Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that will steal the show at any gathering. With its layers of creamy cheesecake, moist strawberry cake, and sweet cream cheese frosting, it’s a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or family celebrations, this cake combines flavors and textures that leave everyone wanting more. The crunchy cookie topping adds a unique twist, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of strawberry cake and cheesecake creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Stunning Presentation: The layered design and colorful topping make this cake visually appealing.
• Versatile Occasion: Suitable for birthdays, holidays, or any special event where you want to impress.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can create a bakery-quality dessert at home.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves 13 people, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. These kitchen tools will help you assemble your Strawberry Crunch Cake with ease.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer or electric handheld mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Springform pan
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Stand mixer or electric handheld mixer: Provides consistent mixing speed for perfectly blended batter and frosting.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Ensures even baking of your cake layers for a beautiful finish.
• Springform pan: Allows easy removal of your cheesecake without damaging its shape.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Crumble Topping

• 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

For the Strawberry Cake Layers

• 16.5 ounces box Strawberry Supreme cake mix
• 3 large eggs, (room temperature)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, (melted (1 stick))
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3 ounces box strawberry gelatin mix

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 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 Cookie Crumble Topping

• Divide the coarsely crushed cookies into two small mixing bowls.
• In one bowl, pour one box of dry strawberry gelatin mix over the cookie crumbs and stir to combine.
• Pour two tablespoons of melted unsalted butter over the plain cookie crumb bowl and mix well.
• In the second bowl, drop 5 to 6 drops of red food coloring gel into the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Stir to mix well. Pour this tinted melted butter over the gelatin crumb mixture and stir until evenly colored.
• Evenly sprinkle both bowls of cookie crumbs onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Allow them to cool completely while preparing the cakes.

Step 3: Prepare Cake Layers

Preheat your oven again to 350°F if needed. Generously spray two 9-inch round cake pans with baker’s spray and set them aside.

Using either a stand mixer or an electric handheld mixer in a medium-sized mixing bowl:
1. Combine the cake mix, eggs, melted unsalted butter, whole milk, and strawberry gelatin mix.
2. Mix all ingredients on medium speed until smooth and well incorporated.

Evenly divide the batter between the prepared round cake pans:
1. Bake for 24 to 28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Leave the oven on as you prepare for baking the cheesecake layers afterward.

Allow each cake layer to cool completely on a cooling rack before removing them from their pans.

Step 4: Prepare Cheesecake Layer

Reduce your oven temperature to 325°F.

In a small mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together granulated sugar and cornstarch; set aside.

Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper:
1. Generously spray it with nonstick spray; set aside.

Using your stand mixer or electric handheld mixer on medium-high speed:
1. Cream together softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Reduce mixer speed to low; add eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
3. Slowly add in granulated sugar and cornstarch while keeping on low speed.
4. Increase speed back to medium; mix until smooth.

Pour cheesecake batter into springform pan:
1. Bake at 325°F for about 40 minutes.
2. Turn off oven but keep cheesecake inside for an additional 20 minutes without opening the door.

After cooling on a rack for about half an hour:
1. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for at least one hour before assembling your final cake layers.

Step 5: Prepare Frosting

Using either your stand mixer or handheld mixer:
1. Beat together softened cream cheese, heavy cream, unsalted butter on medium-high speed for about 1½ to 2 minutes; scrape down sides often.
2. Lower speed; gradually add vanilla extract followed by powdered sugar one cup at a time until fully combined.
3. Increase speed back up until frosting is smooth.

Step 6: Assemble Cake Layers

On your serving plate:
1. Center one layer of strawberry cake; scoop out about ¼ cup frosting onto center of this layer—smooth out evenly using an offset spatula or silicone spatula without worrying about crumbs showing through initially.
2. Remove chilled cheesecake from freezer—run knife along edges then release springform sides carefully.
3. Place wax paper-lined plate atop cheesecake—turn upside down securely removing base & parchment paper carefully flipping back upright onto frosted bottom layer of strawberry cake.

Repeat by adding another scoop of frosting atop now placed cheesecake layer followed by placing second strawberry cake layer gently on top before applying remaining frosting evenly across entire structure—again not worrying about visible crumbs underneath since coating will hide imperfections nicely!

Finish by breaking cooled cookie crumbs into smaller pieces sprinkling them generously over top surface patting gently against sides as desired! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Final Touches

Slice up portions enjoying all flavors mingled together creating unforgettable memories around dessert table!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

Serving the Strawberry Crunch Cake is an experience in itself. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply a sweet treat for family, this cake will delight everyone. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert presentation.

Individual Cake Slices

• Serve slices on decorative plates for a classic presentation that showcases the layers and colors of the cake.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Pair each slice with fresh strawberries on the side. This adds freshness and enhances the strawberry flavor of the cake.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Add a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on top of each slice for a creamy contrast to the cake’s texture.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over each piece can add richness and visual appeal.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Top each slice with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing flavor boost.

In Dessert Shooters

• Layer small pieces of cake, frosting, and cookie crumbs in shot glasses for an elegant and fun presentation.

How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

Perfecting your Strawberry Crunch Cake can make all the difference in taste and presentation. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cakes.
• Cool Completely: Allow both the cake layers and cheesecake to cool completely before assembling. This prevents melting the frosting and ensures stability.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cakes are done. It should come out clean; overbaking can dry out the cake.
• Decorate Thoughtfully: When frosting, don’t worry about crumbs showing through; they will be hidden by cookie crumbs added on top later.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the assembled cake for at least an hour helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

To complement your Strawberry Crunch Cake, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with its sweetness without overpowering it.

1. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the cake’s rich flavors.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats echo the flavors in your cake while adding an elegant touch.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy yet indulgent side option.
5. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites can provide an additional creamy contrast to your main dessert.
6. Panna Cotta: This Italian dessert offers a silky texture that pairs beautifully with strawberry flavors.
7. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars add crunchiness that matches well with the soft textures of your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe, beginners often encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cakes and cheesecake to cool completely is crucial for layering. If not cooled, the layers may collapse or become soggy.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine ingredients just until smooth for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using eggs and butter at room temperature helps achieve better mixing and texture. Take these out ahead of time.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is precise. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure correct ingredient ratios for the best results.
• Lacking patience with frosting: If frosting is too soft, chill it briefly before spreading. This will make it easier to work with and give a neater finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will last for up to 5 days while staying fresh.

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 optimal taste.

Reheating Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat; cover with a lid for even warming, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe special?

This recipe combines creamy cheesecake with a moist strawberry cake and crunchy topping, offering diverse flavors and textures that delight any dessert lover.

Can I customize my Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different fruits like blueberries or raspberries or use alternative cake mixes to suit your taste preferences.

How do I know when my cakes are done baking?

Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cakes are ready!

What should I do if my frosting is too runny?

Chill your frosting in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help it firm up before spreading it on the cake.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe offers an irresistible combination of flavors that are sure to impress at gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings and fillings according to your preferences, making it an exciting treat for all occasions!

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