Who doesn’t love the nostalgic flavor of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars? That creamy, fruity, and crunchy combo is unforgettable. Now imagine turning that magic into a homemade cake that’s super easy to make and incredibly delicious. That’s exactly what a strawberry crunch cake delivers—layers of soft cake, creamy frosting, and a crunchy topping that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make the ultimate strawberry crunch cake step by step. From the simple ingredients to pro tips, you’ll be whipping up this show-stopping dessert in no time. So let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Strawberry Crunch Cake
Strawberry crunch cake is everything you love about those classic strawberry shortcake bars in cake form. It’s a soft, strawberry-flavored cake topped with creamy frosting and finished with a crunchy topping made of crushed cookies and strawberries. Every bite is the perfect balance of moist, creamy, and crispy.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Whether you’re baking it for a party, a potluck, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this cake is guaranteed to steal the show.
Ingredients Needed for Strawberry Crunch Cake
To make the perfect strawberry crunch cake, you’ll need simple, readily available ingredients divided into three parts: the cake base, the frosting, and the crunchy topping. Whether you’re baking from scratch or taking a few shortcuts, these ingredients will help you achieve a delicious and visually stunning cake.
For the Strawberry Cake
- 1 box of white or vanilla cake mix (or your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe)
- 1 package of strawberry gelatin (3 oz) – Adds flavor and a vibrant pink color
- 1 cup water (or milk for extra richness)
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender
- 3 large eggs – Room temperature for the best texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor
- Optional: ½ cup pureed fresh strawberries for an extra fruity kick
Tip: If you prefer a homemade strawberry cake, replace the box mix with a simple cake batter made with all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, butter, eggs, and fresh strawberries.
For the Creamy Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar – Sifted for a smooth frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese – Room temperature for a creamy, tangy flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth to the frosting
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk – Adjust consistency as needed
- Optional: 2-3 tablespoons strawberry puree or 1 teaspoon strawberry extract for a strawberry-flavored frosting
Note: The cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the cake, balancing its sweetness while complementing the strawberry crunch topping.
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 package of Golden Oreos (about 20 cookies) – Crushed into fine crumbs
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries – Crushed into a powder or small pieces
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Helps the topping stick together
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh strawberries – Sliced or halved for decoration
- Whipped cream – For an extra creamy touch
- Strawberry syrup drizzle – Adds visual appeal and more strawberry flavor
Why These Ingredients Work
- Cake Mix with Gelatin: Combining a boxed mix with strawberry gelatin simplifies the process while guaranteeing a moist, flavorful cake. The gelatin adds vibrant color and a boost of fruity flavor.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Its creamy, slightly tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the cake and topping beautifully.
- Crunch Topping: Golden Oreos provide the perfect vanilla cookie base, while freeze-dried strawberries deliver an intense strawberry flavor and signature crunch.
These ingredients come together effortlessly to create a cake that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions for Strawberry Crunch Cake
Follow these easy, detailed steps to create the perfect strawberry crunch cake. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these instructions will ensure your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and absolutely stunning.
1- Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line them with parchment paper for easy release).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, strawberry gelatin, water (or milk), vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Use an electric mixer on low speed to mix the ingredients for about 30 seconds. Then increase to medium speed and beat for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- If you’re using fresh strawberry puree for added flavor, gently fold it into the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
2- Bake the Cake
- Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Gently transfer the cakes to a wire rack and let them cool completely before applying frosting.
Tip: Be sure the cakes are completely cooled to prevent the frosting from melting.
3– Prepare the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream (or milk) to adjust the frosting’s consistency. Beat on medium-high speed for an additional 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.
- For a strawberry-flavored frosting, mix in strawberry puree or a teaspoon of strawberry extract.
4– Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- In a food processor, pulse the Golden Oreos until they form fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl.
- Add the freeze-dried strawberries to the food processor and pulse them into a powder or small pieces. Combine with the Oreo crumbs.
- Pour the melted butter over the crumb mixture and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. The topping should resemble a coarse, crunchy crumble.
5- Assemble the Cake
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting for a clean finish.
- Gently press the strawberry crunch topping onto the sides and top of the cake, ensuring it adheres to the frosting. Continue until the cake is fully coated in the crunchy topping.
6- Decorate and Serve
- Garnish the cake with fresh strawberries, whipped cream dollops, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for a finishing touch.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Tips
- Slice the cake with a sharp, clean knife for the neatest presentation.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Variations and Substitutions for Strawberry Crunch Cake
The beauty of strawberry crunch cake lies in its versatility. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or looking to try something new, there are endless ways to customize this dessert while keeping its signature charm intact.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cake
Love chocolate? Simply swap the vanilla cake mix for a chocolate cake mix. Pair it with strawberry frosting and the same crunchy topping for a delicious twist. The combination of chocolate and strawberry is truly irresistible!
Lemon Strawberry Crunch Cake
Looking for something refreshing? Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract to the cake batter. This burst of citrus flavor perfectly balances the sweet, crunchy topping and adds a bright, zesty twist.
Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch Cake
Want to take it up a notch? Add a cheesecake layer between your cake layers! Make a simple no-bake cheesecake using cream cheese, sugar, and whipped cream. Place it between the cooled layers before frosting, then finish with the strawberry crunch topping for an indulgent, creamy dessert.
Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
For an extra moist version, turn it into a poke cake! After baking, poke small holes into the cake layers and pour strawberry Jell-O or strawberry syrup over the top. This adds even more flavor and makes every bite incredibly luscious.
These fun variations allow you to customize strawberry crunch cake for any occasion and preference. Try one—or all—and watch your dessert disappear in no time!
Dietary Substitutions
Gluten-Free Strawberry Crunch Cake
Replace the standard cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. For the crunch topping, swap Golden Oreos with gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as gelatin and toppings, are certified gluten-free.
Vegan Strawberry Crunch Cake
Use a vegan vanilla cake mix or your favorite homemade vegan cake recipe. Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Substitute dairy butter and cream cheese with vegan alternatives, and ensure the crunch topping uses vegan sandwich cookies and freeze-dried strawberries.
Lower-Sugar Option
Opt for a sugar-free cake mix and replace powdered sugar in the frosting with a sugar-free sweetener, such as monk fruit sweetener. For the crunch topping, use low-sugar vanilla wafers or sugar-free sandwich cookies as a substitute.
These easy substitutions make it simple to enjoy strawberry crunch cake while accommodating dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!
Presentation Ideas
Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
Turn this cake into cupcakes for a fun, portable treat! Bake the batter in lined muffin tins, top each with frosting, and roll them in the crunch topping. Perfect for parties or gatherings.
Strawberry Crunch Trifles
For an elegant twist, layer chunks of cake, frosting, and crunch topping in small jars or dessert cups. Top with fresh strawberries for a beautiful, individual dessert.
Mini Layer Cakes
Use a round cookie cutter to create small cake circles from sheet cakes. Then stack them with frosting and crunch topping for adorable single-serving cakes.
Decorative Touches
Add swirls of whipped cream or frosting along the edges. Decorate with fresh strawberries or edible flowers for a pop of color. Finally, drizzle with strawberry syrup for a polished, glossy finish.
These simple ideas will make your strawberry crunch cake the star of any occasion!
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake
To make your strawberry crunch cake flawless, here are key tips for success. These will help you bake a moist cake, achieve smooth frosting, and ensure a crunchy topping that wows every time.
Baking Tips for a Soft and Fluffy Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs, butter, and milk blend better when they’re at room temperature, giving you a smooth, even cake batter.
- Measure Carefully: Avoid dry cake by measuring flour correctly. Spoon it into the cup and level it off.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until combined to keep the cake soft. Overmixing creates a dense texture.
- Check Early: Start testing doneness 5 minutes early. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Frosting Tips for a Clean Finish
- Chill the Cake: Cool layers for 30 minutes before frosting to reduce crumbs.
- Apply a Crumb Coat: Use a thin frosting layer to trap crumbs, chill briefly, then apply the final layer.
- Adjust Consistency: Too thick? Add a little milk. Too thin? Beat in powdered sugar until perfect.
Achieving the Perfect Crunch Topping
- Crush Cookies Well: Pulse Golden Oreos into fine crumbs but leave some texture for crunch.
- Mix at the Last Minute: Combine cookies, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter right before decorating to keep it crispy.
- Press Firmly: Gently press the topping into the frosting so it sticks evenly.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days and bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months. Thaw before assembling.
- Add fresh crunch topping to leftovers to keep it crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the strawberry shortcake Crunchies made of?
The strawberry shortcake Crunchies are typically made from a mix of crushed vanilla cookies (like Golden Oreos) and freeze-dried strawberries. Melted butter is added to bind the crumbs together, giving them that signature crunchy texture and delicious strawberry-vanilla flavor.
What adds crunch to a cake?
The crunch in a cake usually comes from a topping made with crushed cookies, cereal, or nuts combined with butter or oil to hold it together. In the case of strawberry crunch cake, the crunch comes from crushed Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries. Together, they create a sweet, crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and creamy frosting.
Does Costco make strawberry cake?
Yes, Costco often offers a strawberry-themed cake, though availability may vary depending on the season and location. Their strawberry cakes usually feature layers of fluffy cake, creamy frosting, and sometimes fresh strawberry filling. However, if you’re craving something extra special, making your own strawberry crunch cake at home is a fantastic way to enjoy this dessert!
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes! Strawberry crunch cake can be made ahead of time:
- Cake layers: Bake the cake layers 1-2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Frosting: Prepare the frosting and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before using.
- Crunch topping: Make the topping fresh, as it may lose its crunch if stored for too long.
Assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and presentation.