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Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Bars

Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Bars are made with a soft cake mix base, fluffy cream cheese frosting, and a buttery strawberry cookie topping.They are easy to slice, share, and make ahead.Perfect for parties, potlucks, and summer desserts.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

For the Bars

  • 1 box strawberry cake mix
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg

For the Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Shortcake Crunch Topping

  • 18 to 20 Golden Oreos coarsely crushed
  • 3 oz strawberry gelatin powder dry
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 13x9-inch light metal baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang for easy lifting. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
  • In a large bowl, combine the dry strawberry cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Stir with a spatula until a soft dough forms.
  • Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, using clean hands if needed to create a smooth layer.
  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely.
  • To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy, about 1 minute. Transfer it to another bowl.
  • In the same mixing bowl, add the heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until stiff peaks form, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Gently fold the whipped cream cheese into the whipped cream until smooth and fully combined.
  • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Bars. Chill in the refrigerator while you make the topping.
  • In a medium bowl, mix the crushed Golden Oreos, dry strawberry gelatin powder, and melted butter until evenly coated.
  • Sprinkle the crunch topping generously over the frosted bars and gently press it into the frosting.
  • Slice into bars and serve right away, or chill until ready to serve.

Notes

  • For neater slices, refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes before cutting.
  • These bars are ideal for birthdays, summer gatherings, and holiday dessert tables.
  • Fresh strawberries on top add a bright, juicy finish.
  • Keep the topping slightly chunky for the classic shortcake crunch texture.