Imagine biting into a dreamy slice of strawberry cake layered with luscious cheesecake and topped with a buttery, sweet strawberry crunch. That’s exactly what this Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch delivers — a show-stopping dessert that combines nostalgic ice cream truck vibes with elegant, creamy decadence.

Perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or any time you want to impress, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. The vibrant pink cake layers cradle a thick, smooth cheesecake center, while the exterior is encrusted with a strawberry shortcake crumble that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a strawberry fanatic, this one’s for you.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch

This dessert is a celebration in every bite. It’s a delightful mash-up of two favorites: classic strawberry cake and rich cheesecake, all wrapped in a nostalgic strawberry crunch coating. Not only is it stunning on the plate, but it’s also easy to slice, serve, and keep guests coming back for seconds.

You’ll love the contrast of textures—fluffy, moist cake, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy topping. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare with a few time-saving shortcuts, making it a top-tier pick for parties and holidays.

What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

You can use any boxed strawberry cake mix you love—Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, or even a store brand. The goal is to have a vibrant pink color and soft, moist texture. Want to intensify the strawberry flavor? Add a tablespoon of strawberry gelatin powder to the mix before baking.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch

Before you start baking, gather these essentials. Each plays a crucial role in creating the ultimate dessert experience:

Strawberry Cake Mix: The sweet and fruity base of your cake layers. A boxed mix works great here.
Eggs, Oil & Water: These bring your cake mix to life and ensure fluffy, moist layers.
Cream Cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer—use full-fat for that ultra-creamy texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cheesecake filling.
Eggs (for cheesecake): Help the cheesecake set and slice cleanly.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances both the cake and cheesecake with warm flavor notes.
Golden Oreos: Crushed to form the delicious crunchy exterior.
Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Packed with flavor and color, perfect for that signature strawberry crunch.
Butter: Helps bind the crunch topping together and adds richness.

How To Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch

Step 1: Bake the Strawberry Cake Layers

Prepare the boxed cake mix as directed on the package using eggs, oil, and water. Divide the batter between two 8-inch round cake pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Pour into a springform pan and bake in a water bath until just set. Chill thoroughly—this step is key for clean layering.

Step 3: Prepare the Crunch Topping

Pulse Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor. Drizzle in melted butter and pulse until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a plate, top with the chilled cheesecake, then the second cake layer. Frost the entire cake lightly with whipped cream or buttercream. Press the strawberry crunch topping onto the sides and top.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing. This helps everything set up beautifully.

Serving and Storing Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch

This decadent dessert serves 10 to 12 people, making it a perfect choice for gatherings and special occasions. For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water.

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to meld and the crunch topping holds up well thanks to the butter.

What to Serve With Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch?

Fresh Berries

Add a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a juicy contrast.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of homemade whipped cream makes it even more indulgent.

Strawberry Sauce

Drizzle with strawberry syrup or compote for extra berry flavor.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve with a scoop on the side for an ultimate dessert combo.

Mint Leaves

For a touch of freshness and color, garnish each slice with mint.

Lemonade or Iced Tea

Perfect drinks to complement this sweet and creamy dessert.

Chocolate Sauce

A little drizzle takes this treat into sundae territory.

Want More Cheesecake Dessert Ideas?

If you loved this Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch, you’re in for a treat with these other recipes:

Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake — A luscious mix of cherries and rich chocolate.
Magic Lemon Cobbler — Light, bright, and full of citrusy magic.
Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake — Layers of deep chocolate with tart berry contrast.
Nutella French Toast Casserole — A breakfast twist on dessert cravings.
Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake — Pure chocolate-meets-cheesecake indulgence.