Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

This strawberry crunch poke cake transforms simple ingredients into a nostalgic dessert that tastes like those good old strawberry shortcake ice cream bars from the ice cream truck. The combination of moist cake, strawberry jelly filling, fluffy whipped topping, and that irresistible crumbly topping creates a dessert that disappears fast at any gathering.

I first made this for my nieces birthday party when I needed something that would feed a crowd. The kids went wild for it but honestly the adults cleared their plates even faster asking for the recipe before leaving.

Ingredients

• White or vanilla cake mix plus ingredients listed on box. Creates the perfect mild base that lets the strawberry flavor shine through.
• Strawberry JellO powder. Infuses the cake with bright strawberry flavor and gorgeous color.
• Boiling water. Activates the gelatin for proper setting.
• Cold water. Helps cool the mixture so it doesnt make your cake soggy.
• Whipped topping. Creates that fluffy cloud like layer reminiscent of ice cream.
• Golden Oreos. The secret to the signature strawberry shortcake cookie crunch.
• Freeze dried strawberries. Adds real strawberry flavor and beautiful pink color to the topping.
• Unsalted butter. Binds the crumble together and adds richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare and Bake Cake

Mix your cake according to package directions. This usually means combining the dry mix with eggs oil and water but follow your specific box instructions. Pour the batter into a well greased 9x13 glass baking dish. Glass works best because it lets you see the beautiful layers. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for exactly 25 to 28 minutes. You want the cake fully baked but not overbaked since it will continue to set as it cools.

Create the Poke Holes

Allow your cake to cool for about 10 minutes until it feels set but is still warm. Take the handle end of a wooden spoon or a thick drinking straw and methodically poke holes throughout the entire cake surface spacing them about an inch apart. Be sure to press all the way to the bottom of the pan without scraping the bottom. This creates channels for the jello to flow into.

Prepare and Add the JellO

In a medium bowl dissolve the strawberry JellO powder in 1 cup of boiling water stirring for a full 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Add 1/2 cup cold water and stir again. While the cake is still warm carefully and slowly pour the entire JellO mixture over the cake. Take your time here pouring slowly and evenly across the entire surface allowing the liquid to seep down into those holes you created.

Chill Thoroughly

Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This step is absolutely crucial. Overnight chilling is even better as it allows the JellO to fully set and infuse flavor throughout the cake. Patient bakers are rewarded with better texture and flavor.

Add Whipped Topping Layer

Once completely chilled spread your thawed whipped topping in an even layer across the entire surface. Create beautiful swirls with the back of a spoon for visual appeal. The contrast between the pink cake and white topping is part of what makes this dessert so inviting.

Create the Signature Crunch Topping

Place Golden Oreos in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin until you have a mixture of fine crumbs and small chunks. The texture variety is important. In a bowl mix these crumbs with crushed freeze dried strawberries and melted butter until you have a crumbly mixture that holds together slightly when pressed.

Finish with Crunch Layer

Sprinkle the strawberry crunch mixture generously over the entire cake. Do this right before serving for maximum crunch or about an hour before for slightly softer texture that still maintains some crispness.

Save

The freeze dried strawberries are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered them after making this with just JellO powder for years. The real strawberry flavor they add to the crumble topping takes this cake from good to absolutely unforgettable. My family now requests this for nearly every summer gathering.

Storage Suggestions

This cake needs to be stored in the refrigerator due to the dairy in the whipped topping. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days though the crumb topping may soften slightly over time. The flavor actually improves after a day as the JellO fully infuses the cake. I dont recommend freezing this particular dessert as the texture of both the whipped topping and crunch layer will suffer.

Easy Adaptations

If youre in a hurry you can use strawberry cake mix instead of white for even more strawberry flavor. No freeze dried strawberries on hand? Substitute an equal amount of strawberry JellO powder in the crumb mixture. For a more decadent version fold 8 ounces of softened cream cheese into your whipped topping before spreading it on the cake. Want a from scratch version? Replace the box mix with your favorite white cake recipe just make sure its sturdy enough to hold up to the JellO infusion.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake directly from the refrigerator as its best when cold. Cut with a sharp knife dipped in hot water between slices for the cleanest presentation. A small fresh strawberry on top of each slice adds a beautiful touch for special occasions. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or a simple glass of milk. For adult gatherings consider serving with glasses of prosecco or rosé wine for a delightful summer dessert experience.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes! While white or vanilla cake provides a classic canvas for the strawberry flavor, you could also use yellow cake, strawberry cake for extra berry flavor, or even chocolate cake for a chocolate-covered strawberry effect.

→ How far in advance can I make this dessert?

You can make this dessert 1-2 days in advance. For best results, add the crunch topping just a few hours before serving to maintain its texture. The cake actually improves as it sits in the refrigerator, allowing the Jell-O to fully set and flavors to meld.

→ Can I use fresh strawberries instead of Jell-O?

For the filling, Jell-O works best as it sets properly and creates the signature poke cake texture. However, you can certainly add diced fresh strawberries to the whipped topping layer or as a garnish before serving.

→ What can I substitute for Golden Oreos?

If Golden Oreos aren't available, you can use vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even graham crackers. Any sweet, crunchy cookie that pairs well with strawberry will work for the crunch topping.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate leftovers?

Yes, leftovers should be refrigerated due to the whipped topping and Jell-O components. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

→ Can I make this dessert without dairy?

Yes, use a dairy-free cake mix and substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. Many stores now carry dairy-free whipped toppings that would work perfectly for this dessert.