Strawberry Pie Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a delectable dessert combining sweet, fresh strawberries, tangy cream cheese, and a buttery crumb topping. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a simple weekend treat. Let’s dive into the steps to make this mouthwatering cake and discover a few pro tips along the way.
Why This Cake Stands Out
This dessert stands out because of the combination of fresh strawberries, a rich cream cheese layer, and a crunchy crumb topping. Whether you’re aiming to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special, this cake is the ideal choice.
If you’re looking to achieve the perfect crumb topping, you can follow this crumb topping guide for expert tips. Additionally, when deciding between fresh or frozen strawberries, the comparison between fresh vs. frozen strawberries will help you make the right decision.
Ingredients and Their Importance
Core Ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries: These provide a burst of sweetness and moisture.
- Cream cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Crumb topping: A mixture of butter, flour, and sugar that adds texture and crunch.
- Cake base: Soft and fluffy, it holds all the layers together.
Ingredient Tips:
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider using strawberry extract to intensify the strawberry notes.
- Full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended as it creates a richer, creamier texture.
If you love desserts made with cream cheese, you might also enjoy this delightful Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie for a refreshing, no-bake summer option.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Strawberry Pie Cream Cheese Crumb Cake.
Preparing the Cake Base
- First, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Then, add the eggs, vanilla, and strawberry extract to the mixture.
- Gradually mix in the flour and milk until the batter is smooth.
Making the Cream Cheese Layer
- Start by whipping together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until the mixture becomes smooth.
- After that, spread the cream cheese evenly over the cake base.
Assembling the Strawberry Layer
- Thinly slice the fresh strawberries and arrange them over the cream cheese layer.
- Make sure the strawberries are evenly distributed to ensure a consistent flavor throughout the cake.
Creating the Crumb Topping
- Combine the butter, sugar, and flour until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Finally, sprinkle the topping generously over the strawberries.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 45–50 minutes.
- Once baked, let the cake cool completely before serving, as this allows the flavors to set properly.
Tips for the Perfect Cake
Baking Tips:
- To prevent a soggy bottom, pre-bake the cake base slightly before adding the cream cheese and strawberries.
- Additionally, refrigerating the cake for at least an hour helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Flavor Enhancements:
- You could add a touch of cinnamon to the crumb topping for a warmer flavor.
- A dash of lemon juice over the strawberries will also help brighten their natural sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overmixing the batter is a common mistake that can make your cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Not draining strawberries properly, especially if using frozen ones, can result in a soggy cake.
To avoid other common issues with cream cheese-based desserts, consider checking out how to prevent mishaps in this Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe.
Variations to Try
There are plenty of ways to put your spin on this cake:
- Mini Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cakes: These are perfect for individual servings or parties.
- No-Bake Version: If you’re short on time, replace the cake base with a graham cracker crust for a quicker dessert.
- Streusel or Glaze Addition: Drizzle a powdered sugar glaze over the crumb topping for an extra layer of sweetness.
Nutritional Information
This cake contains about 300–350 calories per slice, depending on the size of the serving and the ingredients used. While it’s certainly indulgent, you can make healthier adjustments to the recipe if needed.
Healthier Modifications:
- You can substitute full-fat cream cheese with a low-fat alternative or even use one of these cream cheese substitutes to lighten the dessert.
- Moreover, reducing the sugar in both the cake base and crumb topping can help create a lighter version.
How to Store and Serve
Storage Tips:
- Store your cake in the fridge to keep it fresh for up to 5 days.
- If you plan to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. This will ensure it stays good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Serving Suggestions:
- It is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- For an even more indulgent experience, pair the cake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
FAQs
How do I keep the crumb topping from getting soggy?
To maintain the crumb topping’s crunch, make sure the cake is completely cooled before storing it in an airtight container.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid adding too much moisture to the cake.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
There are several options available. You can replace cream cheese with mascarpone, ricotta, or even a dairy-free alternative. For more options, take a look at this list of cream cheese substitutes.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How long does this cake last?
When properly refrigerated, this cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If frozen, it can last up to 2 months.
Strawberry Pie Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a fantastic dessert for all occasions. The combination of rich cream cheese, sweet strawberries, and a crunchy crumb topping is truly a match made in heaven. Whether you’re preparing it ahead of time or trying out a variation, this cake is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it!
If you liked this recipe, you might also enjoy making the Cream Cheese Pound Cake or the refreshing Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie for another delightful cream cheese dessert.