Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box white or vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
For the 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 Topping:
- 1 package (14.3 oz) Golden Oreos
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and bake in the prepared pan.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Make the Gelatin:
- In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of cold water.
- Poke the Cake:
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cooled cake.
- Pour the prepared gelatin evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled cake.
- Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- In a food processor, pulse the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries until they form coarse crumbs.
- Add the melted butter and pulse a few more times until the mixture is combined and resembles wet sand.
- Add the Crunch Topping:
- Sprinkle the strawberry crunch mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
- Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the topping to set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Chilling Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 4 hours | Servings: 12 servings
20 Most Popular Questions and Their Answers Related to Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
- Q: Can I use homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?
- A: Yes, you can use your favorite homemade white or vanilla cake recipe.
- Q: Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
- A: Yes, you can experiment with other flavors, but strawberry pairs best with the crunch topping.
- Q: How should I store the cake?
- A: Store the cake in the refrigerator covered tightly with plastic wrap.
- Q: How long does the cake last in the fridge?
- A: The cake can be stored for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Q: Can I freeze this cake?
- A: It’s not recommended to freeze this cake as the gelatin and cream cheese topping may not hold up well.
- Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
- A: Freeze-dried strawberries provide the best texture for the crunch topping. Fresh strawberries may make it soggy.
- Q: What if I don’t have a food processor?
- A: You can crush the cookies and strawberries in a resealable plastic bag using a rolling pin.
- Q: Can I use a different type of cookie for the crunch topping?
- A: Yes, vanilla wafers or graham crackers can be used, but the flavor will be slightly different.
- Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
- Q: What’s the best way to slice the cake?
- A: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
- Q: Can I add fresh fruit on top of the cake?
- A: Yes, fresh strawberries or other berries can be added for extra decoration and flavor.
- Q: Can I use light or fat-free cream cheese?
- A: Yes, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
- Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
- A: Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used, but it may not hold up as well over time.
- Q: Can I add additional flavors to the cream cheese topping?
- A: Yes, a hint of lemon or almond extract can add a nice touch.
- Q: How do I prevent the gelatin from seeping to the bottom of the cake?
- A: Ensure the cake is cooled completely and pour the gelatin slowly and evenly.
- Q: Can I use a different type of pan?
- A: A 9×13 inch pan works best for even layers, but you can use a similar-sized pan if needed.
- Q: Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
- A: Use a gluten-free cake mix and cookies to make a gluten-free version.
- Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter for the topping?
- A: Yes, but butter gives a richer flavor.
- Q: Can I use a different kind of frosting?
- A: The cream cheese topping is recommended for the best texture and flavor combination.
- Q: How can I make the cake more moist?
- A: Ensure not to overbake the cake and follow the gelatin poking steps carefully.
30 Tips and Secrets to Achieve the Perfect Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Boil Water Fully: Make sure the water is at a rolling boil to properly dissolve the gelatin.
- Cool Cake Completely: Let the cake cool fully before poking holes and adding gelatin.
- Even Holes: Poke evenly spaced holes to ensure even gelatin distribution.
- Pour Gelatin Slowly: Pour slowly to ensure it seeps into the holes properly.
- Chill After Gelatin: Refrigerate the cake after adding gelatin to set properly.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth topping mixture.
- Avoid Overbeating: Don’t overbeat the cream cheese mixture to maintain a light texture.
- Gently Fold Cool Whip: Fold in the Cool Whip gently to keep the mixture airy.
- Crush Oreos Well: Ensure Oreos are crushed to a coarse texture, not too fine.
- Even Crunch Layer: Spread the crunch topping evenly for consistent texture.
- Use Fresh Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Ensure freeze-dried strawberries are fresh for the best flavor.
- Press Crunch Topping: Lightly press the crunch topping to help it adhere to the cream cheese layer.
- Chill Before Serving: Chill the assembled cake before serving to set all layers.
- Cut With Clean Knife: Use a clean, sharp knife for neat slices.
- Extra Decoration: Add fresh strawberries on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cream cheese mixture and adjust sweetness with powdered sugar if needed.
- Layer Ingredients Carefully: Spread each layer evenly to ensure uniform taste in each bite.
- Use Quality Cake Mix: Use a good-quality cake mix for the best base.
- Prevent Soggy Topping: Add crunch topping just before serving to maintain crispiness.
- Opt for High-Quality Gelatin: Use a high-quality gelatin brand for the best results.
- Grease Pan Well: Ensure the pan is well-greased to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Even Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Avoid Overbaking: Check the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh eggs and dairy for the best flavor and texture.
- Room Temperature Cool Whip: Ensure Cool Whip is fully thawed for easier mixing.
- Proper Storage: Store the cake covered to prevent it from drying out.
- Seasonal Variations: Experiment with seasonal fruits for topping variations.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on the crunch topping for added texture.
- Presentation: Serve on a decorative platter for an appealing presentation.
Enjoy your delicious and perfectly crafted Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake!