Strawberry Crunch Cake

This decadent Strawberry Crunch Cake is the ultimate dessert experience, combining layers of creamy cheesecake, moist strawberry cake, and a crunchy cookie crumble topping. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion, and it’s sure to impress everyone at your gathering. With its rich layers of flavor and texture, this cake is a must-try for any dessert lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Crunch Cake is a true indulgence. The combination of strawberry cake, creamy cheesecake, and a crunchy, sweet topping makes each bite a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures. The cheesecake layer adds a rich, smooth creaminess, while the strawberry cake is moist and flavorful. The crunchy vanilla cookie crumbs on top add a fun texture that’s both sweet and slightly tart. It’s a show-stopping dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookie Crumb Layer:

• 36 vanilla sandwich cookies, coarsely crushed

• 3 oz box strawberry gelatin mix

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 5 to 6 drops red food color gel

For the Strawberry Cake Layers:

• 16.5 oz box Strawberry Supreme cake mix

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)

• 1 cup whole milk

• 3 oz box strawberry gelatin mix

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup heavy cream

• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups powdered sugar

Directions

1. Prepare the Cookie Crumbs:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Divide the crushed cookies into 2 small bowls. Mix one bowl with the dry strawberry gelatin, and mix the second bowl with the melted butter.

• Add 5-6 drops of red food coloring to the second bowl and mix until evenly incorporated.

• Spread both crumb mixtures onto the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.

• Let the crumbs cool completely.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Cake Layers:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

• In a bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, melted butter, milk, and strawberry gelatin. Stir until smooth.

• Divide the batter between the two pans and bake for 24-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

• Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

• Lower the oven temperature to 325°F.

• Mix the sugar and cornstarch in a small bowl.

• In a stand mixer, beat together cream cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until smooth.

• Add eggs one at a time, then add the sugar-cornstarch mixture. Mix until fully combined.

• Pour the cheesecake batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan.

• Bake at 325°F for 40 minutes. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest in the oven for an additional 20 minutes.

• Remove from the oven and let it cool on a rack for 30 minutes. Freeze the cheesecake for 1 hour.

4. Prepare the Frosting:

• In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, heavy cream, and butter on medium-high speed for 1½ to 2 minutes.

• Gradually add vanilla extract and powdered sugar, beating until smooth and fluffy.

5. Assemble the Cake:

• Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving plate. Spread ¼ cup of frosting on top.

• Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on top of the frosted cake layer.

• Spread another ¼ cup of frosting over the cheesecake.

• Top with the second strawberry cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

6. Finish the Cake:

• Break up the cooled cookie crumbs and sprinkle them generously over the top of the cake.

• Gently press the crumbs onto the sides of the cake to adhere.

7. Serve:

• Let the cake rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 13 servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

• Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes

Variations

• Fruit variations: Swap the strawberry gelatin for other fruit flavors like raspberry or peach for a different twist.

• Chocolate drizzle: For a richer flavor, drizzle melted chocolate over the cake before adding the cookie crumb layer.

• Add whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra creaminess and a lighter touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze this cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

• Reheating: This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. No need to reheat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes! You can use a white or vanilla cake mix as an alternative to the strawberry cake mix, but the flavor profile will change slightly. For a richer flavor, try using a homemade cake recipe.

Can I make this cake without the cheesecake layer?

Yes, you can skip the cheesecake layer and make it a regular strawberry layer cake. You could also try using a different filling, like a layer of whipped cream or pudding.

Can I make the cookie crumble topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie crumble ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a month.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The cheesecake should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free cake mix for the layers and make sure the cookies are gluten-free for the crumb topping.

Can I add more layers to the cake?

You can add additional layers of cake or cheesecake if you’d like to make a taller, more decadent cake. Just be sure to adjust the frosting and crumb mixture to cover the extra layers.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Crunch Cake is a showstopper dessert that combines the best of cheesecake, cake, and a crunchy topping. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for any special occasion, party, or holiday. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will certainly impress everyone who tastes it.