Print

Crispy Strawberry Crunch Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting

crispy strawberry crunch cake - featured image
Print Recipe

A nostalgic and easy-to-make cake featuring a crispy buttery crust, juicy strawberry crunch layer, and fluffy creamy vanilla frosting. Perfect for any occasion and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (about 300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar
  • ½ cup (50g) chopped pecans or almonds (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or two knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour into dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
  5. In another bowl, toss sliced strawberries with light brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts if using.
  6. Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Layer the strawberry mixture evenly on top, then pour remaining batter over the strawberries and smooth gently.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and edges are golden brown.
  8. Cool cake in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before frosting.
  9. Beat softened butter with an electric mixer until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
  10. Add vanilla bean paste, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high for 3-4 minutes until light and creamy. Adjust cream for desired consistency.
  11. Spread frosting generously over cooled cake using an offset spatula to create soft peaks and swirls.
  12. Slice and serve with cold milk or tea.

Notes

Keep butter cold when cutting into flour to achieve a crispy crust. Do not overmix batter to avoid toughness. Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best flavor. Cool cake completely before frosting to prevent melting. Frosting can be made a day ahead and re-whipped before use. Cornstarch in strawberry layer prevents sogginess. Nuts can be swapped for toasted coconut flakes for variation. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry cake, crispy cake, vanilla frosting, homemade dessert, easy cake recipe, summer dessert, potluck dessert

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/crispy-strawberry-crunch-cake-recipe-easy-homemade-dessert-with-creamy-vanilla-frosting/