Strawberry Crunch is a delightful dessert with layers of creamy filling, sweet strawberries, and a crunchy topping that perfectly balances flavors and textures. This easy-to-make recipe is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Whether you’re a strawberry lover or simply enjoy a refreshing treat, this dessert will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a no-bake dessert, perfect for warm days.
- Combines creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures for a satisfying treat.
- Easily customizable with different fruits or toppings.
- Perfect for entertaining or a casual family dessert.
- Quick to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh strawberries
- Graham crackers (or shortbread cookies)
- Unsalted butter
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Strawberry gelatin mix (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Directions
- Prepare the Crunch Topping: Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and combine with melted butter. Press the mixture into a baking dish to create the base layer, then refrigerate to set.
- Make the Creamy Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in whipped topping for a light, fluffy consistency.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust. Layer fresh strawberries on top, arranging them evenly.
- Optional Strawberry Glaze: If using strawberry gelatin, prepare it as directed and drizzle over the strawberries for added flavor and a glossy finish.
- Add the Final Crunch: Sprinkle additional crushed graham crackers over the top for extra crunch.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves approximately 8-10 people.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Swaps: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries.
- Crust Options: Use chocolate cookies, pretzels, or almond flour for a different flavor base.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and whipped topping with dairy-free alternatives.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to the topping.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Add a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk over the cream layer for added sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While freezing is not recommended for the fresh strawberries, you can freeze the crust and cream layer without the fruit for up to 1 month. Add fresh strawberries before serving.
- Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
You can use shortbread cookies, digestive biscuits, or vanilla wafers as an alternative.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert can be prepared up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are ideal, you can use thawed frozen strawberries. Be sure to drain any excess liquid.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
Is the gelatin layer necessary?
No, the gelatin layer is optional but adds a nice touch of flavor and a glossy finish.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade whipped cream works beautifully in this recipe. Simply whip heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
How long does this dessert need to chill?
It should chill for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set properly.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger dish and double all the ingredients for a bigger batch.
What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?
Place the graham crackers in a resealable plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into crumbs. Alternatively, use a food processor.
Can I add chocolate to this recipe?
Yes, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or use chocolate-flavored cookies for the crust.
Conclusion
Strawberry Crunch is a simple yet indulgent dessert that brings together the best of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s a great choice for any occasion. Try it out and impress your family and friends with this irresistible treat!
Print
Strawberry Crunch Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
- Category: Dessert Toppings
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Crunch is a delightful topping that adds a sweet, crunchy texture to various desserts like cakes, cupcakes, ice cream, and yogurt. It’s reminiscent of the coating on classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own Strawberry Crunch at home.
Ingredients
- 24 Golden Oreo cookies
- 1 (3-ounce) box of strawberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Cookies: Place the Golden Oreo cookies into a food processor and pulse until you achieve coarse crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can put the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the cookie crumbs with the dry strawberry gelatin powder until well combined. Then, pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
- Bake the Crunch: Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes.
- Cool and Store: Remove from the oven and allow the Strawberry Crunch to cool completely. Once cooled, break it into desired pieces if any large clusters have formed. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Notes
- Variations: For a more natural strawberry flavor, you can substitute the strawberry gelatin with freeze-dried strawberries. Simply process them into a powder and mix with the cookie crumbs and melted butter.
- Usage Suggestions: Sprinkle this Strawberry Crunch over cupcakes, ice cream sundaes, or a slice of cheesecake for a delightful burst of flavor and texture. You can also layer it between cake layers for added crunch and sweetness.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *