Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: strawberry cheesecake poke cake! This delightful cake is like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday bash, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! I love how easy it is to make, and the best part? It’s an impressive showstopper that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but really, it’s a breeze. The way the strawberry puree seeps into the cake is simply magical, creating a moist and luscious texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake topping. Seriously, you won’t want to miss out on this strawberry cheesecake poke cake! It’s a dessert that never fails to get rave reviews from family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 cup of water
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of strawberry puree (fresh or store-bought)
- 1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 cup of whipped topping
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, sliced
How to Prepare Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important, so don’t skip it!
- Next, grab that box of yellow cake mix and prepare it according to the package instructions. It’s usually just mixing the cake mix with water, oil, and eggs, but don’t forget to follow the directions!
- Once your batter is ready, pour it into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly, so it bakes beautifully.
- Now, pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. I always check with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark—when it comes out clean, you’re golden!
- After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time is crucial before we start poking.
- Once it’s cooled a bit, grab a fork and gently poke holes all over the cake—don’t be shy! This is where the magic happens, and the strawberry puree will soak in.
- In a separate bowl, mix your strawberry puree until it’s smooth, then pour it all over the cake. Watch it seep into those holes—it’s like a strawberry spa treatment for your cake!
- Now, let’s whip up that creamy topping! In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until it’s nice and smooth. You want it to be fluffy and delicious!
- Next, fold in the whipped topping gently. This is where you get that airy cheesecake feel; it should look light and dreamy.
- Spread this creamy mixture over the top of your cake, making sure to cover it all. It should look absolutely inviting!
- Finally, top your cake with those fresh strawberries. They not only add color but also a fresh burst of flavor!
- Now comes the hardest part—chill your masterpiece in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This helps everything set together, so don’t rush it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers!
- The flavor combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries is simply irresistible.
- This poke cake is a sure crowd-pleaser—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
- It can be made ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy your guests at gatherings.
- The vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.
- Every bite is moist and bursting with strawberry goodness, thanks to the soaking technique.
- It’s a versatile recipe—feel free to swap in different fruits or toppings to make it your own!
Tips for Success
- Make sure the cake is completely cooled before poking holes. If it’s still warm, the strawberry puree won’t soak in as well, and you’ll miss out on that delicious flavor!
- For the best strawberry flavor, use fresh strawberries when topping the cake. They add a burst of freshness that really elevates the dessert.
- Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the cake to rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours helps the layers meld together perfectly.
- If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. It gives it a lovely depth!
- For a fun twist, try mixing in some chopped strawberries into the cream cheese layer for added texture and flavor throughout.
- Worried about leftovers? Place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the cake before covering it with foil to keep it nice and fresh!
Variations
- Mixed Berry Delight: Swap out the strawberries for a mix of your favorite berries like blueberries and raspberries. The combination brings a lovely tartness to the cake!
- Tropical Twist: Use crushed pineapple or diced mango instead of strawberries. This will give your poke cake a refreshing tropical vibe that’s perfect for summer!
- Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the cake mix or drizzle chocolate syrup over the top before serving. You can even mix in chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat!
- Peachy Keen: Substitute fresh peach slices for the strawberries. The sweet, juicy flavor of peaches pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer!
- Flavored Whipped Topping: Instead of plain whipped topping, try using a flavored one, like vanilla or coconut. It adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the cake perfectly!
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, over the top for added texture and a delightful crunch.
- Seasonal Spices: In the cream cheese mixture, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that’s especially nice in the fall!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover strawberry cheesecake poke cake is super easy! Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. I recommend keeping it in the refrigerator, where it’ll last for about 3-4 days. Trust me, though, it probably won’t last that long—it’s just too delicious!
If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze individual slices! Just wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay good for about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. You can serve it chilled straight from the fridge, or if you prefer a bit of warmth, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it; we want to keep that creamy cheesecake layer intact!
Remember, this cake is best enjoyed cold, so don’t skip the chilling step after making it. It really helps to meld all those wonderful flavors together!
Nutritional Information
Just a heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients or brands you use, so this information is more of a guideline than a precise measurement. Typically, one slice of this scrumptious strawberry cheesecake poke cake contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 4g
So, while you indulge in this delightful cake, you can keep these numbers in mind. Just remember, it’s all about balance, and sometimes, a slice of happiness is worth it!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cake mix for this poke cake?
Absolutely! While I love the classic yellow cake mix, you can switch it up with chocolate, strawberry, or even a funfetti cake mix for a colorful twist. Just remember that the flavors will change, but it’ll still be delicious!
How long does the strawberry cheesecake poke cake need to chill?
I recommend chilling it for at least 2 hours. This helps all the flavors meld together and the creamy cheesecake layer to set perfectly. If you can wait longer, that’s even better!
Can I make this poke cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! It’s actually a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Just prepare it the day before your event, and let it chill in the fridge overnight. You’ll save time and wow your guests with this stunning dessert!
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a whipped cream cheese spread. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be a bit different, but it can still be delicious!
Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake: 10 Irresistible Delights
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious strawberry cheesecake poke cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 cup of water
- 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of strawberry puree
- 1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 cup of whipped topping
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the yellow 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.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the cake.
- Mix the strawberry puree and pour it over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in the whipped topping.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cake.
- Top with sliced strawberries.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor.
- Can substitute other fruits if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake poke cake, poke cake, cheesecake cake, strawberry dessert
