Have you ever dreamed of creating a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? That’s where the Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake comes in. This delightful cake combines moist vanilla layers, a rich, creamy filling, and a crispy, sweet topping inspired by those nostalgic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars.
Not only is it perfect for celebrations, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. Let’s dive into the world of this irresistible dessert and show you how to bring it to life in your kitchen.
What is Strawberry shortcake Crunch Cake?
The Strawberry Crunch Cake is a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Imagine biting into soft, spongy cake layers, perfectly complemented by a creamy, sweet filling and a crunchy strawberry topping. The dessert makes people swoon at first glance and fall in love at first bite.
Whether it’s a birthday party, a weekend treat, or a show-stopping dessert for a family gathering, this cake is guaranteed to steal the spotlight. The topping, made with freeze-dried strawberries and golden Oreos, adds a satisfying crunch that elevates the dessert to the next level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake
Here’s everything you’ll need to bake the perfect cake layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling
The filling is rich and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
For the Crunch Topping
This iconic topping adds a delightful texture and flavor:
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- ½ cup golden Oreos, crushed
- 2 tbsp melted butter
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake
Creating this cake is more leisurely. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and softened butter in a large bowl until crumbly.
- Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tip: Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. It makes the batter smoother and helps the cake bake evenly.
Step 2: Whip Up the Filling
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries.
This creamy filling is the heart of your cake, adding a burst of freshness in every bite.
Step 3: Create the Crunch Topping
- In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and golden Oreos until they form a coarse crumble.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the melted butter until it forms clumps.
The topping should be crumbly yet hold together when pressed.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the whipped filling over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining filling.
- Press the crunch topping onto the sides and top of the cake, covering it completely.
Tip: For an extra polished look, refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for Success
Want your Strawberry shortcake Crunch Cake to turn out perfect every time? Here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Use fresh strawberries: They provide the best flavor and texture for the filling.
- Prep ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
- Customize your crunch: Swap golden Oreos for graham crackers or vanilla wafers if you prefer a different flavor.
FAQs about Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake
How do I store the cake?
Store your Strawberry Crunch Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers ahead and freeze them for up to a month. Assemble the cake on the day of serving for the best texture and taste.
What can I substitute for golden Oreos?
If golden Oreos aren’t your thing, graham crackers or vanilla wafers work just as well. Both options pair beautifully with the strawberry flavor.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a Strawberry shortcake Crunch Cake, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to the test. This dessert will become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion or just because. So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to wow your taste buds and impress your loved ones.
Call-to-Action: Have you tried making this cake yet? Share your experience in the comments below and tag us in your photos. We’d love to see your creations!