Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares
Introduction
Have you ever wondered how to combine the lusciousness of chocolate-covered strawberries with the comforting texture of crumb cake? The answer lies in our delightful recipe for Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares. This indulgent treat not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a unique twist on two beloved desserts. In just 90 minutes, you can create a dessert that will impress your family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this recipe!
Ingredients List
To create your Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup rolled oats (optional)
- For the Chocolate Dip:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (for smooth melting)
Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt.
- Sugar Alternatives: Consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier option.
Timing
This Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares recipe takes approximately 90 minutes from start to finish, which is 20% less time than the average cake recipe. Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 20-30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- In another bowl, cream together ½ cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in the 2 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ cup sour cream.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the 1 cup diced strawberries.
Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup melted butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ cup rolled oats (if using). Mix until crumbly.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cake batter. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Dip
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Meanwhile, melt the 1 cup chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon coconut oil in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Cut the cooled cake into squares, dip each square halfway into the melted chocolate, and let it set on parchment paper.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 16 servings):
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make your Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Natural Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
- Fruit Additions: Mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for added nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares warm or at room temperature. Here are some creative serving ideas:
- A la Mode: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Garnish: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
- Coffee Companion: Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cake to cool completely before dipping in chocolate helps maintain the shape and texture.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To keep your Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze un-dipped squares in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before dipping in chocolate.
Conclusion
In summary, the Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares offer a delectable blend of flavors and textures that are sure to delight. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
Q2: How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and dip it in chocolate just before serving.
Q4: What can I substitute for chocolate chips?
A: You can use white chocolate chips or even dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
A: Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter and yogurt for a vegan version.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Crumb Cake Squares
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup rolled oats (optional)
- For the Chocolate Dip:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (for smooth melting)
- Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt.
- Sugar Alternatives: Consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a healthier option.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- In another bowl, cream together ½ cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in the 2 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ cup sour cream.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the 1 cup diced strawberries.
Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup melted butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ cup rolled oats (if using). Mix until crumbly.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cake batter. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Dip
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Meanwhile, melt the 1 cup chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon coconut oil in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Cut the cooled cake into squares, dip each square halfway into the melted chocolate, and let it set on parchment paper.