If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than the strawberry crunch poke cake. This crowd-pleasing dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the nostalgic crunch of a classic ice cream bar, all in the form of a moist and creamy cake. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, potluck, or just a weeknight treat, this strawberry poke cake will become your go-to recipe!
What is a Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake?
A strawberry crunch poke cake is a fun and flavorful dessert made by poking holes into a baked cake and filling it with a strawberry-flavored mixture, which soaks into the cake, making it extra moist. It’s topped with whipped cream and a crunchy topping reminiscent of the classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars you enjoyed as a kid. The combination of textures and flavors makes this cake irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, and water)
1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin (like Jell-O)
1cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
For the Topping
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1cup cold milk
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 package Golden Oreos (about 25 cookies)
1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries (optional, for extra crunch and color)
4 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions for Making Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it. In a large bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the greased dish and bake according to the cake mix directions, typically for 25-30 minutes. Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about an inch apart. These holes will allow the strawberry gelatin mixture to seep into the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin
In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved, then add 1/2 cup cold water to the mixture. Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, making sure to pour directly into the holes so it can soak into the cake. Once you’ve added all the gelatin, refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Prepare the Crunch Topping
While the cake is chilling, it’s time to make the strawberry crunch topping. Crush the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries (if using) in a food processor until they form coarse crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can place the cookies and strawberries in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with the melted butter to form a crunchy, crumbly topping.
Step 5: Make the Whipped Topping Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding thickens. Fold in the whipped topping until smooth. This creamy layer adds the perfect contrast to the strawberry-flavored cake.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has chilled and the gelatin has set, spread the whipped topping mixture evenly over the top of the cake. Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping generously over the whipped topping layer, pressing it down slightly so it sticks.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Your strawberry crunch poke cake is now ready to serve! Slice into squares and enjoy this delightful mix of fruity flavors, creamy topping, and crunchy texture.
Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
Make ahead: This cake tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to fully blend together. You can prepare the cake the day before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Golden Oreo substitution: If you can’t find Golden Oreos, you can substitute with vanilla wafers or graham crackers for the crunchy topping.
Freeze-dried strawberries: Adding freeze-dried strawberries to the topping not only enhances the flavor but also gives it a lovely pink color. You can find them in most grocery stores or online.
Storing and Serving Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because of the whipped topping, it’s best served chilled. This cake is also freezer-friendly—just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.
FAQs About Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
What is a strawberry crunch poke cake?
A strawberry crunch poke cake is a moist, flavorful dessert made by poking holes into a baked cake, filling those holes with strawberry gelatin, and then topping the cake with whipped cream and a crunchy layer that resembles the texture of a strawberry shortcake ice cream bar.
Can I use a different cake mix for strawberry crunch poke cake?
Yes! While white or yellow cake mix is typically used, you can experiment with strawberry or vanilla cake mix for even more strawberry flavor. You could also try a homemade cake recipe if you prefer.
How do I make the cake extra moist?
The gelatin mixture that’s poured into the holes of the cake ensures it stays moist and flavorful. For an even richer texture, you can brush the cake with a bit of strawberry syrup before adding the whipped topping.
Do I have to use Golden Oreos for the crunch topping?
Golden Oreos are commonly used for the crunchy topping, but you can substitute with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or even shortbread cookies. Adding freeze-dried strawberries enhances both flavor and color, but it’s optional.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?
Yes! Homemade whipped cream can be used in place of Cool Whip or any other store-bought whipped topping. To make it, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
How far in advance can I make strawberry crunch poke cake?
This cake can be made a day in advance and actually tastes better when chilled for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can refrigerate it for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze strawberry crunch poke cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake. It’s best to freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. The cake will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How do I store leftover strawberry crunch poke cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The whipped topping will stay fresh, and the crunchy topping will maintain its texture for a couple of days before softening.
Can I add fresh strawberries to the cake?
Yes, you can add fresh strawberries either in the cake itself, as a topping, or in the gelatin mixture for more flavor. Layering fresh strawberry slices between the whipped topping and crunch layer adds a fresh, fruity bite.
Why is my crunch topping soft?
The crunchy topping can soften if it absorbs too much moisture from the whipped topping. To avoid this, apply the crunch topping just before serving or store the topping separately and sprinkle it over each piece right before eating.
Is the freeze-dried strawberry in the topping necessary?
No, freeze-dried strawberries are optional, but they enhance both the strawberry flavor and the visual appeal of the topping by adding a nice red color and extra crunch.
Can I make this cake without gelatin?
Yes! If you prefer not to use gelatin, you can substitute strawberry syrup or pureed fresh strawberries mixed with a little sugar to pour over the cake. This will still give the cake plenty of flavor and moisture without the need for gelatin.
Conclusion
This strawberry crunch poke cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with delicious strawberry flavor, and topped with a nostalgic crunchy topping that will transport you back to your favorite childhood ice cream treats. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.