Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
A deliciously fun dessert that combines the moistness of cake with a creamy strawberry infusion and a crunchy topping, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box strawberry cake mix Plus ingredients required on the box: water, oil, and eggs.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup strawberry syrup
- 1 tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip) Approximately 8 oz.
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup strawberry jello Or strawberry gelatin.
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.
- In a mixing bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, typically combining the cake mix with eggs, water, and oil.
- Pour the smooth batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for the time recommended on the box, usually around 30-35 minutes.
- After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. While it’s still warm, poke holes in the cake using the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer, making them about 1 inch apart.
Assembly
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and strawberry syrup. Slowly pour this mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- While the cake is chilling, make the crunchy topping by combining the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, sugar, and strawberry jello until it resembles a crumbly texture.
- After chilling, take the cake out and spread the whipped topping evenly over the top. Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture generously on top, pressing gently.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped strawberries before serving.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy this moist, sweet, and crunchy dessert!
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract during mixing. You can substitute different gelatin flavors or incorporate other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Drizzling extra strawberry syrup over servings can enhance sweetness.