Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
This Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is a fun and nostalgic dessert that combines layers of soft cake, sweet strawberry gelatin, a creamy topping, and a crunchy cookie-strawberry layer on top. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something colorful and delicious!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box white or vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients required on the package)
1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
For the Cream Topping:
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
For the Strawberry Crunch Layer:
1 package (14.3 oz) Golden Oreos
1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1 – Bake the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan. Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box and bake. Once baked, set it aside to cool completely.
Step 2 – Prepare the Gelatin:
In a medium bowl, whisk the strawberry gelatin with 1 cup of boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup of cold water.
Step 3 – Poke and Fill the Cake:
With the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes across the cooled cake. Pour the gelatin evenly over the surface so it seeps into the holes. Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Step 4 – Make the Cream Topping:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fluffy and combined. Spread this mixture over the chilled cake.
Step 5 – Create the Strawberry Crunch:
In a food processor, pulse the Golden Oreos with freeze-dried strawberries until coarse crumbs form. Add melted butter and pulse again until the mixture resembles damp sand.
Step 6 – Add the Crunch Layer:
Sprinkle the cookie-strawberry crumble evenly over the creamy topping.
Step 7 – Chill & Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow everything to set. Slice into squares and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
