Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake

Imagine a cake that combines the tangy sweetness of strawberries with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all wrapped in a perfectly moist bundt cake. This Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake is just that—a dreamy dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! With layers of strawberry cake, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a glossy pink glaze, it’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want to impress. Let’s dive into this layered masterpiece!

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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake 🍓

This cake is a show-stopping treat that brings together the best of both worlds light, fruity strawberry cake and rich, creamy cheesecake. It’s visually stunning, with a pop of pink color, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. By using a boxed cake mix and enhancing it with fresh strawberry puree, you get all the flavor without the fuss, and the cheesecake filling adds an irresistible layer that makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix – Using a boxed mix saves time and guarantees a soft, moist cake with vibrant strawberry flavor.
• 1 cup water – Adds moisture to the cake batter.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 3 large eggs – Adds structure and richness.
• 1 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen) – Intensifies the strawberry flavor and gives the cake a beautiful pink color.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – The creamy star of the cheesecake filling.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake layer.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the filling.
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (optional) – Adds little bursts of strawberry in the cheesecake layer.

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Forms the base of the glaze, creating a sweet, smooth finish.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Thins the glaze to a pourable consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the glaze.
• Pink food coloring (optional) – Gives the glaze a fun pink hue to match the strawberry theme.

Step-by-Step Instructions 🍰

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Set the Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when the batter is prepared.
2. Prepare the Bundt Pan: Grease and flour a bundt pan generously. This step ensures the cake won’t stick, and it will come out with a beautiful shape.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. This helps create a creamy, luscious filling.
2. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. This mixture should be smooth and thick.
3. Fold in Strawberries (Optional): For extra strawberry flavor and texture, fold in the chopped strawberries. Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Cake Batter

1. Combine Cake Mix and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the strawberry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix Until Just Combined: Using a hand mixer or whisk, blend the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This ensures the cake will be light and fluffy.
3. Layer the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it out evenly to create a smooth layer.

Step 4: Add the Cheesecake Filling

1. Spoon the Cheesecake Filling Over the Batter: Carefully spoon the cheesecake filling over the strawberry cake batter in the bundt pan. Try to keep the filling in the center, without letting it touch the sides of the pan.
2. Add the Remaining Cake Batter: Pour the remaining strawberry cake batter over the cheesecake filling, covering it completely. This layer will keep the cheesecake filling in the middle of the cake as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 45-50 Minutes: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the cake (avoiding the cheesecake filling) comes out clean.
2. Cool in the Pan: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Invert the Cake: Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

1. Mix the Glaze Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add Food Coloring (Optional): Add a few drops of pink food coloring if you’d like a vibrant pink glaze to complement the cake.
3. Adjust the Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

1. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the bundt cake. Let it cascade down the sides for a beautiful presentation.
2. Allow the Glaze to Set: Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing, so it stays in place when you cut the cake.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Cut generous slices to reveal the stunning layers of strawberry cake and cheesecake filling. Each bite is creamy, fruity, and wonderfully sweet!

Tips for Success 🌟

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature. This helps the batter and filling blend smoothly, avoiding lumps.
• Avoid Overmixing: For a tender cake, mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense.
• Cheesecake Filling Placement: Keep the cheesecake filling in the center without touching the sides. This ensures the filling remains in the middle, giving you that perfect layered look.
• Let the Cake Cool Completely: Before glazing, ensure the cake is completely cooled. This prevents the glaze from melting or becoming too thin.

Flavor Variations

• Lemon Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cake batter for a refreshing hint of citrus.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of a pink glaze, drizzle the cake with melted chocolate for a fun twist.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Replace the glaze with a cream cheese-based glaze for a richer, tangier topping.

Serving Ideas 🍓

This Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake is delicious on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, here are some serving ideas:

• Fresh Strawberries: Serve with fresh strawberries on the side for added color and flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light, creamy contrast.
• Strawberry Sauce: Drizzle strawberry sauce over each slice for an extra burst of berry goodness.

Storage and Freezing Instructions 🍰

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cheesecake filling makes it necessary to keep the cake chilled.
• Freeze: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions 🤔

1. Can I use a homemade strawberry cake mix?
   Absolutely! A homemade strawberry cake mix would work beautifully if you prefer a scratch-made option.
2. Can I make this in a different pan?
   While a bundt pan gives the best presentation, you can bake this in a regular cake pan or as cupcakes. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. How do I keep the cheesecake layer from sinking?
   Make sure to pour half of the batter first, then carefully layer the cheesecake filling in the middle. This helps the cheesecake stay in the center as it bakes.

A Slice of Strawberry Bliss 🎂

This Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake is the ultimate dessert for strawberry lovers. It’s creamy, fruity, and has a gorgeous presentation that’s bound to impress. With its tender strawberry cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and pretty pink glaze, it’s a dessert that’s as joyful to look at as it is to eat. Enjoy every delicious bite! 🍓🍰✨