Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

As the warm breeze of summer whispers through the air, it’s the perfect time to indulge in a dessert that’s as vibrant and joyful as the season itself. Enter the Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake, a dessert that captures the very essence of summer. This cake is not just a treat for the palate but a celebration of the season’s bounty.

Imagine a cake that perfectly balances the sweetness of strawberries with a delightful crunch, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. This Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is the epitome of summer indulgence, combining the juicy freshness of strawberries with a moist, tender cake and a sprinkle of playful crunch.

Why This Cake is a Must-Try

1. Ease of Preparation: This cake is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, it turns the art of baking into a joyful, stress-free experience.
2. Bursting with Flavor: Each slice is a journey through a garden of flavors, with the strawberry gelatin infusing the cake with a vibrant, fruity essence that is both refreshing and satisfying.
3. Texture Galore: The smooth, creamy frosting and crunchy cookie topping create a delightful contrast with the softness of the cake, making every bite a delightful surprise.

Personalize Your Cake

1. Gelatin Variations: Feel free to experiment with different gelatin flavors like cherry or raspberry to put a unique twist on this classic.
2. Cookie Choices: While Golden Oreos add a special touch, traditional chocolate Oreos or any vanilla sandwich cookies can be just as delightful.
3. Chocolate Drizzle Option: For those who adore the combination of strawberry and chocolate, a drizzle of chocolate syrup can add an extra layer of decadence.

Useful Tips for the Perfect Cake

• Cake Mix Flexibility: Any brand of white cake mix will do, whether it’s a well-known brand or a store’s generic version.
• Cookie Alternatives: No Oreos? No problem. Any vanilla sandwich cookie will work just as well.
• Fresh Strawberry Garnish: Elevate the cake’s presentation and taste by adding freshly sliced strawberries on top.

Strawberry Crunch Cake FAQs

• What type of cream cheese should I use? A traditional bar of cream cheese works best. You can opt for low-fat versions, but they may alter the frosting’s texture.
• Alternative for poking holes in the cake? The back of a wooden spoon is a perfect tool for creating those essential holes for the gelatin.
• Can I use any brand of gelatin? Absolutely! Whether it’s a well-known brand or a store’s generic version, any gelatin will infuse the cake with delightful flavor.

In conclusion, the Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s joy and abundance. Easy to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for any summer gathering, this cake is sure to become a beloved addition to your dessert repertoire. So, why wait? Dive into the world of strawberries and cream, and let this cake be the highlight of your summer feasts!

Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

"Try Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake for layers of strawberry delight and a satisfying crunch. Easy and irresistibly delicious!"

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Poke cake, Strawberries, Strawberry cake

Prep Time: 4 hours hours 40 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 5 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 12

Equipment

Baking Pan

Wire Rack

Liquid Measuring Glass

Hand Mixer

Food Processor

Ingredients

CAKE:

• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup cold water
• 3 oz. box strawberry gelatin
• One 15.25 oz white cake mix plus ingredients needed on the back (follow the instructions on the box)

CRUNCH TOPPING:

• 18-20 golden Oreos coarsely chopped
• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
• 3 oz. box strawberry gelatin

FROSTING:

• 8 oz. cream cheese softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Optional for Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries
• Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

• FOR THE CAKE:
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. and generously spray a 9×13 baking pan with non-stick spray. Set aside.
• Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and bake.
• Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, use a dowel or straw to poke holes through the cake.
• Prepare the gelatin by adding 3 oz. of strawberry Jello to a large liquid measuring glass, then top with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin powder is dissolved.
• Add 1 cup of cold water and whisk until incorporated.
• Pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring all holes are filled. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
• FOR THE FROSTING:
• In the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a whisk attachment, add the cream cheese and cream for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth.
• In another medium bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk on high speed with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
• Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
• Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake and smooth.
• FOR THE CRUNCH TOPPING:
• In a food processor, pulse the golden Oreos a few times until coarse crumbs are achieved.
• Transfer half of the crumbs to a small bowl and add 3 oz. of strawberry Jell-o powder and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Use a fork to combine until the Oreo crumbs are coated.
• Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into the food processor with the plain Oreos and pulse.
• Combine the strawberry Oreo mixture into the food processor and pulse a few times to mix the crumbs.
• Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
• Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries if desired and serve.
• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Notes

Cake Mix Flexibility: Any brand of white cake mix will do, whether it's a well-known brand or a store's generic version.
Cookie Alternatives: No Oreos? No problem. Any vanilla sandwich cookie will work just as well.
Fresh Strawberry Garnish: Elevate the cake's presentation and taste by adding freshly sliced strawberries on top.