Strawberry Crunch Cake is a vibrant, flavorful dessert that combines the sweet taste of strawberries with a delightful crunch. Featuring layers of moist strawberry cake, creamy frosting, and a crunchy strawberry crumb topping, this cake is perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any time you want to indulge in a fruity treat. Here’s how to make this delicious cake from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Strawberry Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup strawberry puree (about 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries blended until smooth)
• ½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice added)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon strawberry extract (optional, for enhanced strawberry flavor)

For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup strawberry puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon strawberry extract (optional, for enhanced strawberry flavor)

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers (about 10-12 full sheets)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup strawberry-flavored gelatin powder (like Jell-O)

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh strawberries
• Mint leaves

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberry Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and strawberry extract (if using).
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the strawberry puree and buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated. Increase to medium speed and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract. Add the strawberry extract (if using) and beat until fully combined.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, melted butter, and strawberry-flavored gelatin powder. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

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4. Assemble the Strawberry Crunch Cake:

1. Level the tops of the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife if necessary to ensure even layers.
2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting over the top.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down to level.
4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining strawberry cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.
5. Gently press the strawberry crunch topping into the frosting on the top and sides of the cake, making sure it adheres well.

5. Garnish and Serve:

1. If desired, garnish the cake with fresh strawberries and mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance.
2. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together.
3. Slice the cake with a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for clean slices.
4. Serve and enjoy this delightful strawberry-flavored treat!

Tips:

• For the best results, use fresh or frozen strawberries for the puree. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them before blending.
• If you prefer a stronger strawberry flavor, you can add more strawberry extract or increase the amount of strawberry puree in the frosting.
• The cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion:

Strawberry Crunch Cake is a refreshing and delightful dessert that combines the fruity flavor of strawberries with a satisfying crunch. With its layers of moist strawberry cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy topping, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, strawberry-infused treat!