Strawberry Crunch Dream Cake
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a trip down memory lane? This Strawberry Crunch cake is like a Mr. Whippy ice cream van rolled into a dessert.
It's a buttery, crunchy slice of nostalgia that will have you hooked.
Brief Overview
This Strawberry Crunch Cake is inspired by the iconic ice cream bar. While it's not super complicated, you'll need about 1 hour 15 minutes to prep and bake.
This recipe will give you 10-12 servings. Think summer baking recipes with a retro twist!
Main Benefits
Honestly, the best part is the sheer joy this retro dessert recipes brings. It's also a crowd pleaser. This recipe stands out because it's got that perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures.
What Makes This Cake So Special?
It's more than just a cake, it's an experience. The crumb topping recipe is key here. I remember the first time I nailed that golden, buttery crunch.
Oh my gosh, it was pure heaven. It's that texture that makes this cake a winner. You know, the one you get with the strawberry shortcake ice cream.
The star of the show is definitely the strawberry cream cake filling. I once tried using a different jam, and it just wasn't the same.
You really need that good quality strawberry jam to get that authentic Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream flavour. I once made it for a summer picnic.
The Strawberry Crunch Cake was gone in minutes! It pairs great with coffee or tea.
Strawberry Crunch Cake: Get Ready to Bake!
Okay, let's get down to the nitty gritty. We will make sure the cake is filled with a creamy cake fillings .
You'll need a 9 inch springform pan. You also require a mixer, and the usual baking bits and bobs. Trust me, it’s worth the effort.
This is one of those strawberry dessert recipes you'll make again and again. It is so nostalgic. Now, let's dive into what you'll need from your local Tesco's!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Bake On!
Alright, besties, let's talk about what you'll need to nail this Strawberry Crunch Dream Cake. Think of it like building your dream house.
Got to have the right tools and materials, you know? This crumb topping recipe is going to be epic. It is one of the best strawberry dessert recipes out there!
Main Players
Okay, so for our Strawberry Crunch Cake , we're talking real ingredients, no funny business.
- Flour: 1 1/2 cups (180g) for the crunch cake topping. 2 cups (240g) for the cake itself. Quality all-purpose flour is your mate here.
- Sugars: 3/4 cup (150g) granulated, 1/2 cup (100g) brown for the crunch cake . 1 cup (200g) granulated for the cake. Brown sugar needs to be packed.
- Butter: Cold, unsalted, and cubed. 10 tablespoons (140g) for the crunch topping . Softened, 1/2 cup (113g) for the cake.
- Strawberries: 1/4 cup (15g) freeze dried, crushed. Get the good stuff, finely crushed, for that proper strawberry crunch flavour.
- Cream: Heavy cream, 1 1/2 cups (360ml) . Proper double cream, thick and dreamy.
For the strawberry cream, strawberry jam of 1/2 cup (150g) would be the best option. But if you can't get it, you can try use strawberry puree.
Seasoning Shenanigans
Spices? Oh my gosh, yes! Think like this is one of the best Retro Dessert Recipes !
- Vanilla extract: Essential for that dreamy cake. A full 1 teaspoon for the cake and 1/2 teaspoon for the cream.
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons for that rise!
- Salt: Balance is key! 1/2 teaspoon in the cake and just a pinch in the crumb.
If you're feeling fancy, a little almond extract could be a game changer in the cake. It is one of the best summer baking recipes .
Equipment Essentials
Right, tools of the trade!
- 9 inch springform pan: This is a MUST.
- Mixing bowls.
- An electric mixer. Stand or hand held, your choice.
Don't have a fancy springform pan? You can use a regular cake tin, but lining it with parchment paper is essential for easy removal.
You can always make strawberry crumble bars if things go south!
Master the Strawberry Crunch: Baking Bliss
Oh my gosh, are you ready for this? We're diving headfirst into a Strawberry Crunch Cake that’s gonna take you straight back to childhood! Think those strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, but in cake form.
Honestly, it's pure magic. Let's get started on the best retro dessert recipes ever!
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
Essential prep is key. Get all 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, 10 tablespoons (140g) cold cubed butter, and 1/4 cup (15g) crushed freeze dried strawberries ready for the crumb topping recipe .
Then measure out your cake ingredients too. It saves SO much time! And a quick reminder: always wash your hands before baking!
Crumb Magic: step-by-step
Alright, let’s make this Strawberry Crunch topping.
- Combine flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a bowl.
- Cut in that cold butter until it's crumbly. Seriously, cold is vital.
- Stir in your crushed freeze dried strawberries.
- Pop that bowl into the fridge. Chill it. This is very important.
- Make sure the strawberries are finely crushed.
Sweet Tips for an Epic Crumb
Want to level up your crunch cake ? First pro tip: Use cold butter. Like, straight from-the-fridge cold. Seriously, it makes the best crumbly topping, you know?
Second, avoid overmixing when you mix the cake! The batter will be tough if you beat it a ton. Mix just until incorporated.
Now, a real game changer: Add a tablespoon of freeze dried strawberry powder to your flour mix. Trust me. This will enhance the flavor.
So there you have it. This strawberry dessert recipes won't be complete without this topping. A golden, buttery, crunchy dream.
The topping itself makes it the perfect Summer Baking Recipes . Now, off you pop to create your strawberry masterpiece. I can't wait to see what you make.
Recipe Notes: Nailing Your Strawberry Crunch Dream Cake
Alright, my friend, before you dive headfirst into baking this Strawberry Crunch Cake, let's chat about some insider tips. I want your attempt at this retro dessert recipe to be amazing.
Honestly, these notes are the difference between a good cake and a "Oh my gosh, this is incredible!" cake. We’re talking Strawberry Crunch Cake perfection.
Serving Suggestions: Making it a Showstopper
Presentation is key, you know? For this Crumb Cake , I like to add a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh strawberries on top.
It just screams summer! Or, if you're feeling extra fancy, try a scoop of Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream on the side.
As for drinks? A cold glass of lemonade is perfect. For grown ups, maybe a crisp rosé? You know, live a little!
Storage Tips: Keeping the Magic Alive
This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers? They happen. Just pop it in an airtight container. The refrigeration guidelines say it'll keep in the fridge for up to three days.
If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in cling film. Defrost it in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating instructions? Honestly, I prefer it cold straight from the fridge, but a few seconds in the microwave works too.
Variations: Making it Your Cake
Got dietary needs? No sweat! For a gluten-free version, swap the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Honestly, it works a treat! Want a lighter Strawberry Cream Cake ? Use a reduced fat cream cheese in the filling.
Seasonal ingredient swaps? In the winter, try using a mixed berry jam instead of strawberry. Talk about Strawberry Dessert Recipes ! It's like a totally new cake.
You can even make Strawberry Crumble Bars using this recipe as a base!
Nutrition Basics: Treat Yourself (Responsibly)
Okay, let’s be real. This isn't exactly health food. But life's too short to skip dessert! This cake has a bit of everything.
But a slice of this Strawberry Crunch will give you a little energy boost. Key health benefits? Well, it's good for the soul, right? Just enjoy in moderation, and maybe go for a walk afterwards.
Plus, baking is a great way to de-stress!
Right then, you're armed with all the knowledge. Now go forth and bake that Strawberry Crunch cake! You got this! Trust me, with that golden Crumb Topping Recipe , it will be a great cake for Summer Baking Recipes .
If you end up wanting other options for Cake Fillings , just let me know!
Frequently Asked Questions
Help! My strawberry crunch topping is too dry. What did I do wrong?
Crikey! A dry topping usually means there wasn't enough fat. Ensure your butter is properly measured and cold, as this helps create those lovely little clumps we're after. You can also try adding a tablespoon of melted butter to the mixture and gently tossing it until the topping comes together better, but be careful, a little goes a long way.
Can I make the strawberry crunch cake ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can be as organised as Mary Berry herself! The cake layers and crumb topping can be made a day in advance and stored separately. Store the crumb topping in the fridge.
Assemble the cake with the cream filling a few hours before serving to allow the flavours to meld, but keep it refrigerated until about 30 minutes before you plan to serve it. That way, it's fresh as a daisy when you tuck in.
I'm on a diet, is there any healthier options for making this strawberry crunch recipe?
Right then, let's lighten this up a bit! You can reduce the sugar in both the cake and the crumb topping by about 25%. Also, consider using a low-fat cream cheese mixed with a little Greek yoghurt in the filling to reduce the fat content without sacrificing too much of the creamy texture. Every little bit helps!
What's the best way to store leftover strawberry crunch cake? Will it dry out?
To keep your cake tasting its best, store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will prevent the cake from drying out and keep the cream filling fresh. It should be good for about 3-4 days, but honestly, it's so scrumptious, it probably won't last that long!
Can I substitute the freeze dried strawberries in the strawberry crunch topping?
Whilst freeze dried strawberries give the most authentic flavour and colour, you can try alternatives. Finely crushed strawberry wafer cookies (like Pink Wafers) can work, but be sure to reduce the sugar in the topping a tad since the cookies are already sweet.
Just remember, the taste and texture might be slightly different, but it'll still be a lovely treat!
Strawberry Crunch Dream Cake
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Fiber | 1-2g |