Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Add to the strawberry mixture and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Crunch Topping

1. In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla wafer cookies until they form coarse crumbs.
2. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the melted butter until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of strawberry filling on top.
2. Top with the second cake layer and spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
3. Frost the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing the top and sides.
4. Press the crunch topping onto the sides and top of the cake, ensuring it adheres well.
5. Decorate with fresh strawberries and mint leaves, if desired.

Conclusion

Your Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is now ready to impress your guests! This cake, with its layers of moist vanilla cake, fresh strawberry filling, crunchy topping, and creamy frosting, is a delightful and visually stunning dessert that is sure to become a favorite.