Prepare to embark on a journey of culinary delight with a dessert that’s sure to impress: Strawberry Crunch Tres Leches Cake. This delectable treat combines the classic flavors of tres leches with the vibrant sweetness of strawberries and a delightful crunch from crushed cookies. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it the perfect indulgence for any occasion. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of this irresistible dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (and required ingredients listed on the box, such as eggs, water, and oil)
- 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz.) evaporated milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups crushed strawberry-flavored cookies or wafer crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Whipped topping or whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box.
- Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the box, using the eggs, water, and oil.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake according to the instructions. Once baked, let the cake cool completely.
- Make the Tres Leches Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
- Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed strawberry-flavored cookies or wafer crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the cooled cake.
- Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in and fill the holes.
- Spread the sliced strawberries evenly over the top of the cake.
- Add the Crunchy Topping:
- Sprinkle the prepared crunchy topping over the strawberries, covering the entire surface of the cake.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to fully absorb the tres leches mixture.
- Before serving, garnish with whipped topping or whipped cream.
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Cut the chilled cake into squares and serve each slice with a dollop of whipped topping or whipped cream on top. Enjoy the decadent combination of flavors and textures!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Use Different Flavors: Experiment with different cake mix flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or lemon for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans over the top of the cake along with the crunchy topping.
- Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce: For an extra burst of strawberry flavor, drizzle strawberry sauce over each slice of cake before serving.
- Make Mini Versions: Instead of baking a large cake, you can make individual servings by using muffin tins or ramekins.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make a keto-friendly version of this cake, replace the strawberry cake mix with a keto-friendly cake mix or make your own using almond flour and sugar-free sweeteners. Use heavy cream and unsweetened almond milk for the tres leches mixture and skip the crunchy topping or use crushed nuts instead of cookies.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk and use sugar-free sweeteners in the tres leches mixture. Skip the crunchy topping or use a low-carb cookie alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw them before using and drain any excess liquid.
Q: Can I make this cake in advance? A: Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to absorb the tres leches mixture fully.
Q: Can I use a different type of cookie for the crunchy topping? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of cookie or wafer for the crunchy topping. Graham crackers or vanilla wafers would also work well.
Q: Can I substitute whipped topping with whipped cream? A: Yes, you can use either whipped topping or whipped cream for garnish, depending on your preference. Freshly whipped cream adds a homemade touch, while whipped topping offers convenience.
Q: How long will this cake stay fresh in the refrigerator? A: The cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
In conclusion, Strawberry Crunch Tres Leches Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. With its moist cake soaked in a creamy tres leches mixture, fresh strawberries, and crunchy topping, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every blissful bite of this irresistible creation. Enjoy the sweet symphony of flavors!
