Making homemade strawberry desserts brings back the best childhood memories, like biting into a strawberry shortcake ice cream bar. Now, you can recreate that nostalgic flavor with this easy strawberry crunch topping recipe! Perfect for topping cakes, ice cream, and so much more, this recipe is quick, simple, and guaranteed to deliver a crispy, delicious result every time. Best of all, you only need 3 ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Topping
Recipe
This strawberry crunch topping recipe has a special twist that elevates it above the rest.
With this recipe, you get:
Ready in Minutes: From start to finish, this strawberry crunch topping comes together in under 15 minutes.
Simple Ingredients: You only need 3 ingredients to make this irresistible topping.
Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The secret ingredient, a pinch of salt, enhances the sweetness of the strawberry Jell-O and creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
For more information, see this article about the Maillard reaction.
Irresistible Texture: The combination of crunchy Oreos and the strawberry Jell-O creates an irresistible texture that will keep you coming back for more. The hint of salt also promotes better browning, giving the topping a beautiful golden color.
Versatile Topping: Use this strawberry crunch topping on ice cream, cakes, yogurt, pies, and so much more! It is so versatile! If you love quick and easy desserts, you might also like this strawberry shortcake cookies recipe.
Ingredients Needed
* 24 Golden Oreos
* 4 tablespoons butter, (melted)
* 1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jell-O
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Golden Oreos: While regular Oreos *can* be used, Golden Oreos offer a lighter, vanilla flavor that complements the strawberry beautifully. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies.
Strawberry Jell-O: For a low-sugar version, use sugar-free Jell-O. Be aware that this might slightly alter the texture of the final product. For a more natural strawberry flavor, consider using freeze-dried strawberry powder. You can also experiment with other Jell-O flavors like raspberry or cherry. You can learn more about Jell-O on its Wikipedia page.
Butter: Dairy-free butter alternatives can be used to make this recipe dairy-free.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Topping
This strawberry crunch topping recipe is so easy, you’ll want to make it all the time.
Get Started
Preheat oven to 350°F. Ensure your oven rack is in the center position for even baking.
Crush the Oreos
Crush the Golden Oreos into very small crumbles. You can use either a food processor, pulsing until finely crushed but not a powder, or place the Oreos in a plastic bag and pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin. They do not all have to be the same size. The filling is included in this—don’t scrape it out.
Combine Ingredients
Place the crumbled Oreos in a medium bowl, and add strawberry Jell-O powder and melted butter. Don’t forget the pinch of salt to the melted butter at this point! Mix gently to combine. The mixture will resemble wet sand.
Bake
Spread the mixture onto a greased baking sheet (or top the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat first). Spread the mixture in an even layer for consistent baking. Bake for 8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into pieces. The topping will crisp up as it cools.
Achieving Perfect Browning
Achieving perfectly browned strawberry crunch topping is all about evenness and control. Here’s how to get it right:
Even Layer: Ensure the mixture is spread in an even layer on the baking sheet. This prevents some parts from burning while others remain pale.
Oven Temperature Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurately heated. Even slight temperature variations can affect browning.
Baking Sheet Material: Light-colored baking sheets promote even browning. Avoid dark or insulated baking sheets, as they can lead to uneven results.
Salt Enhancement: The pinch of salt helps to control the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for browning, resulting in a more uniform color.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Here are my tips for perfect strawberry crunch topping, every time.
Pro Tips
* Use a food processor for even, fast crushing.
* Don’t over-bake; the topping will crisp up as it cools.
* Add a pinch of salt to the butter (the secret ingredient!).
* Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
* Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
* Experiment with other Jell-O flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
* Over-mixing the ingredients (leads to a tough topping).
* Using too much butter (makes the topping greasy).
* Baking at too high a temperature (burns the edges).
* Not spreading the mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
Serving & Storage
Strawberry crunch topping is incredibly versatile!
Serving Ideas
* Sprinkle on top of ice cream.
* Use as a topping for strawberry shortcake.
* Make a strawberry crunch cake.
* Stir into yogurt for a crunchy treat.
* Top pies and cheesecakes.
* Sprinkle on buttered toast.
* Roll ice cream sandwiches in it.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness. The topping will last for about 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This strawberry crunch topping recipe is your ticket to adding a burst of flavor and texture to your favorite desserts. It’s quick, easy, uses only 3 ingredients, and tastes absolutely incredible. Don’t forget the secret ingredient—a pinch of salt—for enhanced flavor and perfect browning. Print the recipe and make it today! For another great treat, try these chocolate crinkle cookies.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about making and storing strawberry crunch.
How long does strawberry crunch last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, strawberry crunch topping will stay fresh and crispy for up to 5 days.
Can strawberry crunch be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze strawberry crunch for longer storage. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before using.
What are some other uses for strawberry crunch?
Besides topping cakes and ice cream, strawberry crunch is delicious on yogurt, pies, cheesecakes, and even toast!
Can I substitute gluten-free cookies?
Yes, you can use gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies as a substitute for Golden Oreos. Ensure they are crushed well.
Can I use sugar-free Jell-O for a low-sugar version?
Yes, you can use sugar-free strawberry Jell-O. Be aware that the texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste great.
What other Jell-O flavors can I use to change the flavor?
Experiment with other flavors like raspberry, cherry, or even orange for a unique twist! You could even top these red velvet cupcakes with a raspberry secret with strawberry crunch topping.
How do I prevent my strawberry crunch from getting soggy?
Ensure the topping is completely cool before storing it in an airtight container. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as the humidity can make it soggy.
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Easy Strawberry Crunch Topping Recipe: Just 3 Ingredients!
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Ensure your oven rack is in the center position for even baking.
- Crush the Golden Oreos into very small crumbles. You can use either a food processor, pulsing until finely crushed but not a powder, or place the Oreos in a plastic bag and pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin. They do not all have to be the same size. The filling is included in this—don't scrape it out.
- Place the crumbled Oreos in a medium bowl, and add strawberry Jell-O powder and melted butter. Don't forget the pinch of salt to the melted butter at this point! Mix gently to combine. The mixture will resemble wet sand.
- Spread the mixture onto a greased baking sheet (or top the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat first). Spread the mixture in an even layer for consistent baking. Bake for 8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into pieces. The topping will crisp up as it cools.
Notes
