Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake
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When it comes to desserts that pack a sweet punch and speak to our nostalgia, few treats rival a Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake. This delightful dessert is an exciting twist on traditional strawberry cheesecake, blending a moist, fluffy cake with a creamy filling and fruity bursts of strawberry goodness. It’s perfect for family gatherings or casual weekend treats, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile—especially during warmer months when strawberries are at their sweetest. I still remember the first time I fell in love with this cake; it was a summer barbecue, and I couldn’t resist going back for seconds (and thirds!).
Reasons to try it
What makes this recipe so appealing? This Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake is not only easy to whip up but also budget-friendly, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or simply seeking a sweet treat for the week, this dish ticks all the boxes. Kids and adults alike adore the interplay of flavors and textures—from the creamy cheesecake layer to the tangy strawberry jello.
"I tried this Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake for a family gathering, and it was an absolute hit! Everyone kept going back for more. It’s now my go-to recipe for any event!" – A satisfied home baker
Preparing Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake
Ready for the fun part? This recipe involves some straightforward steps that culminate in a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. You’ll be creating a fluffy white cake, filling it with a vibrant strawberry jello mixture, and finishing it off with a luscious cheesecake layer and airy Cool Whip topping. Let’s break it down, so you know exactly what to expect.
What you’ll need
Gather these essential items before you start:
- 1 box White Cake Mix
- 1 cup boiling Water
- 1 pkg Strawberry Jello
- 1/2 cup cold Water
- 1/2 cup frozen sliced Strawberries in Sugar (thawed)
- 1 large box instant Cheesecake Pudding
- 2 cups milk
- 12 oz Cool Whip
Tip: You can swap the white cake mix for a yellow cake mix for a slightly richer flavor. Frozen strawberries work great for this recipe, but feel free to use fresh ones if you have them on hand.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare your white cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Grease the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch dish with shortening.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared dish. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the dish.
- Once cooled, poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork.
- In a small bowl, mix the boiling water with the Jello until it fully dissolves, then stir in the cold water.
- Pour the Jello mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills all the holes.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the Jello.
- In another bowl, whisk the milk and cheesecake pudding mix together until smooth.
- Fold in the sliced, thawed strawberries, then pour the mixture over the cake.
- Refrigerate again for 1 hour to allow the pudding to set.
- Top with Cool Whip, and garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least an additional hour before serving. ENJOY!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it’s finally time to serve your Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake, consider garnishing it with fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch. This dessert is delicious on its own, but serving it with a light fruit salad can complement its sweetness nicely.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with this crowd-pleaser), store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the more the jello may absorb into the cake, which can change its texture slightly.
Pro chef tips
- Make sure your cake is completely cool before you poke holes and add the jello mixture. This ensures that the liquid seeps in properly rather than causing the cake to break apart.
- For the ultimate flavor explosion, allow the cake to rest overnight in the fridge—this gives the flavors time to meld beautifully.
- To make slicing easier, run a hot knife under warm water and dry it before cutting.
Creative twists
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Want to switch things up? Consider trying different flavors of jello, like raspberry or peach, for a unique twist. You could also experiment with other berries, such as blueberries or blackberries, for an exciting seasonal variation.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time will be around 3 hours, including chilling time—but active preparation is much shorter, about 30 minutes.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually benefits from being made a day in advance, allowing all the flavors to blend.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! You can easily substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
With these tips and insights, you’re all set to dive into a delicious baking adventure. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake, it’s bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire!
