Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: strawberry crunch poke cake! This beauty is a showstopper at any gathering with its vibrant layers of flavor that just scream summer. I remember the first time I made it; the kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of strawberries and cake, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! As you slice through the fluffy yellow cake, you uncover those gorgeous pockets of strawberry goodness soaked in Jell-O, topped with a cloud of whipped topping and crunchy graham crackers. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that keeps you coming back for more. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dessert that not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning on the table, this is the one! Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful strawberry crunch poke cake! Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering those delicious layers of flavor.

1 box yellow cake mix: This is the base of our cake, bringing a light and fluffy texture.
1 cup water: Essential for mixing with the cake mix to create that perfect batter.
1/3 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
3 large eggs: These help bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
1 cup strawberry Jell-O: This is where the magic happens—infusing the cake with sweet strawberry flavor!
1 cup boiling water: Used to dissolve the Jell-O, unlocking its vibrant color and flavor.
1 cup cold water: Balances out the temperature when mixing with the Jell-O.
1 container whipped topping (8 oz): This light and airy topping adds creaminess and a beautiful finish.
1 cup crushed strawberries: Fresh strawberries give the cake a juicy burst of flavor.
1 cup crushed graham crackers: A crunchy topping that adds texture and complements the softness of the cake.
1/4 cup strawberry syrup: A sweet drizzle that enhances the strawberry flavor and makes it look irresistible!

How to Prepare Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this gorgeous strawberry crunch poke cake! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll be snacking on this beauty in no time.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because we want our cake to bake evenly and beautifully.
Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with 1 cup of water, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and the 3 large eggs. Mix until everything is well-blended and smooth.
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. You want every corner to have that delicious cake!
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start smelling like a dream at this point!
While that’s baking, prepare the Jell-O. In a separate bowl, dissolve 1 cup of strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir it well until fully dissolved, then add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture. This will balance the temperature and make it easier to soak into the cake later.
Once the cake is baked and cooling slightly, poke holes all over the top using a fork—this step is key! The holes will allow the Jell-O to seep in and create those delicious strawberry pockets.
Pour the Jell-O mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. You might want to use a spatula to help it along.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is essential for the flavors to meld together and for the cake to set perfectly.
Finally, when you’re ready to serve, top it off with whipped topping, crushed strawberries, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers. Drizzle with strawberry syrup for an extra touch of sweetness!

You’re now ready to enjoy a slice of this delightful strawberry crunch poke cake that’s bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings!
Delicious layers of strawberry flavor that are simply irresistible.
Refreshing and light, making it a fantastic dessert for warm weather.
Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, sure to impress your guests.
Great for using up fresh strawberries—nothing beats that juicy burst!

Tips for Success

To make sure your strawberry crunch poke cake turns out perfectly, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t skip the chilling step; it really helps the Jell-O soak into the cake and intensifies the flavor. If you don’t have fresh strawberries on hand, you can use frozen ones—just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

When it comes to the whipped topping, feel free to use homemade whipped cream for an extra touch of richness if you’re up for it! And if you want to mix things up, try using a different flavor of Jell-O like raspberry or even orange for a fun twist. Lastly, remember to poke enough holes in the cake; this step is crucial for that deliciously moist texture. Happy baking!

Variations of Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this strawberry crunch poke cake! One of my favorite variations is to use different flavors of Jell-O. Try raspberry or peach for a unique twist that still brings that fruity goodness. You could even mix flavors—imagine a layer of strawberry and a layer of lemon!

For toppings, get creative! Instead of just crushed strawberries, you can add chopped fresh mint for a refreshing touch or even drizzle some chocolate syrup for those chocolate lovers out there. Another idea is to fold in some chopped nuts or toasted coconut into the whipped topping for an added crunch. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great way to make this cake your own. Have fun experimenting!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional information for a slice of this delightful strawberry crunch poke cake. Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 200mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Enjoy this treat without worrying too much about the numbers—it’s all about the delicious flavors!

FAQ Section

Got questions about the strawberry crunch poke cake? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get:

Can I use sugar-free Jell-O?
Absolutely! Sugar-free Jell-O works just as well and will still give you that vibrant strawberry flavor without the extra sugar. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for dissolving.

How long does the cake last in the fridge?
This cake is best enjoyed within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I often make it a day in advance, and it’s perfect for gatherings. The flavors develop beautifully as it sits in the fridge.

Can I freeze the strawberry crunch poke cake?
While I recommend enjoying it fresh, you can freeze it without the toppings. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it should be good for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving!

What can I substitute for the whipped topping?
If you’re looking for a homemade touch, feel free to whip up some heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla. It adds a lovely richness to the cake!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your strawberry crunch poke cake fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its flavor and texture for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge.

If you need to reheat it, I recommend doing so in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and warm it for about 10-15 seconds. You want it just slightly warm—not hot—so the Jell-O stays intact and the texture remains delightful. Enjoy it fresh, and trust me, you won’t have any trouble finishing off those leftovers!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your strawberry crunch poke cake experience, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creaminess perfectly complements the fruity flavors! You could also serve it alongside a refreshing fruit salad for a light and vibrant contrast. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel over the top just before serving. These additions will enhance the overall dining experience and make your dessert table truly unforgettable!

Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake: 7 Layers of Pure Bliss

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious strawberry crunch poke cake with layers of flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
In a separate bowl, dissolve strawberry Jell-O in boiling water.
Add cold water to the Jell-O mixture.
Once the cake is baked, poke holes in it using a fork.
Pour the Jell-O mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours.
Top with whipped topping and crushed strawberries.
Sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top and drizzle with strawberry syrup.

Notes

Chill the cake for better flavor.
Use fresh strawberries for garnish.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: strawberry crunch poke cake, dessert, cake, strawberries

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