Ever wondered how a dessert can take you back to childhood summers? The easy strawberry crunch cake recipe does just that. It combines the flavors of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars in a stunning treat. This cake, made with moist strawberry and vanilla white cake, is topped with a crunchy mix of Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries.
This quick strawberry crunch cake is great for any occasion. Whether you’re a novice baker or love making sweet treats, this cake is perfect. It only takes 30 minutes to make and is sure to impress everyone with its beauty and taste. Get ready to bake a cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The recipe takes about 30 minutes of hands-on time.
- This strawberry crunch cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- The crunch topping maintains its texture best when served fresh but can be adjusted for batch sizes.
- The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- This dessert yields 12 servings and has a caloric value of 680 kcal per serving.
- Delicious combinations of flavors come together in this easy strawberry crunch cake, perfect for all occasions.
What is Strawberry Crunch Cake?
Strawberry crunch cake is a sweet treat that mixes strawberries with a buttery crunch. It’s inspired by classic strawberry desserts but with a twist. Its texture and look make it perfect for summer or special events.
A Brief History of Strawberry Desserts
Strawberry desserts have been loved for a long time, especially in America. They started with strawberries in pies and tarts. Over time, new recipes emerged, like the strawberry crunch cake.
This cake puts strawberries in the spotlight. It celebrates their taste and offers a rich experience.
Why Strawberry Crunch Cake is a Crowd Favorite
Strawberry crunch cake is loved for its mix of flavors and textures. The strawberry cake and crunchy topping are a hit. It’s great for birthdays and barbecues, loved by kids and adults alike.
The cake’s bright color and taste make it irresistible. Everyone wants more of this strawberry dessert.
Key Ingredients for Your Strawberry Crunch Cake
To make a tasty strawberry crunch cake, you need the right ingredients. You can choose to make them from scratch or use pre-made items. Knowing what you need makes baking easier.
Essential Ingredients
The cake needs a strawberry and white cake mix for flavor and looks. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
- Two whole eggs and one egg white
- 1/3 cup of flour mixture
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/3 cup of flour mixture (for finishing)
- Vanilla extract for flavor
This mix makes the cake light and fluffy, perfect for every bite.
Why Use Boxed Cake Mix?
Boxed cake mix makes baking easy. It saves time by eliminating the need to measure dry ingredients. A strawberry cake mix adds color and sweetness, ideal for strawberry desserts. It’s great for beginners or those short on time, keeping the cake’s taste intact.
Choosing Fresh Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are key for this cake. They add sweetness and color that frozen can’t match. Choose ripe, firm strawberries for the best flavor. They make the cake taste better and look great, important for any dessert.
How to Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe
Making a homemade strawberry crunch cake is fun and easy. Follow this guide for a great baking experience. Your dessert will be delicious and look amazing. Each step is simple and helps make the cake special.
Step 1: Baking the Strawberry and White Cake Layers
Begin with a strawberry cake mix. Mix it with 1-1/2 cups of sugar, two whole eggs, and one egg white. This makes the cake pink and pretty. Bake at 350°F for 28 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick is clean. For cupcakes, bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Let the cakes cool before icing.
Step 2: Preparing the Buttercream Frosting
The buttercream frosting makes the cake even better. Soften butter, add powdered sugar, and a bit of vanilla extract. Whip for 2 to 3 minutes until fluffy. You can add strawberry puree for extra flavor.
Step 3: Making the Strawberry Crunch Topping
The crunchy topping adds texture and taste. Pulse Golden Oreos, 1 ounce of freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until crumbly. This topping contrasts nicely with the cake. Sprinkle it over the cake.
This step-by-step strawberry crunch cake recipe can be made up to 24 hours in advance. It’s perfect for impressing your guests!
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | Less than 1 hour |
| Baking Time | 28-30 minutes (cake), 20-22 minutes (cupcakes) |
| At Room Temperature | Up to 2 days |
| In Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
| Serving Yield | 24 cupcakes |
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | 346 kcal, 40g carbs, 5g protein, 18g fat |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Strawberry Crunch Cake
Making your simple strawberry crunch cake is easy and fun. Follow these steps to get a delicious cake that will wow everyone.
Mixing and Baking the Cakes
First, heat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix one 15.25 oz box of white cake mix, two whole eggs, one egg white, oil, water, and strawberry gelatin. This mix will make your cake light pink and full of strawberry flavor. Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and divide the batter evenly.
Bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Assembling the Cake Layers
After the cakes cool, take them out of the pans. Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a lot of frosting made from cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract on top. Put the second layer on top and frost again.
This step is key for a beautiful cake.
Frosting and Topping the Cake
After stacking, frost the whole cake for a smooth look. For the topping, mix 18-20 Golden Oreo cookies with freeze-dried strawberries or Nilla Wafers. Press the topping gently into the frosting.
By following these steps, you’ll have a stunning cake for 16 people, perfect for any event.
Serving and Enjoying Your Strawberry Crunch Cake
When serving your Strawberry Crunch Cake, how you present it matters a lot. A few simple steps can make your dessert a stunning centerpiece at any event.
Presentation Tips
Top your frosted cake with fresh strawberries. Add decorative piping of buttercream around the edges. These touches make the cake look even more appealing. Putting the cake on a decorative stand can also make it stand out.
Pairing Suggestions: Best Drinks and Sides
Pair your Strawberry Crunch Cake with refreshing drinks and tasty sides. Iced tea, lemonade, and sparkling wine are great choices. Serving vanilla ice cream with the cake is also a good idea. It balances the sweetness and brings out the strawberry flavor, making it a perfect dessert.
| Drink | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Iced Tea | Refreshing and slightly sweet |
| Lemonade | Tart and invigorating |
| Sparkling Wine | Crisp and celebratory |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Rich and creamy |
Storage Tips for Strawberry Crunch Cake
Keeping your Strawberry Crunch Cake fresh is key to enjoying its taste and texture. Learning how to store your cake right can make it last longer. This way, you can savor every slice, whether it’s for now or later. Here are some important tips to keep in mind.
How to Store Your Cake Properly
For freshness, put leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure the container is tight to avoid drying out.
Freezing and Thawing Guidelines
Freezing your strawberry crunch cake is a great way to keep it fresh for longer. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and cover it with aluminum foil. This way, it can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it at room temperature.
Remember, the crunchy topping might not stay as crunchy after freezing.
If you want to learn more about baking, check out this guide. Always keep in mind that proper storage is crucial for keeping your cake’s flavors and textures intact.
Variations of Strawberry Crunch Cake
Exploring different strawberry crunch cake variations is fun. You can try new flavor combinations and toppings. This way, you can make a dessert that fits your taste or any special occasion.
Different Flavor Combinations
Try swapping traditional ingredients for something new. Use raspberry or lemon cake mixes for a unique taste. Adding fruits like blueberries or peaches to the topping is a fun surprise.
You can even make mini cakes. Layer them with flavored jello for amazing color and taste.
Alternative Toppings and Frostings
Be creative with frostings to make your cake better. Try whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for a sweet contrast. Mixing crushed nuts with the strawberry topping adds crunch and flavor.
Why You Should Try This Easy Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe
This easy strawberry crunch cake recipe is perfect for any celebration. It looks great and tastes amazing. It’s a fantastic choice for your dessert table, whether it’s a birthday or a holiday dinner.
Perfect for All Occasions
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can make the cake layers and frosting ahead of time. Then, refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to serve. This is great for busy days, making it ideal for any event.
Approved by Family and Friends
Family and friends love this cake. They enjoy the mix of fresh strawberries and crunchy topping. It’s a hit at gatherings, making memories and boosting your baking reputation.
Conclusion
The delicious strawberry crunch cake is more than a dessert. It’s a highlight for any event. It combines sweet strawberries with a crunchy texture. This impresses everyone with its taste and looks.
This cake is easy to make, perfect for beginners or pros. It’s made with simple ingredients like fresh strawberries and Golden Oreos. You can also add your own twist with different toppings.
Make sure to chill your cake well for the best taste and look. This recipe is a great addition to your dessert collection. It’s perfect for any special moment.
Start baking with this recipe and watch it become a favorite. It’s loved for its taste and the happiness it brings. For more baking fun, try this great recipe to keep your skills sharp.
F.A.Q
What makes strawberry crunch cake so special?
Strawberry crunch cake is a mix of strawberry tastes and textures. It reminds us of old strawberry desserts. The cake has moist strawberry and white layers, topped with a crunchy mix of Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries. It’s a treat for both kids and adults.
Can I use fresh strawberries in the cake?
Yes! Adding fresh strawberries makes the cake taste better and look great. You can mix them into the batter or use them as a topping to show off their sweet flavor.
How do I store leftover strawberry crunch cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and foil and freeze it.
Can I make changes to the recipe ingredients?
Absolutely! This cake recipe is easy to customize. Try different cake mixes like raspberry or lemon. You can also use different fruits for the topping. Try whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for a new taste.
Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?
Yes! This cake is perfect for beginners. It uses boxed mixes and simple steps. It’s great for anyone, whether you’re new to baking or have some experience.
What drinks pair well with strawberry crunch cake?
Pair the cake with drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling wine. These drinks bring out the strawberry flavor and make for a wonderful dessert experience.
How do I achieve the best texture for the crunch topping?
For the best crunch topping, blend Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until crumbly. Adding melted butter helps the topping stick to the frosting and adds crunchiness.
