Name: Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Pound Cake:; Pound Cake mix; ¼ cup butter; 2 eggs; ⅔ cup milk; 1 tsp lemon juice; ⅓ cup Raspberry Fruit Spread; 6 drops red food coloring; For Frosting:; 8 oz cream cheese; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice

This delightful copycat Starbucks raspberry swirl pound cake brings the beloved café treat right to your kitchen. With its moist and tender crumb, vibrant raspberry swirls, and tangy cream cheese frosting, it's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common, but you might need to pick up raspberry fruit spread and red food coloring if they're not staples in your pantry. The pound cake mix can be found in the baking aisle, and the cream cheese and powdered sugar are usually in the dairy and baking sections respectively.

Ingredients For Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake

pound cake mix: A convenient base for the pound cake, providing structure and sweetness.

butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.

eggs: Provide structure and stability to the cake batter.

milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.

lemon juice: Adds a subtle tang and enhances the flavor of the cake.

raspberry fruit spread: Provides a sweet and tart raspberry flavor for the swirl.

red food coloring: Optional, but it enhances the visual appeal of the raspberry swirl.

cream cheese: Forms the base of the creamy, tangy frosting.

powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and provides a smooth texture.

One reader, Filip Burleson says:

This copycat Starbucks raspberry swirl pound cake recipe is a delightful treat! The cake is moist and flavorful, with a perfect balance of raspberry and lemon. The cream cheese frosting adds a deliciously creamy finish. A must-try for any dessert lover!

Filip Burleson

Techniques Required

How to grease and flour a loaf pan: Grease the pan with butter or non-stick spray, then add a small amount of flour and shake it around until the entire surface is coated. Tap out any excess flour.

How to mix cake batter: Combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix until just combined. Then, beat on medium speed for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the batter is smooth and well-incorporated.

How to alternate batter layers: Pour a layer of white batter into the pan, followed by a layer of red batter. Continue alternating until all the batter is used, creating a swirl effect.

How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done baking.

How to beat cream cheese frosting: Beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon juice, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

How to spread frosting: Use a spatula to evenly spread the frosting over the cooled loaf, ensuring a smooth and even layer.

How To Make Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake

Try our copycat raspberry swirl pound cake that tastes exactly like the one served at Starbucks! You only need a boxed mix and raspberry spread!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Pound Cake:

Pound Cake mix,(1 box)
¼cupbutter,softened
2eggs
⅔cupmilk
1tsplemon juice
⅓cupRaspberry Fruit Spread,seedless
6dropsred food coloring,optional

For Frosting:

8ozcream cheese,softened
1cuppowdered sugar
1tsplemon juice

Instructions

Pound Cake:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Mix the cake mix, butter, milk, and eggs until just combined. With the mixer on medium, beat for an additional 2 minutes.
Remove ⅓ of the batter and stir in the raspberry spread and food coloring (if using).
Add the lemon juice to the white batter and stir.
Starting with the white batter, alternate the layers of red and white.
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

Frosting:

Beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and lemon juice, beating until smooth and creamy.
Spread over the cooled loaf.

Nutrition

Calories: 542.58kcal
Fat: 34.31g
Saturated Fat: 19.66g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.00g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.74g
Carbohydrates: 52.89g
Fiber: 0.30g
Sugar: 46.30g
Protein: 7.57g
Cholesterol: 176.92mg
Sodium: 265.69mg
Calcium: 122.75mg
Potassium: 188.75mg
Iron: 0.76mg
Vitamin A: 357.67µg
Vitamin C: 3.33mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

To achieve a perfect swirl in your pound cake, use a skewer or knife to gently drag through the batter after layering the red and white batters. This will create a beautiful marbled effect without over-mixing the colors.

How to Save Time on Making This Pound Cake

Use pre-made pound cake mix: Save time by using a pound cake mix instead of making the batter from scratch.

Soften butter quickly: Cut the butter into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for faster softening.

Microwave lemon juice: Microwave the lemon for 10 seconds to get more juice out quickly.

Layer batter efficiently: Use a large spoon or ice cream scoop to alternate layers of batter quickly and evenly.

Quick cooling: Place the cake on a wire rack to cool faster before frosting.

Pre-soften cream cheese: Leave the cream cheese out while the cake bakes to soften it for the frosting.

Substitute Ingredients For Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe

pound cake mix - Substitute with homemade pound cake batter: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, eggs, and milk to make a homemade batter. This allows for more control over the ingredients and can be tailored to taste.
¼ cup butter - Substitute with ¼ cup margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct substitute for butter in most baking recipes, providing a similar texture and flavor.
2 eggs - Substitute with ½ cup unsweetened applesauce: Applesauce can replace eggs in baking, adding moisture and a slight sweetness without altering the flavor significantly.
⅔ cup milk - Substitute with ⅔ cup almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a non-dairy alternative to regular milk, maintaining the same consistency and moisture level.
1 tsp lemon juice - Substitute with 1 tsp apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and can help activate baking soda or powder in the recipe.
⅓ cup raspberry fruit spread - Substitute with ⅓ cup strawberry fruit spread: Strawberry fruit spread can be used as an alternative, offering a similar texture and sweetness with a different fruit flavor.
6 drops red food coloring - Substitute with 6 drops beet juice: Beet juice provides a natural red color without the use of artificial dyes.
8 oz cream cheese - Substitute with 8 oz Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
1 cup powdered sugar - Substitute with 1 cup coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a less processed alternative to powdered sugar, though it may slightly alter the color and flavor.
1 tsp lemon juice - Substitute with 1 tsp lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a suitable replacement for lemon juice.

Best Way to Present This Delicious Pound Cake

Use a pristine white plate: Choose a large, clean, white plate to make the colors of the raspberry swirl pound cake pop and look more vibrant.
Slice with precision: Cut the pound cake into even, thick slices to showcase the beautiful raspberry swirl pattern inside.
Layer the slices: Slightly overlap the slices in a fan shape to create visual interest and highlight the alternating red and white layers.
Add a dollop of frosting: Place a generous dollop of the cream cheese frosting on top of each slice, allowing it to cascade slightly over the edges.
Garnish with fresh raspberries: Scatter a few fresh raspberries around the plate to enhance the raspberry flavor and add a pop of color.
Drizzle with raspberry coulis: Lightly drizzle a raspberry coulis over the pound cake and plate for added elegance and flavor.
Add a mint sprig: Place a small sprig of fresh mint on top of the frosting for a touch of green and a hint of freshness.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the entire plate with powdered sugar to give it a delicate, refined finish.
Serve with a lemon twist: Add a thin twist of lemon peel on the side of the plate to complement the lemon juice in the pound cake and frosting.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the pound cake at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees F.
9x5-inch loaf pan: The baking pan where the pound cake batter will be poured and baked.
Mixer: Essential for combining the cake mix, butter, milk, and eggs, and for beating the batter to the right consistency.
Mixing bowls: Used to mix the cake batter and to prepare the raspberry swirl mixture.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the milk, raspberry fruit spread, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like lemon juice and food coloring.
Spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and for layering the batter in the loaf pan.
Toothpick: Used to check if the pound cake is fully baked by inserting it into the center of the cake.
Cooling rack: Allows the pound cake to cool completely after baking.
Electric mixer: Used to beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice for the frosting until smooth and creamy.
Spreader knife: Useful for spreading the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled loaf.
Grease brush: Used to grease the loaf pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
Flour sifter: Helps to evenly distribute flour in the loaf pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.

How to Store / Freeze This Pound Cake

Storing Guidelines:
- Allow the pound cake to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
- Wrap the pound cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and moist.
- Place the wrapped pound cake in an airtight container to further protect it from drying out.
- Store the pound cake at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a particularly warm climate, consider refrigerating it to extend its freshness.
- If refrigerated, bring the pound cake to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing Guidelines:
- Ensure the pound cake is completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming.
- Wrap the pound cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn.
- For added protection, place the wrapped pound cake in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.
- Label the package with the date to keep track of its freshness.
- Freeze the pound cake for up to 3 months. Beyond this period, the quality may start to decline.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the pound cake in the refrigerator overnight. For quicker thawing, you can leave it at room temperature for a few hours.
- Once thawed, bring the pound cake to room temperature before serving to restore its delightful texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees f. Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Mix the cake mix, butter, milk, and eggs until just combined. With the mixer on medium, beat for an additional 2 minutes.
Remove ⅓ of the batter and stir in the raspberry fruit spread and food coloring (if using).
Add the lemon juice to the white batter and stir.
Starting with the white batter, alternate the layers of red and white.
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
Beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and lemon juice, beating until smooth and creamy.
Spread over the cooled loaf.

Oven Method:
1. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees f.
2. Slice the pound cake into individual servings.
3. Wrap each slice in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
4. Place the wrapped slices on a baking sheet.
5. Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
6. Carefully unwrap and enjoy your warm, moist raspberry swirl pound cake.
Microwave Method:
1. Slice the pound cake into individual servings.
2. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate.
3. Cover the slice with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
4. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
5. Check the temperature and heat in additional 10-second intervals if needed.
6. Enjoy your quick and easy reheated raspberry swirl pound cake.
Toaster Oven Method:
1. Preheat your toaster oven to 300 degrees f.
2. Slice the pound cake into individual servings.
3. Place the slices directly on the toaster oven rack or a small baking sheet.
4. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid over-toasting.
5. Enjoy the slightly crispy exterior and warm interior of your raspberry swirl pound cake.
Steaming Method:
1. Slice the pound cake into individual servings.
2. Place a steaming rack in a pot with a small amount of water.
3. Bring the water to a gentle simmer.
4. Place the slices on a heatproof plate and set it on the steaming rack.
5. Cover the pot and steam for about 5 minutes.
6. Carefully remove the plate and enjoy your moist and warm raspberry swirl pound cake.
Stovetop Skillet Method:
1. Slice the pound cake into individual servings.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Add a small amount of butter to the skillet and let it melt.
4. Place the slices in the skillet and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until warmed through and slightly toasted.
5. Enjoy the buttery, warm raspberry swirl pound cake with a slight crisp.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this recipe is that the raspberry swirl pound cake combines the tartness of raspberries with the richness of a traditional pound cake, creating a delightful contrast in both flavor and appearance.

Is This Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Economical for Home Cooking?

When considering the cost-effectiveness of this raspberry swirl pound cake, it fares quite well. Using a pound cake mix simplifies the process and reduces costs. Butter, eggs, and milk are common household items, minimizing additional expenses. The raspberry fruit spread and cream cheese are the pricier components, but their quantities are manageable. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12. Given its delightful taste and ease of preparation, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake: Healthy or Unhealthy?

This copycat Starbucks raspberry swirl pound cake recipe leans towards the unhealthy side. The pound cake mix, butter, and sugar-laden raspberry fruit spread contribute to high calorie and fat content. The frosting, made with cream cheese and powdered sugar, adds even more calories and sugar. While the recipe does include some lemon juice, which provides a small amount of vitamin C, the overall nutritional value is low.

Replace the pound cake mix with a homemade version using whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
Substitute butter with a healthier fat like coconut oil or avocado oil.
Use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar-laden raspberry fruit spread.
Opt for fresh or frozen raspberries blended into the batter for a more natural raspberry flavor.
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting or use a sugar substitute like stevia.
Incorporate Greek yogurt into the frosting for added protein and a creamy texture.
Add a handful of chia seeds or flaxseeds to the batter for an extra boost of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of this delightful treat without sacrificing flavor.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic pound cake, incorporating a vibrant raspberry swirl that adds both visual appeal and a burst of fruity flavor. The use of lemon juice in both the batter and frosting provides a refreshing tang that complements the sweetness of the cake and the richness of the cream cheese frosting. While the pound cake mix simplifies the process, the addition of raspberry spread and food coloring ensures a homemade touch. Overall, it's a well-balanced and visually stunning dessert that's sure to impress.

Enhance Your Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted Vegetable Medley: Imagine a colorful array of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted to perfection, drizzled with a hint of olive oil and sprinkled with herbs. The savory and slightly caramelized flavors will beautifully contrast the sweet and tangy notes of your raspberry swirl pound cake.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken pieces marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, then grilled to a golden brown. These skewers add a savory protein element that complements the citrusy undertones of the pound cake.

Berry Spinach Salad: Berry Spinach Salad: A refreshing mix of spinach, strawberries, blueberries, and goat cheese, tossed with a light balsamic vinaigrette. This salad offers a burst of freshness and a touch of acidity that pairs wonderfully with the rich, creamy frosting of the cake.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. The warm, comforting flavors of the soup provide a delightful contrast to the cool, creamy texture of the pound cake.

Citrus Fruit Salad: Citrus Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of oranges, grapefruits, and kiwis, lightly drizzled with a honey and mint dressing. The bright, tangy flavors of the citrus fruits will enhance the lemony notes in the pound cake, creating a harmonious balance.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Pound Cake

Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake: A delightful twist on the classic pound cake, this recipe combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the sweet burst of blueberries. Perfect for a summer dessert or a refreshing treat any time of the year.

Strawberry Shortcake: This timeless dessert features layers of fluffy shortcake, fresh strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream. It's a simple yet elegant way to celebrate the sweetness of summer fruits.

Orange Creamsicle Pound Cake: Inspired by the classic ice cream treat, this pound cake is infused with the bright and tangy flavors of orange and creamy vanilla. A nostalgic dessert that will transport you back to childhood.

Chocolate Marble Pound Cake: A rich and decadent dessert, this pound cake features swirls of chocolate and vanilla batter, creating a beautiful marbled effect. Perfect for chocolate lovers and special occasions.

Cranberry Orange Loaf: A festive and flavorful loaf, combining the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy zing of orange. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter treat.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses for This Pound Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The cheese melts into a creamy, flavorful filling that perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a satisfying crunch. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette brushed with olive oil. Top them with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Elevate your dinner table with a creamy and indulgent Chicken Alfredo. Start by preparing a rich alfredo sauce with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic. Toss in perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta and tender grilled chicken breasts. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Delight your taste buds with a classic Beef Stroganoff. Begin by sautéing thinly sliced beef in a hot pan until browned. Create a luscious sauce using sour cream, beef broth, and mushrooms. Add a touch of Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor. Serve this hearty dish over a bed of egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Top with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Why trust this Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, combining the rich texture of pound cake with the vibrant taste of raspberry fruit spread. The addition of lemon juice adds a refreshing twist, while the cream cheese frosting provides a creamy finish. With easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients, this recipe ensures a delicious outcome every time. Trust in the simplicity and reliability of this recipe to recreate a Starbucks favorite at home.

Want to recreate this delightful Starbucks treat at home? Head over to our Baking and Desserts forum section and share your experience with this Copycat Starbucks Raspberry Swirl Pound Cake Recipe!

FAQ:

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to grease and flour your loaf pan thoroughly. You can also use parchment paper for extra insurance.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of raspberry fruit spread?

Fresh raspberries might add too much moisture to the batter. It's best to stick with the fruit spread for the right consistency and flavor.

Do I have to use red food coloring?

No, the food coloring is optional. It just gives the raspberry swirl a more vibrant color.

How do I know when the pound cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before spreading it over the cooled cake.