Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a stunning dessert? The Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake is a delicious and eye-catching treat that layers sweet strawberry flavors with creamy cheesecake and moist vanilla cake. It’s perfect for celebrations or just when you want something special!
Why Make This Recipe
This Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake is not only beautiful but also delicious. The combination of flavors—rich cheesecake, fluffy cake, and fruity strawberry glaze—will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a fun dessert to make for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla or white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
- 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional, for a vibrant color)
- 1 cup vanilla wafers or graham crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix as per instructions, adding vanilla if desired. Divide the batter into two 9-inch cake pans and bake. Let the cakes cool completely.
For the cheesecake layer, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a springform pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, then the vanilla, strawberry puree, and food coloring. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. After baking, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set.
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed wafers and freeze-dried strawberries with the melted butter to create the crunch topping.
Cook the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Allow it to cool for a glaze.
Now it’s time to assemble the cake! Start by layering one cake on a plate, then spread some of the strawberry glaze on top, followed by a layer of cheesecake. Add the second cake layer on top and drizzle more glaze.
Frost the entire cake with whipped cream. Sprinkle the crunch topping over the top and drizzle with the cooled glaze. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
Finally, slice the cake and serve chilled. Enjoy every delicious bite!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake
Serve the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake chilled. It’s perfect as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat at a gathering. You can garnish each slice with additional fresh strawberries or whipped cream if you like!
How to Store Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator. Keep it covered to maintain freshness. It can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Tips to Make Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Allow plenty of time for the cheesecake to set in the refrigerator; this will help it hold its shape when slicing.
- Experiment with different types of berries for a unique twist.
Variation
You can swap out strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries to create a different flavor profile. Just keep the same cheesecake and cake base!
FAQs
1. Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of a box mix?
Yes, you can use your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe instead of a box mix.
2. How do I make the strawberry puree?
Simply blend fresh or frozen strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth.
3. Can I freeze the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. You can store it for about 1 month.
