Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake – Berry Bliss in Every Bite 🍓

There’s something about the combination of strawberries and cake that feels instantly nostalgic and joyful. This Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake takes that comfort to the next level with a rich, buttery crumb, a luscious strawberry swirl center, and a golden cookie crunch topping that’s inspired by those classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, brunch, or just because, this stunning dessert is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser—and it’s easier to make than it looks!

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Why I Love This Recipe

This cake delivers flavor and flair in every bite. The bold pink swirl (thanks to strawberry gelatin), the tender vanilla base, and that pop of real strawberry filling make it an indulgent treat. But it’s the crunch topping—made from crushed Golden Oreos and strawberry gelatin—that gives it a unique texture and nostalgic flavor twist. It’s show-stopping and satisfying.

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Ingredients

For the Pound Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2½ cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin mix (like JELL-O)

For the Strawberry Center:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1–2 tsp strawberry puree or pink food coloring

For the Crunch Topping:

• 10 Golden Oreos (or shortbread cookies), crushed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp strawberry gelatin mix

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Step-by-Step Instructions

🍓 Make the Strawberry Filling

1. Combine chopped strawberries and sugar in a small saucepan.
2. Simmer over medium heat until juicy and bubbling.
3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Let cool completely.

🧁 Prepare the Pound Cake

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt or tube pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.
6. Divide batter in half. Stir strawberry gelatin into one half to create a vibrant pink batter.
7. Spoon plain batter into prepared pan. Add pink batter on top and gently swirl with a knife.
8. Add cooled strawberry filling in the center—avoiding contact with the edges.
9. Bake for 60–70 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

✨ Make the Crunch Topping

1. Combine crushed cookies, melted butter, and strawberry gelatin mix. Set aside.

🎨 Glaze & Decorate

1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle over the cooled cake. Swirl in strawberry glaze or color if using.
3. Sprinkle generously with strawberry crunch topping.

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Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
• For even more flavor, add strawberry extract to the pink batter.
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing so it doesn’t slide off.
• Add crunch topping just before serving for maximum texture.

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Perfect Pairings

Pair this bold berry cake with these fan-favorite treats:

• These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – a double-decadence hit
• This Edible Cookie Dough – perfect for snackers
• This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – a chilled, creamy contrast
• These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – for extra nibbles
• These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies – fruit-forward and cozy

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Storage & Leftovers

• Fridge: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To serve: Let come to room temp or microwave gently for 10–15 seconds.

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Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a full-blown celebration. With its rich layers, fruity surprises, and that showstopping topping, it’s a treat you’ll return to again and again.

Tried it? Share your creation with @chefmaniac and tell us how you made it your own. Follow for more dessert magic and flavor inspiration!