Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe will undoubtedly steal the spotlight at your next gathering. Combining a luscious cheesecake layer with moist strawberry cake, this dessert is finished off with a rich cream cheese frosting and a delightful crunchy topping. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration, this cake impresses with its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: The combination of cheesecake and strawberry cake provides a flavor experience that’s hard to resist.
• Visually Stunning: With its layers and colorful topping, this cake is as beautiful as it is tasty.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive look, the steps are straightforward and manageable for bakers of any level.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or a simple family dessert, this cake fits right in.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the flavors and toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Crunch Cake, having the right kitchen tools is essential. These tools will help you mix, bake, and assemble your delicious creation seamlessly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Stand mixer or electric handheld mixer
• 9-inch round cake pans
• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Stand mixer or electric handheld mixer: Makes mixing batter easy and ensures ingredients are well combined.
• 9-inch round cake pans: The perfect size for even baking of your cake layers.
• 9-inch springform pan: Ideal for cheesecakes as it allows easy removal without damaging the delicate layers.

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 36 vanilla sandwich cookies, (coarsely crushed)
• 3 ounce box strawberry gelatin mix
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, (melted)
• 5 to 6 drops red food color gel
• 16.5 ounces box Strawberry Supreme cake mix
• 3 large eggs, (room temperature)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, (melted (1 stick))
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 3 ounces box strawberry gelatin mix
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 16 ounces cream cheese, (softened)
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, (room temperature)

For the Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, (softened)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter, (softened (1 stick))
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Crumbs

• Divide the coarsely crushed cookies into two small mixing bowls.
• Pour one of the 3-ounce boxes of dry strawberry gelatin mix over one bowl of cookie crumbs and stir to combine.
• Pour 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter over the plain cookie crumb bowl and mix well.
• Add 5 to 6 drops of red food coloring gel into the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter; stir until mixed. Pour this over the gelatin crumb mixture and stir well to evenly distribute color.

Step 3: Bake the Crumbs

Evenly sprinkle both bowls of cookie crumbs onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes. Allow them to cool completely while you prepare the cakes.

Step 4: Prepare Cake Pans

Generously spray two 9-inch round cake pans with baker’s spray (Baker’s Joy) and set aside.

Step 5: Mix Cake Batter

In a medium-sized mixing bowl using a stand mixer or electric handheld mixer, add together:
1. Strawberry Supreme cake mix,
2. Eggs,
3. Melted unsalted butter,
4. Whole milk,
5. Strawberry gelatin mix.

Mix on medium speed until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.

Step 6: Bake Cake Layers

Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared pans. Bake for 24 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Leave the oven on for baking the cheesecake next.

Step 7: Cool Cakes

Let cakes cool completely on a cooling rack before removing them from their pans. Set them aside once cooled.

Step 8: Prepare Cheesecake Layer

Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and cornstarch; set aside.

Step 9: Assemble Springform Pan

Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, then generously spray it with nonstick spray; set aside.

Step 10: Mix Cheesecake Filling

In another mixing bowl using a stand mixer or electric handheld mixer on medium-high speed, cream together:
1. Cream cheese,
2. Heavy cream,
3. Vanilla extract.

Reduce speed to low, adding eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Gradually add in sugar and cornstarch mixture while keeping mixer on low speed until smooth.

Step 11: Bake Cheesecake Layer

Pour cheesecake batter into prepared springform pan and bake at 325 degrees for about 40 minutes. After this time, turn off oven but let cheesecake sit inside for an additional 20 minutes without opening door.

Step 12: Cool Cheesecake

Remove cheesecake from oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about half an hour. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and place in freezer for approximately one hour.

Step 13: Make Frosting

Using either stand or handheld mixer in another medium-sized bowl on medium-high speed, cream together:
1. Cream cheese,
2. Heavy cream,
3. Unsalted butter for about one-and-a-half to two minutes until fluffy.

Lower mixer speed to low while slowly adding vanilla extract then gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time until mixture is smooth.

Step 14: Assemble Cake Layers

On your serving plate, center one strawberry cake layer.
* Scoop out about 1/4 cup of frosting onto center of bottom layer; smooth evenly using an offset spatula.

Carefully remove cheesecake from freezer:
1. Run sharp knife along inside edge then release sides of springform pan.
2. Turn cheesecake upside down onto wax paper-lined flat plate before flipping it right side up onto bottom layer.

Scoop out another 1/4 cup frosting over cheesecake layer before placing second strawberry layer on top.

Step 15: Frost & Decorate

Spread remaining frosting over top of cake without concern for crumbs showing through—cookie crumbs will cover these imperfections nicely!

Break cooled cookie crumbs into smaller pieces then sprinkle atop finished cake while gently pressing them onto sides as desired.

Enjoy serving this beautiful Strawberry Crunch Cake at your next event!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Crunch Cake is not only a showstopper but also versatile in how you can serve it. Whether for a birthday party, family gathering, or simply a delightful dessert, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your presentation.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own to highlight its beautiful layers and textures.

A la Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with the strawberry cake and cheesecake layers.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh strawberries or mixed berries on top. This adds a burst of freshness and color to your serving.

Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the cake.

Layered Parfait

• Crumble leftover cake into glasses, layer with whipped cream and berries for an elegant parfait-style dessert.

Picnic Style

• Cut smaller squares for easy serving at picnics or potlucks. Place them in cupcake liners for a fun touch.

How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

Achieving the perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake requires attention to detail and patience. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Do Not Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Cool Completely Before Assembly: Ensure both cakes and cheesecake layers are completely cool before assembling to avoid melting frosting.
• Chill Cheesecake Properly: Allow the cheesecake enough time in the freezer; this helps it set properly and makes it easier to cut.
• Experiment with Frosting Flavors: Try adding different extracts like almond or coconut for unique flavor variations in the frosting.
• Decorate Creatively: Use colorful sprinkles or edible flowers along with cookie crumbs to enhance visual appeal when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

To complement your Strawberry Crunch Cake, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes that enhance flavors without overshadowing the dessert.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that adds brightness without being overly sweet.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda paired with nuts for a savory contrast.
3. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy yet indulgent side option.
4. Lemon Sorbet: A light, tart sorbet cleanses the palate between bites of rich cake.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These add an elegant touch while keeping with the strawberry theme.
6. Pecan Pie Bars: Offer a different dessert experience while complementing the flavors of your strawberry crunch cake.
7. Mini Quiches: A savory option that balances sweetness with rich, cheesy goodness.
8. Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to dessert’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the cake layers and cheesecake to cool completely is essential. This prevents melting and ensures a clean slice.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for your ingredients. Using too much or too little can alter the cake’s texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too long can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and better mixing.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature Accuracy: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s set correctly for even baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Strawberry Crunch Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before adding frosting or cookie crumbs.

Reheating Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the cake slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat. Cover with a lid for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe unique?

This recipe combines creamy cheesecake with moist strawberry cake, topped with crunchy cookie crumbs, creating an unforgettable dessert experience.

Can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add fresh strawberries between layers or use different flavored cake mixes to suit your taste.

How do I prevent my cheesecake layer from cracking?

Ensure you don’t overbake the cheesecake and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door closed to minimize temperature changes.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist on this classic dessert.

How should I serve my Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe?

This delicious cake is perfect as a centerpiece for parties or special occasions. Serve chilled with whipped cream on top!

Conclusion

The Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is not only visually stunning but also packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!