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Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

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    Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

    Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of classic strawberry shortcake with a modern twist. This cake features layers of moist vanilla cake, fresh strawberry filling, and a crunchy topping reminiscent of the beloved ice cream bars. Finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert.

    Strawberry shortcake has been a cherished dessert for centuries, with origins tracing back to England. Traditionally, it consists of sweet biscuits or sponge cake layered with strawberries and whipped cream. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, and creative variations like the Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake have emerged, offering a delightful new take on a classic favorite.

    Ingredients

    For the Vanilla Cake:

    • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    • 1 cup whole milk

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    For the Strawberry Filling:

    • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    • 2 tablespoons water

    For the Crunch Topping:

    • 1 1/2 cups freeze-dried strawberries
    • 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer cookies
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

    For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
    • 4 cups powdered sugar
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

    For Garnish:

    • Fresh strawberries, for decoration
    • Mint leaves (optional)

    Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Cake

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
    2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
    3. In a large bowl, beat the butter, vegetable oil, and sugar together until light and fluffy.
    4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
    5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
    6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
    7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    8. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

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    Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

    1. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
    2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and soften, about 5-7 minutes.
    3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Add to the strawberry mixture and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
    4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

    Step 3: Prepare the Crunch Topping

    1. In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla wafer cookies until they form coarse crumbs.
    2. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the melted butter until well combined.

    Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

    1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
    2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
    3. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

    Step 5: Assemble the Cake

    1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of strawberry filling on top.
    2. Top with the second cake layer and spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
    3. Frost the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing the top and sides.
    4. Press the crunch topping onto the sides and top of the cake, ensuring it adheres well.
    5. Decorate with fresh strawberries and mint leaves, if desired.

    Conclusion

    Your Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is now ready to impress your guests! This cake, with its layers of moist vanilla cake, fresh strawberry filling, crunchy topping, and creamy frosting, is a delightful and visually stunning dessert that is sure to become a favorite.

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