Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

A delightful twist on a classic dessert, this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake brings together the sweet nostalgia of strawberry crunch ice cream bars with the ease of a box cake mix. With strawberry gelatin soaked into moist white cake and topped with a fluffy cream cheese layer and crunchy cookie topping, this dessert is perfect for any celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Captures the flavor of classic strawberry crunch bars
• Simple and quick using a boxed cake mix
• Beautiful and festive presentation
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and potlucks
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
• Strawberry gelatin (2 boxes, 3 oz each)
• Boiling water
• Cold water
• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Whipped topping or heavy cream
• Golden Oreos or vanilla sandwich cookies
• Unsalted butter
• Freeze-dried strawberries (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare and bake the cake according to box instructions in a 9×13″ pan. Let it cool completely.
2. Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake, about an inch apart.
3. In a bowl, dissolve one box of strawberry gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold water. Pour evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until combined. Fold in whipped topping or whipped cream until fluffy.
5. Spread the frosting evenly over the chilled cake.
6. For the crunch topping, pulse Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor. Mix with melted butter and the remaining box of dry strawberry gelatin until crumbly.
7. Sprinkle the crunch topping over the frosted cake. Press gently to adhere. Chill before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12–15
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 25–35 minutes
• Chill time: 2–4 hours (best if overnight)
• Total time: 3–5 hours

Variations

• Use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a homemade touch
• Add a swirl of strawberry jam to the gelatin for extra fruitiness
• Try vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies instead of Oreos for crunch
• Use a strawberry cake mix for a double strawberry punch
• Add a cream layer using instant cheesecake or pudding mix

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 3–5 days. The topping may soften slightly over time.
• Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?

Yes, just bake it in a 9×13″ pan and cool completely before adding the gelatin.

2. How deep should I poke the holes?

About ¾ of the way through the cake is ideal to let the gelatin soak in without making the bottom soggy.

3. Can I make this without gelatin?

Yes, but you’ll lose the signature “poke” effect. Consider using pureed strawberries mixed with syrup for a natural alternative.

4. What if I don’t have a food processor for the topping?

Crush cookies in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin, then mix with the other ingredients.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. It’s best when chilled overnight, allowing flavors to meld.

6. Will the topping stay crunchy?

It stays crunchy for 1–2 days. After that, it may soften slightly in the fridge.

7. Can I use cream cheese frosting instead?

Yes, just keep it light so it balances with the sweet topping and filling.

8. Is this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cake mix and certified gluten-free cookies for the topping.

9. Can I make this with other fruit flavors?

Yes! Try raspberry or orange gelatin and matching cookie crumbs for variety.

10. Do I need to refrigerate the leftovers?

Yes, because of the cream cheese and whipped topping, store it in the fridge.

Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves sweet, creamy, and crunchy layers. It’s colorful, fun, and full of strawberry flavor, making it a show-stopper for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s bound to become a new family favorite.

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