Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
Yield: 12-16 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (varies by cake mix)
Chill Time: At least 1 hour
Total Time: ~2 hours
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box white cake mix
- Prepare according to the package instructions (you’ll typically need eggs, water, and oil).
- 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 12 oz can evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3 oz package strawberry Jello, divided
Topping
- 8 oz container Cool Whip (thawed)
- You can use additional Cool Whip for garnish if desired.
- 25 Golden Oreos (~1 package)
- 1/4 cup salted butter (melted)
- Fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (or the temperature specified on the cake mix package).
- Prepare the cake batter according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a 9×13 glass baking dish.
- Bake as directed on the box, typically 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Milk Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 package (1.5 oz) of strawberry Jello
- Whisk the mixture until the Jello powder is fully dissolved and the milk mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Poke and Soak the Cake
- Once the cake is cool, use a bamboo skewer, chopstick, or fork to poke small, evenly spaced holes all over the cake.
- Pro Tip: Poke down to the bottom of the cake for maximum absorption.
- Slowly spoon the strawberry milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
Step 4: Make the Crunch Topping
- Place 25 Golden Oreos in a large plastic zip-top bag. Crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor.
- Transfer the crumbs to a medium bowl. Add:
- 1/4 cup melted salted butter
- Remaining 1.5 oz of strawberry Jello powder
- Stir until the mixture resembles a sandy, crumbly texture.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Remove the chilled cake from the refrigerator. Spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the Cool Whip. Press gently to create a smooth, flat surface.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- For added flair, garnish with fresh strawberries, additional Cool Whip dollops, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Storage Tips
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The cake is best enjoyed within the first 2 days, as the crunch topping may soften over time.
Serving Suggestions
- This cake is perfect for summer barbecues, birthdays, or potlucks!
- Pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade for a delightful dessert experience.
Enjoy your Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake—a nostalgic and flavorful treat that’s sure to impress! 🍓💖