What’s the ultimate dessert showstopper for any gathering? These stunning homemade cakes, one white and one red, are topped with fresh strawberries and crushed Oreo cookies for a quick and easy treat. Moist vanilla cake meets decadent chocolate in this family favorite recipe. Save this idea for your next special occasion.

two cakes with oreo cookies and strawberries on top, one is white and the other is red

Introduction

Imagine a dessert so divine, it combines the crunch of Oreo cookies, the sweetness of fresh strawberries, and the allure of two contrasting cakes – one a pristine white and the other a vibrant red. This show-stopping dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, using everyday ingredients that are readily available in most kitchens. With a bit of creativity and some simple steps, you can create a masterpiece that’s perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat any day of the week.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of Oreo cookies and strawberries provides a perfect balance of flavors, while the white and red cakes offer a visually appealing contrast. All the ingredients are easily accessible and affordable.
Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this dessert is relatively simple to prepare. It involves basic baking and assembly, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
Impressive results with minimal effort: The payoff is well worth the effort. The combination of textures and flavors, along with the striking visual presentation, makes for a dessert that is sure to impress friends and family without requiring an excessive amount of time or complicated techniques.

Key Ingredients

To make these stunning cakes, you’ll need a few key ingredients. For the cakes themselves, you’ll require all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter or oil, milk, and food coloring (red and white). For the topping, fresh strawberries and Oreo cookies are essential. You may also want to have some whipped cream or frosting on hand to help adhere the cookies and strawberries to the top of the cakes. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients, such as using almond milk instead of regular milk or opting for a different type of cookie if Oreos aren’t available. However, for the authentic look and taste, sticking as closely as possible to the original ingredients is recommended.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and melted butter or oil. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. Add a few drops of red food coloring to one bowl and mix until the color is evenly distributed. Leave the other bowl as is for the white cake.
Step 2: Pour each batter into the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Once the cakes are cool, you can start assembling the dessert. Place one cake on a serving plate or cake stand. If desired, use a bit of whipped cream or frosting to adhere Oreo cookies and sliced strawberries on top of the cake. Repeat the process with the second cake. You can arrange the cookies and strawberries in a pattern or simply place them on toppled over for a more rustic look.
Step 4: Final touches include adding any additional decorations, such as extra whipped cream around the base of the cakes or writing a message with chocolate sauce. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to a day before serving.

Handy Tips

To ensure the cakes are evenly colored, make sure to mix the batter well after adding the food coloring. For the white cake, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to dense cakes. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
For a more vibrant red color, use a high-quality food coloring. If you’re using a gel or paste, start with a small amount and add more as needed, as these can be very potent.

Heat Control

When baking the cakes, it’s crucial to maintain the right oven temperature. An oven that’s too hot can cause the cakes to burn on the outside before they’re fully cooked on the inside, while an oven that’s too cool can result in cakes that are undercooked or flat. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. The cakes are done when they’re lightly golden on the top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dessert comes from the Oreo cookies on top. To maintain their crunch, it’s best to add them just before serving. If you’re preparing the dessert ahead of time, you can prepare the cakes and store them in an airtight container, then add the cookies and strawberries just before serving. This will help keep the cookies fresh and crunchy.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

To make the cakes more moist, try adding an extra tablespoon or two of milk to the batter. This will help keep them tender and fresh for longer.
For a professional finish, use a turntable to display your cakes. This allows the dessert to be easily viewed from all sides, showcasing your handiwork.
Consider using a cake leveler to ensure your cakes are perfectly flat. This is especially useful if you’re stacking the cakes or want a smooth, even surface for decorating.

Storage Tips

The baked cakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you won’t be serving them within this timeframe, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap the cakes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Once the cakes are assembled with the Oreo cookies and strawberries, they’re best served immediately. However, they can be refrigerated for up to a day. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent moisture from accumulating.
For reheating, simply let the cake come to room temperature or warm it gently in the microwave. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the cake to dry out.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these cakes, presentation is key. Place each cake in a sturdy, decorative box or on a cake stand wrapped in clear plastic or a decorative bag. You can tie a ribbon around the box or stand for a more personalized touch. Consider adding a few extra Oreo cookies or strawberries on the side for an extra-special gift. For a more rustic look, you can wrap the cake in parchment paper and twine, adding a handwritten note or card for a personal message.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a unique flavor twist.
Creative toppings: Instead of Oreo cookies, consider using other types of cookies, such as chocolate chip or peanut butter, for a different flavor profile. Fresh fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or bananas can also be used for varied flavors and textures.
Ingredient swaps: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use almond milk or another non-dairy milk for a dairy-free option.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your cakes turn out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Try mixing the ingredients just until they’re combined, then stop mixing. If the cakes are too dry, they might have been overbaked. Check your oven temperature and baking time to ensure they’re accurate.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have certain ingredients, such as buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before using.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cakes while they’re baking. They’re done when they’re lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick is covered in wet batter, they need more time. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the pans with foil to prevent overbrowning.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, the baked cakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze them without the Oreo cookies and strawberries, then assemble just before serving.
Is it gluten-free? Not in its original form, but you can make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly for larger cakes.

Conclusion

Creating these two cakes with Oreo cookies and strawberries on top, one white and the other red, is a fun and rewarding baking project. With its striking appearance and delicious combination of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat any time of the year. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the dessert your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress and delight. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special!

Red White Oreo Cakes