best Strawberry Crumb Cake You’ll Fall in Love With

introduction

There’s something magical about a strawberry crumb cake that makes it impossible to resist. Maybe it’s the way the juicy strawberries meld with the buttery streusel topping, or how its moist, tender cake base feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re looking for the perfect dessert to wow your guests or a comforting treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, this recipe is a must-try. It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to make any occasion special. Ready to fall in love with your next favorite homemade dessert? Let’s dive in!

Key Benefits of This Strawberry Crumb Cake

This strawberry crumb cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a delightful experience that combines flavor, texture, and simplicity in one irresistible package.

Bursting with Fresh Flavor: Juicy strawberries add natural sweetness and a pop of vibrant color, making every bite feel like a celebration of summer.

• Perfectly Balanced Texture: The buttery streusel topping creates a satisfying crunch, beautifully complementing the soft, moist cake beneath.
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or a simple treat for yourself, this cake fits every occasion.
• Beginner-Friendly Recipe: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, it’s a fantastic choice even for those new to baking.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Add a hint of cinnamon to the streusel, swap strawberries for other fruits, or drizzle with icing for a personal twist.

Ingredients for Strawberry Crumb Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Creates a soft yet sturdy base for the cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Adds extra lift and lightness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of all ingredients.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Brings richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake without overpowering the strawberries.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and ensures a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• ½ cup buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist and soft.
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (hulled and diced) – The star of the show, bringing a burst of fruity goodness.

For the Streusel Topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour – The base of the crumbly topping.
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – A hint of spice for extra warmth.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Helps form those golden, buttery crumbs.

Optional Garnish:

• Powdered sugar for dusting – Adds a touch of elegance.
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream – For an indulgent serving suggestion.

Pro Tip: Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen ones can work too—just thaw and pat them dry before using to avoid excess moisture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Crumb Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the ideal temperature for even baking. Prepare your 9-inch round or square pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures the cake doesn’t stick. While the oven heats up, wash and hull your strawberries, then chop them into small pieces. This will help distribute their natural sweetness evenly throughout the cake.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to combine. In a separate, larger bowl, use a mixer to beat together the butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and creamy. This step is key to creating a fluffy texture in your cake. Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring they’re fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, comforting flavor.

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the batter light and airy. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, ensuring an even distribution without overworking the batter.

Step 3: Prepare the Streusel Topping

To make the streusel, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add the melted butter and stir until it forms crumbly bits. These crumbs will add a crunchy texture and a burst of sweetness to the cake’s surface.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Generously sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter, allowing the crumbs to form a crunchy, golden layer as it bakes. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, The top should be golden and firm to the touch.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Give the cake about 10 minutes to cool in the pan, then pop it onto a wire rack to cool down completely. Once it’s cool, sprinkle with powdered sugar for a delicate finish or top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

This strawberry crumb cake is now ready to enjoy—a perfect balance of moist cake and crunchy topping, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Crumb Cake

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are key to achieving a vibrant, juicy cake. When selecting your berries, go for ones that are fully ripe, plump, and firm. Overripe strawberries can release excess moisture into the batter, resulting in a soggy texture. If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, frozen strawberries will work in a pinch—just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

When combining your dry and wet ingredients, it’s important not to overmix. Stir just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake with a tough texture, which isn’t ideal for a light, fluffy crumb cake. For best results, fold the strawberries into the batter gently.

3. Add a Dash of Lemon Zest

For an extra pop of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to your batter. The citrusy notes complement the sweetness of the strawberries, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering the fruit’s natural taste. 

4. Streusel Texture Matters

It’s the streusel topping that gives this cake its awesome crunch. Ensure the butter is fully melted before mixing it with the flour and sugar to create the perfect crumbly topping. The texture should be slightly coarse, with some larger chunks for variety. This will bake into a golden, crispy finish that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake beneath.

5. Check for Doneness Early

Ovens can vary in temperature, so it’s important to check the cake 5 minutes before the recommended baking time. Use a toothpick or cake tester to ensure the center is fully set—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready. Be sure not to overbake, as this can cause the cake to dry out.

6. Let the Cake Cool Completely

Allow your cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents the cake from breaking apart while still warm. Cooling completely ensures that the texture sets, and you get that perfect slice every time.

7. Store Properly for Freshness

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To extend the freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll be able to perfect your strawberry crumb cake and impress everyone with your baking skills. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Crumb

here are some serving suggestions that will elevate this cake to the next level.

1. Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

Nothing complements a warm slice of strawberry crumb cake like a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The light, airy texture of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the cake’s crumbly topping and tender interior. For an extra touch, you can flavor the cream with a splash of vanilla or a hint of lemon zest to tie in the citrus notes.

2. Top with a Scoop of Ice Cream

For a truly indulgent dessert, serve your strawberry crumb cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts over the warm cake, creating a delightful combination of temperatures and textures. You can also try other flavors like cinnamon or caramel for a unique twist.

3. Serve with Fresh Berries

Enhance the fruity flavors of your cake by serving it with a side of fresh berries—whether it’s more strawberries or a mix of blueberries, raspberries, or even a handful of blackberries. The natural sweetness and slight tartness of the berries balance out the cake’s richness, making it a refreshing addition.

4. Make It a Breakfast Treat

Strawberry crumb cake doesn’t have to be just for dessert! Serve it as a sweet addition to your breakfast or brunch spread. Pair a slice of cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and you have a perfectly balanced morning treat. The crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with a light drink.

5. Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

For a simple yet elegant finish, lightly dust your cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This creates a subtle sweetness and makes the cake look even more inviting. You can also drizzle a little bit of honey or maple syrup over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.

6. Enjoy with a Glass of Sweet Wine

If you’re serving this cake at a gathering, consider pairing it with a glass of sweet wine or champagne. A crisp Prosecco or light Moscato can enhance the cake’s fruity flavors, making for a delightful dessert pairing.

These simple serving suggestions will elevate your strawberry crumb cake, making it a versatile dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer it plain or with a topping, each slice offers something special.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crumb Cake

This strawberry crumb cake offers a delightful balance of moist cake, sweet strawberries, and crunchy streusel, making it a versatile treat for any time of day. Perfect as a dessert, morning coffee companion, or afternoon snack, its light yet satisfying nature keeps you coming back for more. The recipe is simple to prepare, using just a few ingredients, and can be easily customized with seasonal fruits like blueberries, peaches, or apples. Whether for a special occasion or casual indulgence, this adaptable and flavorful cake is sure to impress and become a go-to favorite in your baking repertoire.

FAQs About Strawberry Crumb Cake

Here are some frequently asked questions that will guide you through any potential challenges or adjustments you might need to make.

1. Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow it to thicken and sour, mimicking the tanginess of buttermilk. This substitution works well and keeps the cake moist.

2. How do I store leftover strawberry crumb cake?

To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months if you want to enjoy it later—just be sure to wrap it tightly to preserve its freshness.

3. How can I make my streusel topping extra crunchy?

For a crispier streusel topping, use cold butter when making the crumbs. This helps create larger chunks that bake into a crunchier texture. You can also add oats to the streusel mixture for added texture and flavor, making it even more delicious.

These FAQs should help you troubleshoot any issues you might face while baking your strawberry crumb cake. With these tips in mind, you’re all set to create a perfect cake every time!

best Strawberry Crumb Cake You’ll Fall in Love With

 Enjoy a delicious, easy-to-make strawberry crumb cake with a buttery streusel topping.Perfect for dessert, snacks,or brunch everyone will love it!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 10 slices

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries hulled and diced

For the Streusel Topping:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar packed
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional
• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted –

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Calcium: 60mg
• Iron: 1.2mg