STRAWBERRY CRUNCH CAKE

A Strawberry Crunch Cake is a fun, colorful dessert inspired by the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. It features layers of moist strawberry-flavored cake, a creamy frosting, and a delicious crunchy topping made from strawberry and vanilla cookies. Here’s a recipe to make this irresistible cake!

Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Strawberry Cake:
• 1 box strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• For the Crunch Topping:
• 15 Golden Oreo cookies, crushed
• 15 Strawberry shortcake-flavored cookies (or strawberry-flavored Golden Oreos), crushed
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• For the Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4-5 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream (to adjust consistency)

Instructions:

For the Cake:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
• Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the vanilla extract if using. Pour the batter into one of the prepared cake pans.
• Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the other prepared cake pan.
• Bake both cakes for the time recommended on the cake mix boxes (usually 25-30 minutes) or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

For the Crunch Topping:

1. Make the Crunch Topping:

• In a food processor, pulse the Golden Oreos and the strawberry-flavored cookies separately until they are finely crushed. You can also place them in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
• Combine both cookie crumbs in a bowl and pour the melted butter over them. Mix until well coated and the crumbs stick together slightly. Set aside.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat Butter and Cream Cheese:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

1. Add Powdered Sugar:

• Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.

1. Add Vanilla and Cream:

• Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream to reach your desired consistency. Beat on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.

To Assemble the Cake:

1. Level the Cakes:

• Once the cakes have cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes if needed.

1. Frost the Cake:

• Place the strawberry cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
• Place the white cake layer on top of the frosted strawberry cake. Spread a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat) over the entire cake and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.

1. Apply the Final Frosting Layer:

• Spread the remaining frosting over the entire cake, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

1. Add the Crunch Topping:

• Gently press the strawberry crunch topping around the sides and on the top of the cake. Use your hands or a spoon to carefully press the crumbs into the frosting so they adhere well.

1. Decorate (optional):

• You can add fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or additional cookie crumbs to the top for extra flair.

1. Serve:

• Chill the cake for about 30 minutes before slicing to let everything set. Slice and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet strawberry cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy topping!

This Strawberry Crunch Cake is a deliciously nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or any celebration. It has a wonderful combination of textures, with the moist cake, creamy frosting, and the irresistible crunch on top!