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Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake brings together everything you crave in a retro-inspired treat The moist vanilla base drinks up vibrant strawberry flavor with a creamy cloud on top all crowned with an irresistible cookie crunch If you need a no fuss crowd dessert this cake never fails
The first time I made this cake was for a friend’s birthday and everyone asked for seconds It now shows up at every summer barbecue in our family
Ingredients
- White cake mix: provides a soft sweet and super easy base Go for a quality brand for the best flavor
- Strawberry Jello: delivers bold color and bursty berry flavor Choose the original as generic may taste faint
- Boiling water: helps the Jello dissolve smoothly Room temp water won’t work as well for texture
- Cold water: helps the Jello set so use water straight from the fridge
- Instant vanilla pudding: brings classic rich creaminess
- Cold milk: pulls everything together and helps pudding thicken quickly Use whole milk for extra decadence
- Whipped topping: gives airy texture and holds well on the cake Thaw before using for the best spread
- Golden Oreos or shortbread: bring buttery nostalgia Quality cookies make the crunch tastier
- Freeze dried strawberries or strawberry gelatin for the topping: supply that real berry hit Freeze dried add tang and natural color
- Melted butter: helps the crunchy topping stick and toast up just right Use unsalted for balance
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bake the Cake:
- Mix the cake batter following the box instructions but bake it in a glass 9 by 13 inch pan for even cooking Cool for about 15 minutes to prevent melting the Jello layer
- Soak with Jello:
- Dissolve the strawberry Jello completely in boiling water until no grains remain Stir in cold water to begin setting Poke deep holes all over the warm cake with a wooden spoon handle or thick straw Pour the strawberry Jello slowly to fill every hole and let it soak to the bottom Chill in the fridge for at least one hour to let flavors mingle
- Prepare the Cream:
- Whisk instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk for two minutes until thick and mousse like Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping so it stays fluffy Layer this cream across the chilled cake using a spatula to smooth edges
- Make the Crunch:
- Crush Golden Oreos and freeze dried strawberries together in a food processor until sandy but still chunky Add melted butter and toss until every crumb is glistening
- Finish and Chill:
- Shower the cream topping generously with your strawberry crunch Chill again to help layers set perfectly At serving time slice directly from the pan
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The crunchy topping is always my favorite part My kids love helping crush the cookies and sneak bites from the bowl I remember making a version of this as a child for Fourth of July picnics and it always disappeared first
Storage Tips
Keep the cake covered and refrigerated It will stay moist and delicious for up to three days If prepping ahead add the cookie crunch just before serving for maximum crispness
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap Golden Oreos for any vanilla sandwich cookie or use classic Nilla wafers Shortbread is lovely for extra butteriness For the fruit layer raspberry or cherry Jello create fun twists and even lemon pudding works if you want a brighter flavor
Serving Suggestions
Cut generous squares and top each with sliced fresh strawberries for a juicy finish This cake works beautifully on dessert tables and packs up well for picnics or party trays
Cultural and Historical Context
Poke cakes gained fame in the 1970s when boxed mixes and shortcut desserts were all the rage The Jello soaking technique ensures bright bold flavor and moist texture with almost no fuss This spin combines the familiar with a playful bakery style crunch
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the strawberry crunch topping?
Pulse cookies with freeze-dried strawberries or gelatin powder, blend with melted butter, then sprinkle over the creamy layer for a crunchy finish.
- → Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, while white cake mix gives a classic base, yellow or vanilla cake mix can add a richer taste without overpowering the strawberry notes.
- → What can I substitute for freeze-dried strawberries?
Strawberry gelatin powder or finely crushed strawberry candies can work, but freeze-dried strawberries provide the best texture and flavor.
- → How long does the dessert need to chill before serving?
After adding the Jell-O and creamy layer, chill for at least two hours to let the flavors soak in and layers firm up.
- → Can the cake be made in advance?
Yes, prepare the dessert a day ahead and store covered in the fridge. Add the strawberry crunch topping just before serving for the best texture.