Pin it
This DIY strawberry crumble coating brings back that fantastic crunchy layer from those beloved childhood ice cream treats, but it's way better because you can add it to literally anything. After trying so many different versions, I've discovered that just three basic items mix together to create that nostalgic strawberry flavor with the perfect crunch we all remember.
This past weekend, I scattered this topping over some vanilla ice cream for my little ones, and they beamed with the exact delight I used to feel whenever I heard the ice cream truck music during my childhood years.
Key Components
- Golden Oreos: The vanilla wafer and cream center provide the ideal foundation. Standard or gluten-free versions work equally well.
- Strawberry Jell-O Powder: This adds that classic strawberry taste and lovely pink hue.
- Melted Butter: Just the right amount to bind everything while keeping that distinctive crunchiness.
Pin it
Step-by-Step Guide
- Cookie Breakdown:
- Snap Oreos into chunky bits. Use a food processor to pulse until finely ground. Keep the filling in - it's crucial for the right consistency. If using a plastic bag and rolling pin method, crush until you've eliminated all bigger chunks.
- Combining Ingredients:
- Put cookie crumbs in a big bowl. Add the Jell-O powder (don't add any water!). Slowly pour in your melted butter. Stir until everything's mixed well. You want it somewhat lumpy but still crumbly overall.
- Heating and Setting:
- Lay mixture in a thin layer on a parchment-lined tray. Smash any big clumps. Bake just until firm, around 8 minutes. Allow to cool fully before using. It'll get crunchier as it sits.
I got totally hooked on making this topping after creating a strawberry shortcake ice cream cake for my daughter's party. We now always keep some ready in our kitchen for quick dessert improvements.
Heat Level Importance
A medium oven (350°F) firms up the mixture without scorching the sensitive cookie bits. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes of baking.
Keeping It Fresh
Store in a sealed container at room temp. I've noticed that small mason jars do the job perfectly and they look pretty sitting out on your countertop too.
Fun Ways To Use It
While it's amazing on ice cream, try adding it to yogurt bowls, as a cake decoration, or even sprinkled over buttered toast for a fun breakfast option.
Mix It Up
Experiment with other Jell-O flavors for exciting new mixes. The orange version tastes just like a creamsicle!
Pro Kitchen Advice
- Use quick, short bursts when crushing cookies for the most uniform pieces.
- Get the mixture as flat as possible on your baking sheet for extra crispiness.
- Add a moisture-absorbing packet when storing to keep things crunchy in damp weather.
Whenever I whip up this strawberry crunch mixture, it takes me straight back to summer afternoons and waiting for ice cream trucks. It's not just food - it's a way to bring those special childhood experiences back and pass them down to kids today.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can I keep it?
- Store it in a sealed container at room temperature for about a week or more.
- → Is there a gluten-free version?
- You can swap in gluten-free Golden Oreos or vanilla-style cookies.
- → Can I change the flavor?
- Switch up the Jell-O flavor to experiment with different tastes.
- → Should I take out the Oreo filling?
- Nope! Crush the whole cookies, filling and all.
- → What can I use it on?
- Sprinkle it on cakes, yogurts, ice cream treats, or anything that needs a crispy touch!