Strawberry Crunch Cake
The Strawberry Crunch Cake is a slice of nostalgia wrapped in a deliciously vibrant presentation. I remember the first time I encountered this cake at a summer picnic. The fragrance of strawberries filled the air, and the sight of that beautiful, layered dessert was nothing short of enchanting. It sparked excitement among the guests, and I couldn’t resist but to indulge in a piece. The combination of the soft cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy topping was an absolute delight. It had everyone coming back for seconds and singing its praises. I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen, and now, I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you. One bite of the Strawberry Crunch Cake and you’ll understand why it’s become a family favorite. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a celebration or a simple afternoon treat with tea. Let’s dive in and make something truly special together!
Recipe Snapshot
55 mins
30 mins
25 mins
Medium
350 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
18 g
Food Processor, Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl
Why Try This Strawberry Crunch Cake
1. Irresistible Flavor Combination
The Strawberry Crunch Cake offers an irresistible medley of flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries contrasts beautifully with the creamy frosting, while the crunch from the Oreos adds a delightful texture. Each bite is a perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more.
2. Eye-Catching Presentation
This cake is as lovely to look at as it is to eat. The vibrant pink hue from the strawberries and the contrasting colors of the crunch topping make it a showstopper at any gathering. It instantly draws attention, making it a wonderful centerpiece for dessert tables.
3. Easy to Prepare
Despite its impressive appearance, the Strawberry Crunch Cake is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip this up without stress. It’s great for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs looking for a quick delight.
4. Perfect for Any Season
This cake shines in spring and summer when strawberries are at their best, but it’s also a hit year-round. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply treating yourself, this cake is versatile enough to suit any occasion.
5. Make-Ahead Option
One of the great benefits of the Strawberry Crunch Cake is that it can be made in advance. You can bake it a day before and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just add the topping right before serving for that extra crunch!
6. A Touch of Nostalgia
This cake brings back fond memories of family gatherings and summer picnics. It has a way of connecting generations, with each new batch evoking stories of the past and creating new memories for the future. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of togetherness.
Strawberry Crunch Cake Shopping List
When preparing the Strawberry Crunch Cake, the ingredients come together harmoniously to create a delightful dessert. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture. You’ll want to gather your fresh strawberries, rich cream cheese, and crunchy Oreos to create this masterpiece.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 package (6 ounces) strawberry Jello, just the powder
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon Morton kosher salt
- 10 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 10 golden Oreos, separated with cream middles removed (use only the crunchy cookie portion)
- 1½ cups freeze-dried strawberries
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Making Strawberry Crunch Cake
Creating the Strawberry Crunch Cake is a delightful process that brings joy to your kitchen. With a few simple steps, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Follow along as we make this wonderful cake!
- Preheat your oven to 350° F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set it aside, ensuring your cake will come out perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat ½ cup unsalted butter until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in 1 cup granulated sugar and beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
- Crack in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for that lovely aroma.
- Pour in 1 cup whole milk and the 1 package (6 ounces) strawberry Jello powder. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a vibrant batter.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon Morton kosher salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the cake batter into the prepared pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake should rise and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for the next steps!
- For the frosting, beat 10 ounces cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth. Add in ½ cup powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, mixing until everything is creamy.
- To make the crunch topping, place the 10 golden Oreos and 1½ cups freeze-dried strawberries in a Ziplock bag. Crush them gently with a rolling pin or kitchen mallet. If you prefer, use a food processor to achieve a crumbly texture.
- In a medium bowl, drizzle 5 tablespoons unsalted butter over the crushed mix and stir until evenly combined.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Sprinkle the crunch topping over the frosting, lightly pressing it in.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the cake to set beautifully.
- For the best crunch, add the topping just before serving, and enjoy your delightful creation with fresh strawberries on the side!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use fresh strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries will give the best flavor. Look for ones that are bright red and fragrant.
- Let it cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- Chill before serving: Chilling the cake enhances the flavors and helps the frosting set better.
- Experiment with flavors: You can try different flavors of Jello or add a splash of lemon juice for a tart twist.
Tips and Tricks about Strawberry Crunch Cake
To master the art of making the Strawberry Crunch Cake, here are some essential tips that will elevate your baking game. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cake is a hit!
- Storage: It’s best to store the cake in the fridge, covered, for up to three days. This keeps the frosting fresh and tasty.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake without the frosting for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Serving suggestion: Serve the Strawberry Crunch Cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Decorating: Consider topping with additional fresh strawberries or mint leaves for an extra pop of color.
- Variations: You can switch up the crunch topping by using other cookies or nuts for a different texture.
Pairing Suggestions for Strawberry Crunch Cake
When it comes to serving the Strawberry Crunch Cake, there are plenty of delightful options to consider. This cake is versatile and can fit perfectly into any occasion.
- Perfect for parties: This cake is a fantastic choice for birthdays, picnics, or summer barbecues. Its vibrant colors and flavors are sure to impress your guests.
- Pair with beverages: A refreshing glass of lemonade or sweet iced tea complements the fruity notes of the cake beautifully.
- Seasonal fruit pairings: Alongside the cake, consider serving a fruit salad with seasonal fruits for a well-rounded dessert experience.
- Light lunches: Serve slices of the cake with a light salad for a delightful lunch option, mixing sweet and savory.
- Special occasions: It’s a great dessert for holidays like Easter or Mother’s Day, celebrating flavors of spring.
- Storage tips: Keep any leftovers stored in the fridge to maintain freshness. Just cover it well to prevent drying out.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Strawberry Crunch Cake is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will surely impress anyone who tries it. Its delightful crunch and vibrant strawberry flavor make it a standout dessert for any occasion. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it!
Strawberry Crunch Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350° F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set it aside, ensuring your cake will come out perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat ½ cup unsalted butter until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in 1 cup granulated sugar and beat until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
- Crack in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for that lovely aroma.
- Pour in 1 cup whole milk and the 1 package (6 ounces) strawberry Jello powder. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a vibrant batter.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon Morton kosher salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the cake batter into the prepared pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake should rise and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for the next steps!
- For the frosting, beat 10 ounces cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth. Add in ½ cup powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, mixing until everything is creamy.
- To make the crunch topping, place the 10 golden Oreos and 1½ cups freeze-dried strawberries in a Ziplock bag. Crush them gently with a rolling pin or kitchen mallet. If you prefer, use a food processor to achieve a crumbly texture.
- In a medium bowl, drizzle 5 tablespoons unsalted butter over the crushed mix and stir until evenly combined.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Sprinkle the crunch topping over the frosting, lightly pressing it in.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld and the cake to set beautifully.
- For the best crunch, add the topping just before serving, and enjoy your delightful creation with fresh strawberries on the side!
Notes
- Tip 1: The cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
