Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1/2 cup vegetable shortening

2 cups granulated sugar

6 oz strawberry Jell-O powdered mix (with 3 tablespoons reserved for topping)

5 eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup sour cream, at room temperature

1/3 cup hot water

For the Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
6 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Crunch Topping:

15 Golden Oreo sandwich cookies
3 tablespoons reserved strawberry Jell-O powdered mix
3 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Thoroughly grease a bundt pan and set aside.

Step 2: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or using a handheld mixer), combine the butter, shortening, and granulated sugar. Scoop out 3 tablespoons of the Jell-O mix and set it aside for the topping. Add the remaining Jell-O to the bowl.

Step 3: Mix on medium-low speed until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 5: Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 7: With the mixer on low, alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream to the batter, starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined.

Step 8: Add the hot water and mix on low speed until incorporated.

Step 9: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 10: Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 11: Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it, then invert onto a serving plate. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 12: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. Beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Step 13: Add powdered sugar, then milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting reaches a spoonable consistency. Set aside.

Step 14: For the topping, pulse Golden Oreo cookies in a food processor until you have large crumbs.

Step 15: Stir the Oreo crumbs together with the reserved 3 tablespoons of Jell-O mix in a small bowl.

Step 16: Pour melted butter over the crumb mixture and stir well to coat evenly.

Step 17: Once the cake is cooled, spoon the frosting over it. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the frosting and gently pat to help it stick to the cake.

Tips & Variations

Make sure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter and frosting.

For a berry boost, add fresh strawberries on top along with the crunch topping.

You can substitute the Golden Oreos with vanilla wafer cookies for a different texture.

If you prefer a lighter frosting, reduce the cream cheese and add more milk for a thinner spread.

FAQs

Can I use regular Jell-O flavors instead of strawberry?

Yes, you can substitute strawberry Jell-O with other flavors like raspberry or cherry to create a different taste, but keep in mind this will alter the final flavor profile.

Is it necessary to use both butter and shortening in the cake?

Using both butter and shortening helps achieve a tender crumb with a moist texture. Butter adds flavor while shortening contributes to the cake’s softness and structure.