Description
Delight in the sumptuous layers of the Strawberry Delight Layered Cake, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, soft cake layers, and a crunchy strawberry topping. This dessert is an ideal choice for special occasions or simply as a decadent treat to indulge in at any time. The combination of flavors and textures makes this cake a favorite among both children and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- 1 box of strawberry cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies or golden Oreos, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Frosting:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Make the Cake Layers
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans. Prepare the strawberry and vanilla cake mixes in separate bowls according to the box instructions. Pour each mix into a prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan. In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until set. Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping
In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and cookies until finely crumbed. Mix in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving plate. Apply a thin layer of frosting, then carefully place the cheesecake layer on top. Add another layer of frosting followed by the vanilla cake layer. Cover the entire assembly with the remaining frosting.
Step 5: Add the Crunch Topping
Press the strawberry crunch mixture onto the sides and top of the cake. Optionally, decorate with fresh strawberries.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. Cut into slices and enjoy chilled.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves approximately 12-16 people. Total preparation time, including baking and chilling, is around 8 hours.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cake without the topping for up to 1 month. Add the topping after thawing and before serving.
- This cake is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Delight Layered Cake is not just a treat for the palate but also a visual delight, making it a perfect centerpiece for celebrations. The layers of fluffy cake, rich cheesecake, and crisp strawberry crunch offer a play of textures that is sure to delight any dessert lover.
PrintStrawberry Delight Layered Cake
- Total Time: 8 hours
- Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
Description
Delight in the sumptuous layers of the Strawberry Delight Layered Cake, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, soft cake layers, and a crunchy strawberry topping. This dessert is an ideal choice for special occasions or simply as a decadent treat to indulge in at any time. The combination of flavors and textures makes this cake a favorite among both children and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 box of strawberry cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies or golden Oreos, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Cake Layers Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans. Prepare the strawberry and vanilla cake mixes in separate bowls according to the box instructions. Pour each mix into a prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan. In a large bowl, cream together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until set. Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Step 3: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and cookies until finely crumbed. Mix in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Set aside.
- Step 4: Assemble the Cake Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving plate. Apply a thin layer of frosting, then carefully place the cheesecake layer on top. Add another layer of frosting followed by the vanilla cake layer. Cover the entire assembly with the remaining frosting.
- Step 5: Add the Crunch Topping Press the strawberry crunch mixture onto the sides and top of the cake. Optionally, decorate with fresh strawberries.
- Step 6: Chill and Serve Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. Cut into slices and enjoy chilled.