Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe – Easy, Moist & Delicious Dessert

Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is a delightful and nostalgic dessert that combines the flavors of sweet strawberries, creamy frosting, and a buttery, crunchy topping. Inspired by the classic Strawberry Shortcake ice cream bars, this cake is a perfect balance of soft and moist cake layers with a deliciously crisp strawberry crunch topping.

Whether you’re making it for a birthday, family gathering, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this homemade Strawberry Crunch Cake is sure to impress. It’s incredibly versatile—you can make it as a layered cake, sheet cake, or even cupcakes. The best part? The signature crunch topping, made from golden vanilla cookies and freeze-dried strawberries, adds an irresistible texture and flavor.

In this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe, I’ll guide you through every step to make the perfect dessert. From selecting the right ingredients to assembling and decorating the cake, you’ll learn all the tips and tricks to achieve bakery-quality results at home. Let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed

To make a perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake, you’ll need a combination of basic baking ingredients along with special elements that give the cake its signature flavor and crunch. Below, I’ve categorized the ingredients into three sections: the cake, the crunchy topping, and the frosting.

1. Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake

For the base of the cake, you can either use a homemade vanilla or strawberry cake or a boxed cake mix if you prefer a quicker option.

2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour – for a soft, fluffy texture

2 ½ teaspoons baking powder – to help the cake rise

½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened – adds moisture and richness

2 cups (400g) granulated sugar – for sweetness

4 large eggs – for structure and stability

1 tablespoon vanilla extract – enhances the flavor

½ cup (120ml) milk – keeps the cake soft

½ cup (120ml) strawberry puree or strawberry yogurt – adds natural strawberry flavor

A few drops of pink or red food coloring (optional) – for a vibrant pink hue

Alternative: If using a boxed cake mix, simply replace the water with milk, use melted butter instead of oil, and add an extra egg to make it taste more homemade.

2. Strawberry Crunch Topping Ingredients

The strawberry crunch layer is what makes this cake stand out. It mimics the crunchy exterior of the beloved Strawberry Shortcake ice cream bars.

1 cup (130g) golden vanilla cookies (like Nilla Wafers or Golden Oreos), crushed

½ cup (15g) freeze-dried strawberries, crushed

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

💡 Pro Tip: If you can’t find freeze-dried strawberries, you can use strawberry gelatin powder (Jell-O) for a similar taste and color.

3. Frosting and Filling Options

This cake pairs wonderfully with different types of frostings. Here are some options:

✔ Classic Vanilla Buttercream:

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

4 cups (480g) powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

✔ Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened

4 cups (480g) powdered sugar

½ cup (60g) strawberry puree

✔ Whipped Cream Frosting (for a lighter cake):

2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream

½ cup (60g) powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making the perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake. We will cover how to prepare the cake, bake the layers, make the signature crunch topping, and assemble everything beautifully.

Preparing the Cake Batter

1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans (or one 9×13-inch pan for a sheet cake) with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3️⃣ Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

4️⃣ Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

5️⃣ Incorporate the wet and dry ingredients:

• Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk and strawberry puree. Start and end with the dry ingredients to ensure everything is well combined.
• If using food coloring, add a few drops until you reach the desired pink shade.

6️⃣ Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Baking the Cake Layers

1️⃣ Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 28-32 minutes (for round cakes) or 35-40 minutes (for a sheet cake).

2️⃣ To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

3️⃣ Cool the cakes:

• Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
• Allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Making the Strawberry Crunch Topping

The crunch topping is what gives this cake its irresistible texture and nostalgic flavor. Here’s how to make it:

1️⃣ Crush the cookies and strawberries:

• Place the golden vanilla cookies and freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor and pulse until they become fine crumbs.
• If you don’t have a food processor, place them in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin.

2️⃣ Add the melted butter:

• Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix in the melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
• Set aside until ready to use.

Assembling the Cake

1️⃣ Level the cake layers: If the cakes have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them for even stacking.

2️⃣ Frost the first layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting (vanilla buttercream or strawberry cream cheese frosting).

3️⃣ Add the second cake layer: Carefully place the second cake layer on top and apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) around the entire cake.

4️⃣ Chill for 15-20 minutes: This helps set the crumb coat for a smoother final frosting application.

5️⃣ Apply the final frosting layer: Spread an even layer of frosting over the entire cake using an offset spatula.

Adding the Strawberry Crunch Coating

1️⃣ Press the crunch topping onto the sides and top of the cake:

• Use your hands or a spatula to gently press the strawberry crunch mixture onto the cake’s surface.
• Work quickly while the frosting is still tacky so the crumbs stick well.

2️⃣ Decorate as desired:

• Pipe extra frosting around the edges.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries for an elegant touch.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Crunch Cake

To achieve the perfect Strawberry Crunch Cake, follow these expert tips for flavor, texture, and presentation.

1. Tips to Enhance Your Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe🍓

The strawberry flavor in this cake comes from strawberry puree, freeze-dried strawberries, or strawberry yogurt. To enhance the flavor:

• Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the puree to get a natural, intense taste.
• If fresh strawberries are out of season, opt for freeze-dried strawberries in the crunch topping.
• Avoid frozen strawberries unless they are fully thawed and drained, as excess water can alter the cake’s texture.

💡 Pro Tip: Adding a little lemon juice to the strawberry puree enhances the natural strawberry flavor!

2. Achieving the Perfect Crunch Texture 🥄

The crunch topping is what makes this cake special! To ensure the best texture:

• Use a mix of golden vanilla cookies (Nilla Wafers or Golden Oreos) and freeze-dried strawberries for the most authentic crunch.
• Crush the mixture finely but leave some small chunks to create a variety of textures.
• Don’t skip the melted butter—it helps the crunch topping stick together and gives it a rich taste.
• For extra crunch, bake the mixture at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes before using it as a topping.

3. Frosting and Layering Tips 🎂

A perfectly frosted cake looks stunning and enhances the overall flavor. Here’s how to get it right:

• Chill the cake layers before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing into the frosting.
• Apply a thin crumb coat (a light layer of frosting) and let it set for 15-20 minutes in the fridge before the final coat.
• Use an offset spatula for smooth frosting application and a bench scraper for sharp edges.
• If using whipped cream frosting, refrigerate the cake immediately after decorating to maintain stability.

💡 Pro Tip: For a beautiful presentation, pipe buttercream rosettes on top and garnish with fresh strawberry slices!

4. Customizing the Cake for Different Occasions 🎉

• For a birthday cake, add pink and white sprinkles or edible gold flakes.
• For a summer party, serve with strawberry ice cream on the side.
• For Valentine’s Day, decorate with chocolate-covered strawberries.

5. How to Fix Common Cake Issues 🚨

Cake is too dense:
✔ Make sure to cream the butter and sugar properly to create air pockets.
✔ Use room-temperature eggs and milk to help the batter blend smoothly.

Crunch topping is falling off:
✔ Press the mixture onto the cake while the frosting is still slightly wet.
✔ If needed, lightly mist the cake with water before applying the crunch topping.

Cake layers are uneven:
✔ Use a serrated knife to trim excess cake for even layers.
✔ Weigh the batter before dividing it between pans to ensure even amounts.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about the Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is that it’s highly customizable! Whether you want a strawberry crunch cake with a strawberry shortcake-inspired version, a chocolate-strawberry crunch cake, or a healthier alternative, there’s a variation for everyone. This Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe allows you to experiment with different flavors while keeping the signature strawberry crunch topping. No matter how you customize it, this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is always a crowd-pleaser!

1. Strawberry Shortcake-Inspired Version 🍓

If you love the classic strawberry shortcake, this variation is perfect for you!

✅ How to modify the recipe:

• Use buttermilk instead of regular milk in the cake batter for a rich, tangy flavor.
• Add fresh strawberry slices between the layers instead of just frosting.
• Replace the crunch topping with crumbled shortbread cookies for a more traditional shortcake taste.
• Use whipped cream frosting instead of buttercream for a lighter, airy texture.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate strawberry shortcake experience!

2. Chocolate-Strawberry Crunch Cake 🍫

Love the combination of chocolate and strawberries? Try this delicious twist!

✅ How to modify the recipe:

• Substitute ½ cup of flour with cocoa powder to create a chocolate-strawberry cake base.
• Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra indulgence.
• Mix crushed chocolate cookies (like Oreos) with the strawberry crunch topping for a chocolate-strawberry crunch.
• Use chocolate ganache drizzle over the frosting before applying the crunch topping.

💡 Pro Tip: Garnish with chocolate-covered strawberries for a show-stopping dessert!

3. Vegan and Gluten-Free Alternatives 🌱

Want to make this cake vegan or gluten-free? Here’s how!

✅ Vegan modifications:

• Use plant-based butter and almond milk instead of dairy products.
• Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
• Opt for vegan vanilla cookies and dairy-free frosting.

✅ Gluten-free modifications:

• Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Use gluten-free vanilla cookies for the crunch topping.

💡 Pro Tip: Since gluten-free cakes can be drier, add an extra tablespoon of oil or applesauce for more moisture!

4. Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes 🧁

Want an individual serving of this cake? Turn it into cupcakes!

✅ How to modify the recipe:

• Use the same cake batter but bake in a cupcake tin at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.
• Pipe frosting onto each cupcake and dip the tops into the strawberry crunch topping.
• Top with a fresh strawberry slice for an elegant look.

💡 Pro Tip: Fill the cupcakes with strawberry jam for an extra burst of flavor!

5. No-Bake Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake 🍰

Don’t want to bake? Try this easy no-bake version!

✅ How to modify the recipe:

• Make a graham cracker crust and press it into a cheesecake pan.
• Whip together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped cream for the filling.
• Top with the strawberry crunch mixture instead of baking a cake!

💡 Pro Tip: Let it chill for at least 4 hours before slicing for the best texture.

How to Store and Serve the Cake

To keep your Strawberry Crunch Cake fresh and delicious, it’s important to store it properly. Whether you’re saving leftovers or preparing in advance, these storage and serving tips will help maintain the cake’s flavor and texture.

1. How to Store the Cake

Storing at Room Temperature (Short-Term Storage)

If the cake is unfrosted, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days.

A fully assembled cake with buttercream frosting can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 24 hours, as long as it’s covered properly with a cake dome or plastic wrap.

💡 Best for: Cakes that will be eaten within a day!

Refrigerating the Cake (Best for Frosted Cakes)

If the cake is already frosted, store it in an airtight container or lightly cover it with plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep the frosting stable and the cake moist.

Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften.

💡 Pro Tip: If storing slices, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing the Cake (Best for Long-Term Storage)

Want to save the cake for later? Follow these steps to freeze it:

✅ Freezing Unfrosted Cake Layers:

1. Wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
2. Place in a freezer-safe ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. When ready to use, thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before frosting.

✅ Freezing a Fully Assembled Cake:

1. Place the cake in the freezer uncovered for 1-2 hours to harden the frosting.
2. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.
3. Freeze for up to 2 months.
4. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

💡 Pro Tip: If freezing a decorated cake, freeze without the strawberry crunch topping and add it fresh before serving!

2. Best Ways to Serve the Cake

For the best flavor and texture, serve this cake at room temperature!

Here are a few fun serving ideas:

Classic Style: Serve a slice on its own with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ice Cream Pairing: Add a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for extra indulgence.
Fresh Berry Garnish: Decorate with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
Whipped Cream Topping: Add a swirl of homemade whipped cream on the side.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate for an elegant touch.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices and wipe the blade between cuts for the best presentation!

To keep readers engaged and encourage them to explore more recipes on Powerful Recipe, consider linking to the following articles:

• If you love crispy textures, try these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders for a crunchy, guilt-free delight!
• Want another comforting dish? Check out this Creamed Chipped Beef for a creamy, savory experience.
• Looking for an easy dinner to balance out the sweetness? This Instant Pot Corned Beef is a perfect, flavorful meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What adds crunch to a cake?

The crunch in a cake usually comes from textured toppings or mix-ins. In a Strawberry Crunch Cake, the crunch is created by a mixture of:
Golden vanilla cookies (like Nilla Wafers or Golden Oreos)
Freeze-dried strawberries
Melted butter (which helps everything stick together)

Other ways to add crunch to a cake include:

Chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans)

Toasted coconut flakes

Crispy cereal (like Rice Krispies)

Caramelized sugar (for a brûléed effect)

💡 Pro Tip: Lightly baking the crunch topping at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes enhances its crispiness!

2. What is the secret to super moist cake?

A moist cake comes down to the right ingredients and techniques. Here’s how to achieve the perfect moist cake:

Use buttermilk, yogurt, or sour cream – These ingredients add richness and prevent dryness.
Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing creates too much gluten, making the cake dense instead of fluffy.
Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off (don’t pack it in).
Use room-temperature ingredients – Cold ingredients don’t mix well and can lead to dry cake.
Brush simple syrup on the cake layers – A light coating of sugar syrup keeps the cake moist.
Don’t overbake – Bake just until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

💡 Pro Tip: Adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the batter can boost moisture without affecting flavor!

3. What is the difference between strawberry cake and strawberry shortcake?

Both cakes highlight strawberries, but they are quite different in texture and preparation:

💡 Pro Tip: If you love both, try a Strawberry Shortcake-Inspired Cake by using whipped cream frosting and fresh berries!

4. How to enhance strawberry flavor in baking?

To bring out the best strawberry flavor in baked goods, use these tricks:

Use fresh strawberry puree – Puree fresh strawberries and add it to the batter or frosting.
Incorporate freeze-dried strawberries – Grind freeze-dried strawberries into a powder and mix it into the batter or frosting.
Use strawberry extract – A few drops of strawberry extract boost the flavor without excess moisture.
Add lemon juice – A small amount enhances the natural tartness of strawberries, making the flavor pop.
Roast fresh strawberries – Roasting intensifies their natural sweetness before using them in the cake.
Strawberry jam or preserves – Swirl into the batter or frosting for a concentrated fruit flavor.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid artificial strawberry flavoring, as it can taste synthetic—stick to natural ingredients for the best results!

Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is a delicious, nostalgic dessert that combines soft, moist cake layers with a sweet and crunchy strawberry topping. Inspired by the classic Strawberry Shortcake ice cream bars, this Strawberry Crunch Cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply indulging in a special treat.

With its buttery vanilla cake, creamy frosting, and crispy strawberry crunch topping, this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic strawberry crunch cake recipe or try fun variations like a chocolate-strawberry crunch cake or strawberry shortcake-inspired version, this dessert is endlessly customizable.

By following the Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe baking tips, storage guidelines, and expert tricks, you can create a homemade Strawberry Crunch Cake with ease. So why not give this Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe a try? Gather your ingredients, bake with love, and enjoy every delicious bite! 🍓🎂

Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe: A Sweet & Crunchy Delight

This Strawberry Crunch Cake is a deliciously moist strawberry cake layered with velvety vanilla frosting and a crunchy strawberry cookie topping. Inspired by the classic Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars, this cake combines sweet, fruity flavors with a crispy cookie crumble for the perfect bite. It’s a show-stopping dessert for birthdays, summer gatherings, or any special occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Equipment

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Spatula
• Baking sheet (for crunch topping)
• Food processor or zip-top bag & rolling pin (for crushing cookies)
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

  

• For the Strawberry Cake:
• 1 box strawberry cake mix or homemade, see notes
• 1 cup water or milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Vanilla Frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
• 20 Golden Oreos or vanilla sandwich cookies
• ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries or strawberry Jell-O mix for color
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Bake the Strawberry Cake
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large bowl, combine strawberry cake mix, water/milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
• Divide batter evenly between the cake pans.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
• Step 2: Make the Vanilla Frosting
• In a mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
• Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, whipping until fluffy.
• Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping
• In a food processor, pulse Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries until crumbly.
• Mix in melted butter until combined.
• Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes for extra crunch (optional).
• Step 4: Assemble the Cake
• Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread vanilla frosting evenly.
• Add the second cake layer and frost the entire cake.
• Press strawberry crunch topping onto the sides and top of the cake.
• Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
• Slice and serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a firmer texture.

Notes

Homemade Strawberry Cake: Use 1 ¾ cups flour, 1 cup sugar, ½ cup butter, 3 eggs, ½ cup strawberry purée, ½ cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 tsp baking powder.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze Cake Layers: Wrap in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months.
Extra Strawberry Flavor: Add strawberry extract to the cake batter or frosting.

Keyword strawberry crunch cake, strawberry shortcake cake, easy strawberry cake, homemade strawberry crunch, birthday cake, summer desserts