its shape.
Bake at the right temperature
Follow the recipe instructions for baking temperature and time. Pound cakes usually require a longer baking time at a lower temperature to ensure even baking and a golden crust.
Cool the cake properly
Once the pound cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the cake from breaking or crumbling.
Remember, baking with plant-based ingredients may require some experimentation and adjustments. Don’t be afraid to try different variations and flavors to find what works best for you. Enjoy the process and have fun creating delicious plant-based pound cakes!
Strawberry Pound Cake
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract (optional)
- 6 strawberries
Instructions
Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a loaf pan.
Combine
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup coconut sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- In a separate bowl, combine the almond milk, melted coconut oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Mix well.1 cup unsweetened almond milk, 1/2 cup melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the pound cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glaze
- To make the strawberry glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and strawberry extract (if using) until smooth and creamy.1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk, 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract (optional)
- Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can also decorate it with extra fresh strawberries if desired.6 strawberries
Baking Pound Cake FAQ
What is pound cake?
Pound cake is a classic cake recipe that originated in Europe. It is called “pound cake” because the traditional recipe called for a pound each of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. Pound cake is known for its dense and rich texture.
Can I make a vegan pound cake?
Yes, you can make a vegan pound cake by substituting traditional ingredients like butter and eggs with plant-based alternatives. You can use ingredients like coconut oil or vegan butter as a replacement for butter, and options like applesauce or mashed bananas as an egg substitute.
How can I achieve a tender and moist pound cake?
To achieve a tender and moist pound cake, it’s important to cream the fat (butter or vegan butter) and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture. Be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Can I add flavor variations to my pound cake?
Absolutely! Pound cake is versatile, and you can add various flavors to customize it to your liking. You can add extracts like vanilla, almond, or citrus zest to enhance the flavor. Additionally, you can incorporate mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added texture and taste.
How should I store pound cake?
Pound cake can be stored at room temperature, tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container, for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze pound cake slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I make pound cake in advance?
Yes, pound cake can be made in advance. In fact, its flavor often improves over time as it develops more moisture. You can bake the pound cake a day or two in advance and store it properly to maintain its freshness.
Can I make gluten-free pound cake?
Yes, you can make gluten-free pound cake by using gluten-free flour blends or specific gluten-free flours like almond flour, rice flour, or a combination of gluten-free flours. Be sure to follow a reliable gluten-free pound cake recipe for best results.
How can I prevent my pound cake from sticking to the pan?
To prevent sticking, it’s important to properly grease and flour your pan before pouring in the batter. You can use cooking spray or brush the pan with melted butter or oil, then dust it with flour or cocoa powder. Additionally, using a parchment paper liner can help with easy removal.
Can I make pound cake in different shapes or sizes?
While the traditional pound cake is typically baked in a loaf pan, you can experiment with different shapes and sizes. Pound cake batter can be baked in Bundt pans, round cake pans, or even made into cupcakes. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time accordingly.
