Sweet, creamy, and irresistibly crunchy
This strawberry crunch salad is the kind of nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert that disappears fast at potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings. With layers of fluffy cream filling, juicy strawberries, and a buttery golden crunch topping, every bite is the perfect balance of creamy and crispy. It’s quick to assemble, made with simple ingredients, and ideal for busy days when you want something impressive without turning on the oven for hours. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ or as a sweet weeknight treat, this strawberry crunch salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 8–10
📝 Ingredients List
Crunch Layer
- 20 golden sandwich cookies, crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 small box strawberry gelatin mix (dry)
Creamy Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz whipped topping (thawed)
Fruit Layer
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spatula
- 9×9-inch dish or similar serving dish
- Small saucepan or skillet
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Make the crunch topping 🍪
In a bowl, mix crushed cookies with melted butter and dry strawberry gelatin until evenly coated. - Toast the crunch
Spread mixture in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly crisp. Let cool completely. - Prepare the creamy layer 🥣
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Gently fold in whipped topping until light and airy. - Assemble the salad 🍓
Spread the cream mixture evenly into your serving dish. Top with sliced strawberries. - Finish with crunch
Sprinkle cooled strawberry crunch evenly over the top. - Chill & serve ❄️
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving so flavors set nicely.
💡 Pro Tips
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 12 hours in advance, but add the crunch topping just before serving for max crispiness.
- Fruit swap: Try blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry blend.
- Extra crunch: Add chopped nuts to the topping for texture.
- Storage: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.