Strawberry Pineapple Pound Cake Recipe: A Southern-Inspired Fruit Dessert

If you’re looking for the best pound cake recipe with a fruity twist, this Strawberry Pineapple Pound Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines classic Southern baking with tropical freshness. Perfect for summer gatherings, Sunday family dinners, holiday tables, or even as a make-ahead dessert, this cake delivers rich flavor and a stunning presentation.

Unlike ordinary cakes, this recipe layers buttery pound cake with ribbons of fresh strawberries and crushed pineapple, then finishes with a glossy strawberry glaze. The result is a moist, dense cake that’s both indulgent and refreshing — the perfect fruit dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Pineapple Pound Cake

Combines the richness of traditional pound cake with the sweetness of fresh fruit.
Ideal for summer desserts, BBQs, and family celebrations.
Easy to make, even if you’re a beginner baker.
Can be customized with different fruits or flavor twists.
Stores well, making it a great make-ahead dessert option.

Ingredients for Strawberry Pineapple Pound Cake

For the Pound Cake

3 cups all-purpose flour
2½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup vegetable oil
5 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract (optional)
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt

For the Strawberry Layer

1½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
½ tsp lemon juice

For the Pineapple Layer

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
2 tbsp brown sugar

For the Strawberry Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp strawberry puree (fresh or jam-based)
1–2 tsp milk, for consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Layers

Strawberries: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until thickened (5–7 minutes). Let cool.
Pineapple: Drain pineapple well. Mix with brown sugar and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or use baking spray with flour.

Step 3: Make the Pound Cake Batter

Cream butter, oil, and sugar until fluffy (3–5 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
Stir in sour cream, vanilla, and almond extract.
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Layer the Cake

Spread ⅓ of the batter in the bundt pan.
Spoon in half the strawberry mixture and half the pineapple mixture.
Add another ⅓ of the batter, followed by remaining fruit.
Top with final ⅓ of the batter. Smooth surface.
Tap pan lightly to release air bubbles.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake for 75–85 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool in pan 15–20 minutes, then invert onto wire rack.
Let cool completely before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with strawberry puree.
Add milk gradually until pourable.
Drizzle over cooled cake. Garnish with fresh strawberries.

Variations for Pound Cake with Fruit

Strawberry Lemon Pound Cake: Swap pineapple for lemon curd, add lemon zest.
Tropical Pound Cake: Mix shredded coconut into pineapple layer.
Cream Cheese Swirl: Add a sweetened cream cheese layer for richness.
Strawberry Shortcake Style: Serve with whipped cream and extra strawberries.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Pound Cake

Always use room temperature eggs and butter for the right texture.
Don’t overmix once flour is added; this keeps the cake tender.
Drain pineapple well to avoid a soggy cake.
Use a serrated knife for clean slices through fruit layers.
This cake tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Serve with coffee or sweet iced tea for a Southern-style treat.
Garnish with mint leaves and fresh strawberries for a party presentation.

Storage and Freezing

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze slices individually, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 servings)

Calories: 510
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 190mg

FAQs About Strawberry Pineapple Pound Cake

Q: Can I use a cake mix instead of scratch pound cake?
Yes! A butter or yellow cake mix works well as a shortcut. Just layer with fruit as directed.

Q: Can I use canned strawberry pie filling?
Yes, but homemade strawberry sauce gives fresher flavor.

Q: Can I bake this in loaf pans?
Yes. Divide batter into 2 loaf pans and bake for 50–60 minutes.

Q: How do I stop fruit from sinking?
Cook fruit mixtures until thick and layer carefully.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Pineapple Pound Cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and comfort. With its buttery base, juicy fruit layers, and stunning glaze, it’s the perfect treat for holidays, cookouts, and family gatherings. Whether served with coffee, tea, or ice cream, this cake is guaranteed to impress and quickly become a family favorite.

Bring sunshine to your dessert table with this easy fruit pound cake recipe and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet strawberries, tropical pineapple, and classic Southern pound cake goodness.