Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love a burst of fresh strawberry flavor wrapped in moist, tender cake, you’re in for a treat with this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful creation that balances fluffy cake layers infused with strawberry gelatin, silky buttercream frosting, and a surprising yet addicting crunchy topping made from Golden Oreos and strawberry Jell-O that adds both texture and a punch of fruity sweetness. This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of layers and flavors that comes together beautifully for any occasion or simply to brighten up your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients ready for this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in giving this cake its signature texture and taste. From the staples like flour and eggs for structure to the strawberry gelatin and Jell-O powder that give it that unique berry essence, every element is essential.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft and tender crumb.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures your cake rises perfectly fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without being overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both cake and frosting.
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 4 eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• 1 3/4 cups sugar: Sweetens the batter to balance the tanginess of strawberries.
• 1 package (85 g) strawberry gelatin: The secret ingredient that infuses every bite with a bright strawberry flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups milk: Adds moisture and smoothness to the batter.
• 1.5 cups butter, room temperature: For a rich, creamy buttercream frosting.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness in frosting.
• 1.5 pounds powdered sugar: Creates that silky smooth texture in the buttercream.
• 1.5 tablespoons vanilla extract: Brings the frosting to life with lovely aroma.
• 6 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk): Adjusts frosting consistency for perfect spreadability.
• 24 Golden Oreos: Crushed for the crunchy topping that adds fun texture.
• 1 box strawberry Jell-O: Combined with the Oreos to form that irresistible crunch.
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Helps bind the crunchy topping together while baking.
• 8 fresh strawberries, for decorating: Adds fresh, juicy color on top.
• Whipped cream, for decorating: Light and airy swirls to finish off your masterpiece.

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Cake Pans and Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans. Butter and flour them generously, then line the bottoms with parchment paper. This ensures your cake layers will come out cleanly and keep their perfect shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This blend forms the base of your cake, giving it structure and helping it rise evenly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a standing mixer bowl, beat the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract on medium speed until glossy and smooth. This mixture will become the rich, tender canvas for your strawberry flavors.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Strawberry Gelatin

To the wet mixture, add the sugar and strawberry gelatin powder. Beat until fully combined, allowing the gelatin to infuse that unmistakable strawberry essence deeply into the batter.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Alternate adding the flour mixture in four parts and milk in three parts to the wet batter, starting and ending with the flour. Mix everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring no lumps remain for that perfectly smooth finish.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans—around 483 grams per pan if you’re weighing it for precision. Bake in the center rack for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean and the cake edges slightly pull away. Resist the temptation to open the oven door too early for the best rise.

Step 7: Cool the Cake Layers

Let your cakes cool for 10 to 15 minutes in the pans. Then, carefully loosen with a butter knife around the edges and flip onto wire racks. Cooling completely before frosting is crucial to avoid melting your buttercream.

Step 8: Make the Buttercream Frosting

With your mixer, beat room temperature butter and salt until light and fluffy. Gradually sift in powdered sugar in batches, mixing slowly at first then increasing speed. Add vanilla extract and cream little by little until you achieve the perfect, spreadable consistency for your frosting.

Step 9: Prepare the Strawberry Crunch

Preheat the oven to 350°F again. Crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin inside a sealed bag. Mix these crumbs with strawberry Jell-O powder and melted butter until combined. Spread out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes. Let it cool completely for that addictive crunch.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

If necessary, level your cake layers for even stacking. Place the first layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of buttercream over it. Repeat with the second layer and then add the third. Apply a thin crumb coat all over and chill in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to set before the final frosting.

Step 11: Finish and Decorate

Spread a final thick layer of buttercream smoothly over the cake. Press the cooled strawberry crunch gently onto the sides and top, creating irresistible texture. Add fresh strawberry slices and whipped cream swirls for a visually stunning and inviting finish.

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries and dollops of whipped cream aren’t just for looks—they add juiciness and a lightness that perfectly balance the rich buttercream and crunchy topping. Feel free to sprinkle a few extra Oreo crumbs on top for even more texture.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple fruit salad to complement those strawberry flavors. For a more grown-up touch, serve with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or fruity iced tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake on a pretty cake stand to highlight its layers and textures. You can also cut the cake into cupcakes using the same recipe and decorate each with a bit of crunch and a sliced strawberry for individual serving charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm and fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, giving you plenty of chances to enjoy that strawberry goodness.

Freezing

If you want to keep the cake longer, freeze it in a well-wrapped cake box or airtight container. It freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. To soften it slightly after refrigeration, allow it to sit out for 15-20 minutes before digging in. Avoid microwaving as it may melt the delicate frosting and crunch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries inside the cake layers?

Fresh strawberries can add wonderful flavor but might affect the cake’s texture and moisture level. It’s best to dice them finely and toss in a bit of flour before folding in, or use as a garnish instead to keep the layers fluffy.

Is there a substitute for the strawberry gelatin?

If strawberry gelatin is unavailable, you could try raspberry or cherry gelatin for a slightly different but still fruit-forward flavor. Keep in mind it will alter the color and taste subtlety.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1 for regular flour. Be sure to check that the gelatin and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I ensure the crunch topping stays crispy?

Make sure to bake the topping until just crisp and completely cool it before applying. Pressing it gently onto the chilled crumb coat helps keep it in place and crispy longer.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

You can, but bake in multiple pans for best results. Just keep an eye on baking times and test doneness with a toothpick since larger pans may require longer baking.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings a fresh twist on classic strawberry desserts with its unique crunchy topping and luscious buttercream. It’s the kind of cake that feels special yet achievable, perfect for celebrations or simply treating yourself and loved ones. Give it a try—you’ll find it hard not to come back for seconds!

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