Why Make This Recipe

Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is a delightful and easy dessert perfect for any occasion. With its moist cake soaked in strawberry gelatin and topped with a creamy frosting and crunchy Oreo topping, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a fun and refreshing treat, especially in warm weather. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make, even if you’re new to baking!

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

Ingredients:

One (15.25) box white cake mix, plus ingredients on back of box to prepare white cake
3 oz box strawberry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
8 oz (One package) cream cheese, softened
1½ cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
18-20 Golden Oreos, coarsely crushed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 oz box strawberry gelatin powder
Fresh strawberries for garnish, optional but recommended

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350° degrees F. Grease a 9×13 light metal rectangular baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside.
Prepare your cake mix according to the package directions for a white cake. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the package instructions for about 22–25 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted near the center.
Let the cake cool completely. Once cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the cake.
In a small pitcher, mix the first box of strawberry gelatin with boiling water. Whisk until the powder dissolves. Add the cold water and mix well.
Pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the holes in the cake. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it set.
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment until smooth and fluffy, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Transfer it to a medium bowl.
In the stand mixer bowl (cleaned), add heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla. Use the whisk attachment to beat on high until stiff peaks form, about 5–7 minutes.
Fold the cream cheese mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined. Spread the frosting evenly over the chilled cake.
For the topping, mix crushed Golden Oreos, melted butter, and the dry strawberry gelatin powder in a medium bowl until well mixed.
Sprinkle the mixture over the frosted cake, pressing it down to adhere. If you like, add fresh strawberries on top for garnish.
Store any leftover cake covered in the fridge. The longer the cake sits, the softer the topping will become.

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

Slice the cake into squares and serve it on dessert plates. It’s best to enjoy it cold, and the fresh strawberries give a lovely touch to each bite. This cake is great for parties, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home!

How to Store Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

Keep any leftover cake stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3–4 days. Just remember that the topping may soften a bit the longer it sits in the fridge.

Tips to Make Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

Make sure to let the cake cool completely before poking holes and adding the gelatin. This prevents it from breaking apart.
If you want extra flavor, consider using fresh strawberries in the cake batter or even in the frosting.
Use a hand mixer if you don’t have a stand mixer. It works just as well!

Variation

You can try using different flavors of gelatin, like raspberry or cherry, to mix it up. This can be fun depending on the season or your personal taste!

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just add the topping right before serving for the best texture.

2. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor of cake mix you like. Chocolate or lemon cake could create a fun twist.

3. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with whipped topping or whipped cream from a can. The texture will be different, but it will still taste good!

Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake