The Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that combines moist cake, creamy frosting, and a crunchy topping made from graham crackers, strawberry Jello, and freeze-dried strawberries.
It’s incredibly delicious with its sweet and tangy strawberry flavor balanced by the rich, creamy frosting.
I made this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe because it’s a perfect way to celebrate the fresh, vibrant taste of strawberries in a fun and unique way.
This cake is incredibly delicious, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures. It’s ideal for special occasions such as birthdays, family gatherings, or holiday parties.
You might make Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe when you want to impress guests with a beautiful, festive dessert that stands out.
Anyone with a love for strawberry-flavored treats will enjoy it kids, adults, and dessert lovers alike. Inspired by the joy of sharing a tasty cake, it’s a great choice for celebrations!
What Does Strawberry Crunch Taste Like?
Strawberry crunch cake is a delightful explosion of textures and tastes! The cake itself is vanilla-flavored and fluffy, while the strawberry filling is sweet and tart with a fresh berry punch.
The real star is the crumb topping. It’s buttery, brown sugar-y, and adds a satisfying crunch with every bite. It all comes together to create a dessert that’s perfectly balanced and incredibly delicious.
How To Prepare Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe?
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Yield:14 servings
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- 9×13 baking pan
- Whisk or spatula
- Small saucepan (optional, for melting butter)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (or 2 cups homemade strawberry cake flour)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup strawberry Jello (instant)
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries (chopped)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for consistency)
Instructions
1. For the Cake:
➤ Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter, or line it with parchment paper.
➤ Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and well combined.
➤ Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
2. For the Crunch Topping:
➤ Prepare the Crunch Topping: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, strawberry Jello powder, and chopped freeze-dried strawberries. Stir well until everything is fully coated and mixed together.
➤ Set Aside: Set the crunch mixture aside while you prepare the frosting.
3. For the Frosting:
➤ Make the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and continue beating until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake:
➤ Frost the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting over the entire cake.
➤ Top with Crunch: Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the frosting layer, pressing it down gently to make sure it sticks.
➤ Serve: Slice into squares and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!
Special Notes
❖ Fresh Strawberries: While freeze-dried strawberries work wonderfully in the crunch topping, fresh strawberries can be added for extra flavor. Feel free to garnish the cake with fresh strawberry slices for a vibrant look.
❖ Substitutions: If you prefer a healthier version, you can swap out the cream cheese frosting with a lighter whipped cream frosting or even a vegan version.
Nutritional Information Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 calories |
| Fat | 20 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 50 grams |
| Protein | 7 grams |
| Sodium | 250mg |
Expert Tips For Successful Cake Baking:
1. Always use the correct measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients. Too much or too little can affect the texture and flavor.
2. Ensure ingredients like butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. They blend more easily and help create a smooth batter.
3. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid overdeveloping the gluten, which can make the cake dense.
4. Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even cooking from the start.
5. Grease your cake pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, and consider lining the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
6. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when inserted into the center.
7. Let your cake cool completely before adding frosting. If it’s too warm, the frosting will melt and slide off.
Best Serving Experience
When I serve the Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe, I always enjoy seeing the reactions of my guests. I slice it generously, making sure each piece gets that perfect combination of cake, frosting, and crunchy topping.
Personally, I love adding fresh strawberry slices on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. It’s always a hit at gatherings, and I’ve even paired it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those who want a little extra indulgence.
I find the cake tastes best when chilled, letting all the flavors meld together perfectly!
How To Make With More Delicious
To make strawberry crunch cake Recipe even more delicious, try these tips:
1. Enhance the Strawberry Flavor: Use ripe, juicy strawberries for maximum flavor. You can also add a bit of strawberry extract to the cake batter for an extra boost.
2. Add Layers of Flavor: Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers for added sweetness and moisture.
3. Boost the Crunch: Increase the amount of crushed cornflakes in the topping for an even crunchier texture. You can also mix in chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added flavor and texture.
4. Experiment with Frosting: While the traditional recipe doesn’t call for frosting, you can add a layer of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream between the layers for extra indulgence.
5. Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce: Serve each slice with a drizzle of homemade strawberry sauce for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
Storage & Make Ahead
This Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe stores wonderfully for a few days. I usually keep it in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve its freshness and prevent the crunch topping from softening.
If I want to make it ahead of time, I’ll prepare the cake and frosting a day or two before serving, then assemble it and add the crunch topping the day of.
This way, the cake stays fresh, and the topping remains crispy. It’s always a time-saver and ensures a delicious dessert when I need it!
More Strawberry Cake Recipes You’ll Love
Strawberry Coconut Cake – Tropical Flavor
Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe – Summer Delight
Boxed Strawberry Cake Recipe || Bake It Quick
Homemade Strawberry Cake with Jello Recipe
Strawberry Cookies Cake Mix || Bake and Enjoy
Homemade Strawberry Crumb Cake Recipe
Conclusion
Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is a scrumptious and visually striking dessert that’s sure to impress. With its moist strawberry-flavored cake, crunchy topping, and smooth frosting, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Whether for a birthday, holiday, or casual gathering, this cake is perfect for any occasion. It’s an easy-to-make treat that anyone with a sweet tooth can enjoy.
From kids to adults, the vibrant pink layers and irresistible crunch make it a favorite. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to share, the Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is an excellent choice that will leave everyone coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I store leftover strawberry crunch cake?
Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze strawberry crunch cake?
Yes, you can freeze strawberry crunch cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
What can I use instead of strawberries?
You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches.
Can I use a cake mix for strawberry crunch cake?
Yes, you can use a cake mix as a shortcut. Simply follow the instructions on the box and add the crunchy topping as directed.
How do I make the crunchy topping?
The crunchy topping is made with a mixture of crushed cookies, such as shortbread or graham crackers, combined with melted butter and sugar.
Can I make strawberry crunch cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make strawberry crunch cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipes
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- 9×13 baking pan
- Whisk or spatula
- Small saucepan (optional, for melting butter)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix or 2 cups homemade strawberry cake flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup strawberry Jello instant
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries chopped
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz package cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream optional, for consistency
Instructions
For the Cake:
- ➤ Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter, or line it with parchment paper.
- ➤ Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- ➤ Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
For the Crunch Topping:
- ➤ Prepare the Crunch Topping: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, strawberry Jello powder, and chopped freeze-dried strawberries. Stir well until everything is fully coated and mixed together.
- ➤ Set Aside: Set the crunch mixture aside while you prepare the frosting.
For the Frosting:
- ➤ Make the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and continue beating until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
- ➤ Frost the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting over the entire cake.
- ➤ Top with Crunch: Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the frosting layer, pressing it down gently to make sure it sticks.
- ➤ Serve: Slice into squares and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!