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
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cake Layers
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
Prepare the strawberry and vanilla cake batters separately according to the instructions on the box.
Bake each cake in its own pan for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the center is just set.
Cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping
In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla wafer cookies until they form a fine crumb.
Add melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles wet sand. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one strawberry cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread a thin layer of frosting on top, then carefully add the cheesecake layer.
Spread more frosting on the cheesecake layer and top with the vanilla cake layer.
Frost the entire cake with the whipped cream frosting.
Step 5: Add the Crunch Topping
Press the strawberry crunch topping all over the sides and top of the cake.
Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and strawberry-filled layers!
Enjoy!
