This Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is a fun and fruity dessert with layers of moist cake, creamy filling, and a crunchy strawberry topping. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing cake that combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with a nostalgic crunch topping, making it a hit at parties, family gatherings, or just as a special treat at home.
Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
I love making this strawberry crunch poke cake because it’s so vibrant and fun, both in flavor and appearance. The moist cake absorbs the strawberry gelatin, making it extra juicy and flavorful, while the cream topping adds richness. The crunchy strawberry topping, made with crushed cookies and strawberry flavor, gives it that extra texture and flavor that takes this cake over the top. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this cake never disappoints.
This cake pairs perfectly with Rich Banana Bread Recipe for a delightful dessert spread, or serve it with Funnel Cake Bites Recipe for a fun, sweet combo.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
- Colorful and Fun: The bright red strawberry gelatin and crunch topping make this cake as fun to look at as it is to eat.
- Easy to Make: Using simple ingredients like cake mix and gelatin, this cake comes together with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is great for serving at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Nostalgic Flavor: The crunchy strawberry topping brings back memories of classic strawberry ice cream bars, with a delicious twist.
Main Ingredients for Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
- White Cake Mix – The base of the cake, which is light and fluffy, allowing the strawberry flavor to really shine.
- Strawberry Gelatin – Infused into the cake for extra moisture and a punch of strawberry flavor.
- Whipped Topping – Creates a light and creamy layer on top of the cake.
- Golden Oreos – Used to make the crunchy topping, adding sweetness and texture.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries – Combined with the cookies to create a delicious strawberry crunch topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
Here’s how to make this colorful and flavorful strawberry crunch poke cake step by step:
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 1 box of white cake mix according to the package instructions and bake in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely.
- Tip: For extra flavor, you can add 1 teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the cake batter.
- Poke the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
- Pro Tip: Make sure the holes are spaced evenly and go deep enough so the gelatin can soak into the cake.
- Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 box of strawberry-flavored gelatin (3 oz) in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved, then add 1/2 cup of cold water. Pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let the gelatin set.
- Tip: Chilling the cake helps the gelatin fully absorb and firm up for a more flavorful and moist cake.
- Add the Whipped Topping: Once the gelatin has set, spread a layer of 1 tub (8 oz) of whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake.
- Variation: You can mix the whipped topping with softened cream cheese for a richer topping.
- Make the Crunch Topping: In a food processor, pulse 15 Golden Oreos and 1/2 cup of freeze-dried strawberries until finely crushed. Stir in 2 tablespoons of melted butter to create a crunchy topping.
- Pro Tip: For more crunch, you can leave some larger cookie pieces or add chopped nuts.
- Top the Cake: Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the whipped topping, pressing gently to help it stick. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of strawberry sauce for an extra pop of flavor and color.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve chilled. It’s the perfect dessert for warm days or any festive occasion.
- Serving Idea: Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent treat.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Make it Creamier: For a creamier topping, mix half whipped topping and half cream cheese for a thicker layer.
- Switch Up the Flavor: Try using raspberry or lemon gelatin for a fun twist on the classic strawberry flavor.
- How to Store: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How to Freeze: You can freeze the cake without the whipped topping for up to 2 months. Add the topping and crunch layer after thawing.
Health Benefits of Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
While this cake is a fun and indulgent treat, you can make it slightly healthier by using a lighter whipped topping or reducing the amount of sugar in the cake mix. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a bit of a health boost to this delicious dessert.
- Rich in Vitamin C: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune health.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: Use sugar-free gelatin and light whipped topping for a lighter version of this dessert.
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