Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is one of those desserts that brings back childhood memories with every bite. It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures—soft, moist cake infused with a sweet, creamy strawberry filling, topped with a light whipped layer and a satisfyingly crunchy strawberry cookie crumble. If you love the classic Good Humor strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, this cake will be right up your alley.

What makes this dessert stand out is the poke cake method. After baking a simple white or vanilla cake, you poke holes all over and pour in a luscious strawberry-milk mixture, similar to a tres leches cake. The result is a wonderfully moist, melt-in-your-mouth cake bursting with strawberry flavor. Then, a thick layer of Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream) is spread over the top, followed by a golden, buttery Oreo-strawberry crumble that adds the perfect crunch.

This cake is ideal for any occasion—birthdays, potlucks, holiday celebrations, or just because you’re craving something sweet. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers but impressive enough to make a statement on any dessert table. You can make it in advance, and it tastes even better the next day when all the flavors have settled together. Whether you’re a fan of strawberries, love nostalgic treats, or simply enjoy a fuss-free yet stunning dessert, this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is more than just delicious—it’s the perfect combination of creamy, moist, and crunchy textures, all packed into a single slice. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:

Easy to make – Using a boxed cake mix means minimal prep time, and the poke method ensures the cake is super moist without any complicated steps.
Incredibly flavorful – The strawberry-infused milk mixture seeps into every bite, making the cake rich and full of fruity goodness.
A beautiful dessert – The vibrant pink strawberry gelatin gives the cake a lovely color, and the golden Oreo topping adds a visually appealing crunch.
Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, summer BBQ, or holiday gathering, this cake is a guaranteed hit.
Make-ahead friendly – You can prepare it a day in advance, and it tastes even better as the flavors meld together overnight.
Customizable – Want a different flavor? Switch up the cake base, use a different gelatin flavor, or add a chocolate twist for something unique.

No matter how you serve it, this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Health Benefits

While this is definitely a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation, there are some surprising benefits to the key ingredients in this cake:

Strawberries are packed with vitamin C – Fresh strawberries used for garnish provide antioxidants that support a healthy immune system.
Milk provides calcium and protein – The evaporated milk and whole milk in the filling add a boost of nutrients that contribute to strong bones and muscles.
Homemade whipped cream option – If you opt for homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip, you can reduce added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Portion control-friendly – Because this cake is rich and flavorful, even a small slice is satisfying, helping you indulge without overdoing it.

Of course, this cake is primarily a treat, but it’s always nice to know that some of its ingredients bring a little nutritional value to the table!

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total time: Approximately 3 hours (including chilling time)
Active prep time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12-16 slices
Calories per serving: Around 350-400 kcal, depending on toppings and modifications
Main nutrients per slice:
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 15g

The chilling time allows the cake to fully absorb the strawberry milk mixture, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and moisture.

Ingredients List

For the Cake:

1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients required on the package: eggs, oil, and water)
14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
12 oz. can evaporated milk
½ cup whole milk
3 oz. package strawberry gelatin (Jell-O), divided

For the Topping:

25 Golden Oreos (about one package)
¼ cup salted butter, melted
8 oz. Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)
Fresh strawberries for garnish (halved or whole)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (or follow the instructions on your cake mix box).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and prepare the white cake batter according to the package instructions.
Pour the batter into the dish and bake as directed, usually about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Milk Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the evaporated milk but do not let it boil.
Stir in half of the strawberry gelatin powder (1.5 oz.), whisking until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and whole milk until everything is well combined.

3. Poke & Soak the Cake

Using a skewer, chopstick, or fork, poke holes evenly all over the cooled cake, spacing them about ½ to 1 inch apart.
Slowly pour the strawberry milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the mixture to fully soak in.

4. Make the Crunch Topping

Place Golden Oreos in a ziplock bag and crush them using a rolling pin until they reach a coarse crumble texture.
Transfer the crushed cookies to a bowl and mix in the remaining 1.5 oz. of strawberry gelatin powder and the melted butter. Stir until well combined.

5. Assemble the Cake

Spread a thick layer of Cool Whip over the top of the chilled cake.
Evenly sprinkle the cookie crumble topping over the whipped layer.
Slice the cake into squares and garnish each piece with a fresh strawberry before serving.

How to Serve

This cake is best served chilled, making it a refreshing treat, especially on warm days. Here are some great serving ideas:

As-is: Enjoy it straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
With ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream adds an extra creamy element.
Drizzled with strawberry sauce: Enhance the fruity flavor with a little extra sweetness.
Paired with coffee or tea: The light whipped topping balances beautifully with a warm drink.

Pairing Suggestions

Beverages: Milk, iced tea, or fruit smoothies complement this cake well.
Savory dishes: Serve after a light meal like grilled chicken, a fresh salad, or seafood.
Chocolate desserts: If serving a dessert spread, this pairs nicely with chocolate mousse or brownies.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as gelatin changes texture when thawed.
Make-Ahead Tip: Bake and soak the cake a day ahead, but add the crumble topping before serving to maintain its crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the texture, taste, or presentation. Here’s what you should watch out for:

Not Poking Enough Holes in the Cake
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not poking enough holes or making them too shallow. The strawberry milk mixture needs to fully soak into the cake, so use a skewer or chopstick to poke deep, evenly spaced holes all over. If the holes are too small, the liquid won’t penetrate well, leaving dry spots in the cake.

Pouring the Filling Too Quickly
The strawberry milk mixture should be poured slowly and evenly to ensure it soaks into the cake rather than pooling on top. If you dump it all at once, it may not distribute properly, leaving some parts overly soaked and others too dry. A good trick is to use a measuring cup to pour in batches, allowing each section to absorb before adding more.

Not Letting the Cake Chill Long Enough
It’s tempting to dig in right away, but this cake needs at least one hour in the fridge for the milk mixture to set properly. If you rush this step, the cake may be too soft, and the flavors won’t have time to meld together. For the best results, let it chill for at least 3 hours or even overnight.

Over-Crushing the Golden Oreos
The crumble topping should be crumbly, not powdery. If you crush the cookies too finely, they won’t provide the signature crunch that makes this cake so special. Use a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor just a few times, leaving some small chunks for added texture.

Pro Tips

Use a White Cake Mix for the Best Color Contrast
A white cake base makes the pink strawberry filling stand out beautifully. If you use a yellow cake mix, the cake will still taste great, but it won’t have the same striking contrast. If you want to make it from scratch, a homemade vanilla cake works just as well.

Make the Holes Bigger for Better Absorption
If the holes in your cake are too small, the strawberry milk mixture won’t fully absorb. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a thick skewer to make slightly larger holes for better soaking. This ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.

Let the Cake Rest Overnight for the Best Texture
While this cake can be served after chilling for just an hour, letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor and texture. The milk mixture fully absorbs into the cake, making it extra soft and delicious the next day. If you’re making this for an event, consider prepping it the night before.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade, you can use your favorite vanilla or white cake recipe. Just make sure it’s a soft, fluffy cake that can absorb the strawberry milk mixture well.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crunch topping?
Yes! If you can’t find Golden Oreos, you can use vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even graham crackers for a similar crunch. If you want a chocolate variation, regular Oreos work great too.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually tastes better the next day because the flavors meld together overnight. Just make sure to add the Oreo crunch topping right before serving to keep it crispy.

Can I freeze Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake?
Freezing is not recommended because the gelatin mixture and whipped topping may become watery when thawed. However, you can freeze the plain cake base before adding the filling and toppings.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re looking for a fun, nostalgic, and absolutely delicious dessert, this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake is a must-try. With its soft, moist cake, creamy strawberry filling, fluffy whipped topping, and crunchy Oreo crumble, every bite is a mix of sweet, creamy, and crispy textures. This cake is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for parties, birthdays, summer gatherings, or just a fun treat for your family.

The best part? You can make it in advance, and it tastes even better the next day. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, this cake is guaranteed to impress. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings out childhood memories of strawberry shortcake ice cream bars while being beautiful enough for any celebration.

Now it’s your turn to make this Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake! Try it out and let me know how it turns out. Did you add any creative twists? Did your family love it? I’d love to hear about your experience, so be sure to leave a comment below, share this recipe with friends, and tag me on social media if you make it! Your feedback and photos make my day, and I can’t wait to see your amazing creations.

Go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!