Pin it
This DIY strawberry crunch coating brings back that wonderful crumbly layer from those beloved childhood ice cream bars, and it's way better because you can toss it on just about anything. After trying so many different versions, I've discovered that only three basic ingredients make that nostalgic mix of sweet strawberry taste and satisfying crackle.
Just last week, I scattered this over plain vanilla ice cream for my little ones, and they beamed with the exact excitement I felt whenever I heard the ice cream truck music playing in my neighborhood.
Key Components
- Golden Oreos: The vanilla wafer and creamy center make the ideal foundation. Standard or gluten-free options work just as well.
- Strawberry Jell-O Powder: This adds that classic strawberry kick and lovely pink hue.
- Melted Butter: Just the right amount to bind everything while keeping that iconic crunch intact.
Pin it
Step-by-Step Guide
- Cookie Smashing:
- Snap Oreos into chunks. Blitz in food processor until finely ground. Keep the filling in - it helps build the right consistency. If using a ziplock bag and rolling pin method, crush until you've got fine crumbs.
- Combining Ingredients:
- Empty cookie crumbs into a big mixing bowl. Sprinkle in Jell-O powder (don't add any water!). Drizzle melted butter in slowly. Stir until everything's well mixed. You want it somewhat lumpy but still crumbly.
- Oven Time and Cooling:
- Lay mixture in a thin layer on a parchment-lined tray. Crumble any big lumps. Bake just long enough to set, around 8 minutes. Cool completely before using. It'll get crunchier as it sits.
I got hooked on making this topping after creating a strawberry shortcake ice cream cake for my kid's party. These days we always have a container ready for quick dessert upgrades.
Heat Settings Count
A medium-hot oven (350°F) firms up the topping without scorching the sensitive cookie bits. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes.
How To Keep It Fresh
Store in any sealed container at room temp. I've found that little mason jars do the trick and they look pretty sitting out.
Fun Ways To Use It
While it's awesome on ice cream, try it with morning yogurt, as a cake decoration, or even dusted over buttered toast for a fun breakfast treat.
Mix It Up
Switch things up with different Jell-O flavors for exciting new tastes. The orange version makes an incredible creamsicle alternative!
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use quick, short pulses when processing cookies for the most uniform crumbs.
- Get the mixture as flat as possible on the baking sheet for extra crispiness.
- Pop in a moisture absorber when storing to keep it crunchy in damp weather.
Whenever I whip up this strawberry crunch topping, I can't help but drift back to sunny afternoons and chasing after ice cream trucks. It's not just food - it's a way to capture those special childhood memories and pass them along to our kids.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long will this stay fresh?
- Keep it in an airtight container at room temp, and it’ll keep for a week or more.
- → Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
- Sure, you can use gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies instead of Golden Oreos.
- → Can I try other flavors?
- Absolutely! Swap in any Jell-O flavor you’d like to mix things up.
- → Do I leave the Oreo filling in?
- Yes, crush the cookies with the filling still in.
- → What desserts can I sprinkle this on?
- It’s great for yogurt, cakes, ice cream sundaes, or even ice cream sandwiches.