Hey y'all! If you're searching for a nostalgic, mouthwatering treat that’s both fun and easy to whip up, this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe is your new go-to dessert. Moist, fluffy cake infused with sweet strawberry Jell-O and topped with creamy whipped topping and a crunchy shortbread crumble – it’s a slice of bliss at birthdays, summer cookouts, or any family gathering. Ready to wow your friends and satisfy that sweet tooth? Let's get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
- Easy to make with simple grocery store ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Bursting with bright, fresh strawberry flavor and a delightful crunch.
- Crowd-pleaser for birthdays, BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight treats.
- Make-ahead friendly, so you can prepare it the night before your event.
- Customizable with fun flavor and topping options for endless variety.
Ingredients for Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz), plus ingredients called for on the box (eggs, oil, water)
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 15 golden sandwich cookies (like Golden Oreos)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh strawberries, sliced (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch pan with nonstick spray. Mix and bake the cake per box directions, then let it cool for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes across the cake about 1 inch apart, reaching almost to the bottom.
Step 3: Add Strawberry Jell-O
In a bowl, whisk together strawberry Jell-O and 1 cup boiling water until dissolved. Stir in ½ cup cold water. Pour the Jell-O mixture evenly over the cake, filling the holes. Place cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let it set.
Step 4: Make the Crunch Topping
Pulse freeze-dried strawberries, golden sandwich cookies, and melted butter in a food processor or blender until crumbly (but not powdery).
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Sprinkle strawberry crunch mixture generously on top. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices, if desired.
Step 6: Serve
Chill for at least 1 more hour before slicing for best results. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes for Perfect Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
- For best results, let the cake cool and set fully before adding toppings; check out these cake baking tips for more advice.
- You can swap freeze-dried strawberries with regular dried strawberries, but the crunch won’t be quite as prominent.
- Use full-fat whipped topping for the creamiest layer and best stability.
Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe Variations
- Lemon Crunch Poke Cake: Replace strawberry Jell-O and freeze-dried strawberries with lemon versions and add lemon zest to the topping.
- Chocolate Strawberry Poke Cake: Use chocolate cake mix and drizzle with chocolate syrup before adding whipped topping.
- Mixed Berry Crunch Cake: Add a combination of raspberry and blueberry Jell-O and berries to the topping.
Required Equipment for Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon (for poking holes)
- Food processor or blender
- Rubber spatula
Storage Instructions for Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, keep the crunchy topping in a separate airtight container and sprinkle just before serving if making ahead.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Perfect alongside a fresh berry salad or a tall glass of cold milk.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat.
- Pair with strawberry lemonade or your favorite bubbly beverage for summer parties.
Pro Tips for Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
- For ultra-moist cake, poke plenty of holes and pour Jell-O mixture while the cake is still warm (learn more cake tips).
- Crush cookies and strawberries for the topping just before serving to maintain maximum crunch.
- Chill the finished cake overnight for easy slicing and neat layers—perfect for serving a crowd!
Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe FAQ
- Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream?
A: Yes, just make sure it’s stabilized so it holds up in the fridge—learn how at Sally's Baking Addiction. - Q: Can I make Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free sandwich cookies for the crunch topping. - Q: How far in advance can I prepare this cake?
A: You can make the cake and Jell-O part 2 days ahead; add whipped topping and crunch just before serving for best texture.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (includes chilling)
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 2 cups whipped topping
- 1 cup crushed golden sandwich cookies (such as Golden Oreos)
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
Instructions
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1Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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2Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions using 1 cup water, ½ cup vegetable oil, and 3 eggs. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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3Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.
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4In a bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in ½ cup cold water. Pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, focusing on the holes. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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5Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
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6Mix together crushed golden sandwich cookies and freeze-dried strawberries to make the crunch topping. Sprinkle it generously over the whipped topping before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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