This Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is a fun and colorful dessert! It’s made with a moist vanilla cake, filled with yummy strawberry flavor, and topped with crunchy bits for the perfect texture.
You’ll love the way it looks and tastes! I can’t resist sneaking bites of the crunchy topping—it’s a little flavor explosion! Perfect for any gathering or just a sweet treat at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Mix: White or yellow cake mix forms the base. I usually stick with yellow for a rich flavor, but you could also use vanilla cake for a lighter taste. If you want, a homemade cake can be just as delightful!
Strawberry Gelatin: Jell-O adds a fun, fruity flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, there are sugar-free options. You could also try a different flavor like raspberry or cherry if you don’t have strawberry on hand.
Frozen Strawberries: These contribute to the fruitiness. I like to thaw them, but if you have fresh strawberries, they also work great. Just slice them up! Keep in mind, if using fresh, you will need to add a bit of sugar to enhance sweetness.
Whipped Topping: I usually go for Cool Whip for convenience, but homemade whipped cream can elevate this dessert if you’re up for it! Sweeten it to your taste for a personal touch.
Crushed Vanilla Wafers or Graham Crackers: These add the crunch factor! If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free graham crackers. Some people even use crushed Oreos for a twist!
How Do I Ensure the Gelatin Soaks into the Cake Well?
Getting the gelatin into the cake is key to flavor. Use a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly throughout the cooled cake, about every inch apart. This creates spaces for the gelatin to seep in.
- Make sure the gelatin mixture is still slightly warm when you pour it over the cake.
- Pour slowly, letting it settle into the holes—don’t rush this step!
- Chill the cake for enough time to let the gelatin fully set; this keeps it moist and delicious.
Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen strawberries, thawed and drained (save juice)
- 1 cup boiling water
For Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1/3 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies or graham cracker crumbs
- Fresh strawberries, sliced and whole, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. The baking time will depend on your cake mix instructions, usually around 25-30 minutes. It’s a simple and rewarding treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Prepare and bake the cake as directed on the box, then let it cool completely in the pan.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling:
While the cake is cooling, mix the strawberry gelatin powder with 1 cup of boiling water in a bowl, stirring well until fully dissolved. Next, add the thawed and drained strawberries to the gelatin mixture and let it cool for about 10 minutes, but don’t let it set just yet!
3. Create Poke Holes:
Once your cake is completely cooled, take the handle of a wooden spoon (or any similar tool) and poke holes all over the top of the cake, about every inch apart. This will help the gelatin soak into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
4. Pour the Strawberry Mixture:
Slowly pour the strawberry gelatin and strawberry mixture over the cake, ensuring that the liquid seeps into all the holes. This layering is where the magic happens!
5. Chill the Cake:
Place the cake in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set. This is a great time to clean up the kitchen and prepare for the delicious dessert ahead.
6. Add the Toppings:
After the cake has chilled and the gelatin has set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake. Next, sprinkle the crushed vanilla wafers or graham cracker crumbs over the whipped topping for that delightful crunch.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh sliced strawberries and place a whole strawberry on top for a beautiful finish. Keep the cake refrigerated until you are ready to serve. Cut into squares, plate up, and enjoy the refreshing taste of your Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake! It’s a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Gelatin?
Absolutely! While strawberry gives this cake its signature flavor, you can use any flavor of gelatin you like, such as raspberry or cherry, to create your preferred taste. Just remember to adjust the fruits used accordingly for the best flavor combination!
What Can I Use Instead of Whipped Topping?
If you prefer a homemade touch, you can whip up your own heavy cream instead of using store-bought whipped topping. Just beat heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will add a personal flair to your cake!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it well-covered to maintain its freshness. Just be aware that the crunchy topping may soften over time.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just substitute the regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, and make sure that any other ingredients, like the wafers or graham crackers, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of this poke cake!
