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Christmas Crunch Cake

Christmas Crunch Cake

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Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

The Christmas Crunch Cake is the perfect festive treat that combines sweet, crunchy, and creamy textures all in one delightful dessert. Its vibrant colors and irresistible flavor make it a showstopper at any holiday gathering. This cake is easy to prepare, fun to decorate, and a hit with both kids and adults, making your holiday celebrations even more special.

Ingredients

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

  • Vanilla cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake)
  • Butter
  • Sugar
  • Red and green sprinkles
  • White chocolate chips
  • Crushed pretzels
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Candy canes (crushed)
  • Whipped cream or frosting
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

Christmas Crunch Cake this Recipe
  1. Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions or your homemade recipe.
  2. Prepare the vanilla cake batter and pour it into a greased baking pan.
  3. Bake the cake as directed and let it cool completely.
  4. In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, mini marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes.
  5. Spread a layer of whipped cream or frosting over the cooled cake.
  6. Evenly sprinkle the crunchy mix over the top.
  7. Add red and green sprinkles for a festive touch.
  8. Lightly dust with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
  9. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the toppings set.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-16 slices
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

  • Chocolate Twist:ย Use chocolate cake instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
  • Nutty Crunch:ย Add chopped pecans or almonds to the crunchy topping.
  • Fruit Burst:ย Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped cherries for a fruity punch.
  • Gluten-Free:ย Use a gluten-free cake mix and pretzels for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage:ย Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing:ย You can freeze the cake without the crunchy topping for up to 2 months. Add fresh toppings after thawing.
  • Reheating:ย Not recommended as this cake is best served chilled.

FAQs

What is a Christmas Crunch Cake?

A Christmas Crunch Cake is a festive dessert topped with a crunchy mix of pretzels, marshmallows, candy canes, and more, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Add the crunchy toppings just before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?

Absolutely, a homemade vanilla or chocolate cake works great for this recipe.

How do I keep the crunchy topping from getting soggy?

Add the topping just before serving and store the cake uncovered for short periods to keep it crunchy.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free pretzels.

What other toppings can I use?

Try adding toffee bits, crushed cookies, or different colored sprinkles.

How long does this cake last?

It lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator when covered properly.

Can I freeze the cake with the toppings?

It’s best to freeze the cake without the toppings and add them fresh after thawing.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Yes, kids love the sweet, crunchy toppings and colorful presentation.

Do I need to refrigerate the cake?

Yes, especially if using whipped cream or frosting, to keep it fresh and firm.

Conclusion

The Christmas Crunch Cake is a delightful, festive dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for spreading holiday cheer. With its colorful decorations, sweet and crunchy toppings, and versatile variations, it’s sure to become a family favorite for every Christmas celebration.

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Christmas Crunch Cake

Christmas Crunch Cake

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This festiveย Christmas Crunch Cakeย is the perfect holiday dessert, featuring layers of fluffy vanilla cake filled with a sweet, crunchy surprise. Topped with creamy frosting and festive sprinkles, this cake delivers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will wow your guests. Ideal for Christmas parties or family gatherings!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk

For the Crunch Filling:

  • 1 cup rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
  • 1/4 cup sprinkles (red and green)

For the Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (add more if needed)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Festive sprinkles, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
    In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  3. Bake the Cakes:
    Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25โ€“30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Make the Crunch Filling:
    In a bowl, combine the rice cereal, crushed peppermint, and sprinkles. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it harden. Once set, break into small crunchy pieces.
  5. Prepare the Frosting:
    Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the heavy cream, vanilla, and salt, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  6. Assemble the Cake:
    Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top and sprinkle a generous amount of the crunch filling over it. Add the second cake layer, frost the top and sides of the cake, and decorate with festive sprinkles and more crunch filling if desired.
  7. Serve:
    Slice, serve, and enjoy the festive crunch in every bite!

Notes

  • You can swap out peppermint candies for crushed toffee or chocolate chips if you prefer.
  • For an extra pop of color, add red or green food coloring to the frosting.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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