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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Cake**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and grease or line a **mini cake pan** (or cupcake pan).
2. In a bowl, whisk together **flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt**.
3. In another bowl, beat **butter and sugar** until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
4. Alternately add the **dry ingredients and buttermilk**, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
5. Gently fold in the **chopped strawberries**.
6. Divide the batter among the mini cake molds and bake for **18–22 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
### **Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling**
1. In a mixing bowl, beat **cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla** until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the **heavy cream** until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Chill until ready to use.
### **Step 3: Prepare the Crunch Topping**
1. In a bowl, mix **crushed vanilla wafers (or graham crackers), melted butter, and freeze-dried strawberries**.
2. Stir until well combined and slightly crumbly.
### **Step 4: Assemble the Mini Cakes**
1. Slice each mini cake in half horizontally.
2. Spread or pipe a layer of **cream cheese filling** on the bottom half, then place the top half back on.
3. Spread a thin layer of filling on top and sprinkle generously with the **crunch topping**.
### **Serving & Storage Tips**
– **Serve chilled** for a refreshing treat.
– Store in an **airtight container in the fridge** for up to **3 days**.
– For a twist, drizzle with **strawberry glaze or white chocolate** before serving!
## **Variations & Customization**
✨ **Lemon Zest** – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy kick.
✨ **Chocolate Twist** – Mix mini chocolate chips into the cake batter.
✨ **Nutty Crunch** – Add chopped pecans or almonds to the topping for extra texture.
These **Strawberry Cream Cheese Crunch Mini Cakes** are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. Whether for a celebration or a simple treat, they bring a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch.
Would you like any modifications or a gluten-free version? 😊
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