How to make an Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake Recipe
Make a simple strawberry cheesecake poke cake recipe. This delicious dessert comes together easily, but tastes amazing. Perfect for making ahead.
If you’re looking for an easy dessert that’s perfect for every occasion, this strawberry cheesecake poke cake recipe is a must-try! Packed with layers of moist strawberry cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a treat that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, holiday, or birthday celebration, this dessert is a showstopper. Let’s dive into why this cake will quickly become your go-to recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Yet Elegant
This poke cake strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Using a boxed cake mix as the base cuts down prep time while still delivering amazing flavor. The creamy cheesecake pudding filling seeps into the cake, creating a decadent texture in every bite. Topped with cool whip and fresh strawberries, it looks like a bakery masterpiece without all the fuss. - Make with or Without Eggs
For those who need an egg-free dessert, this recipe is a lifesaver. The clever substitution of yogurt and flour ensures the cake remains soft and moist. Or if you prefer just swap out the yogurt and flour for the amount of eggs listed on the cake mix. Even better, it’s incredibly versatile—whether you’re changing up the pudding flavor or adding different toppings, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste and occasion.
What Is Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake?
Strawberry cheesecake poke cake is a layered dessert made by baking a moist strawberry cake, poking holes into it with the handle of a wooden spoon, and filling those holes with a creamy cheesecake pudding mixture. The cake is then topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a light, fruity finish. The “poke cake” technique ensures every bite is infused with flavor, making it a fun and tasty treat that stands out on any dessert table.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this irresistible poke cake:
- Strawberry Cake Base
- 1 (15.25 oz) box of strawberry cake mix
- ¼ cup vanilla yogurt (egg replacement)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (egg replacement)
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
If you prefer you can not use the egg replacement, and use the amount of eggs listed on the cake mix box. Usually 3 eggs.
- Cheesecake Filling
- 1 (3.4 oz) box of Jell-O instant cheesecake pudding mix
- 2 cups cold whole milk
- Topping
- 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
- Fresh strawberries (washed, dried, and diced)
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake
Prepare the Cake Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish or pan with cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, yogurt, flour, water, and oil. Mix using a handheld electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed. Or if making with eggs omit the yogurt and flour and replace with 3 eggs.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 25-28 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Allow the cake to cool for 5-10 minutes.
Poke and Cool
Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes 1-1½ inches apart across the entire cake. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature before proceeding.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cold milk and cheesecake pudding mix for 2 minutes. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to set.
Fill the Cake
Transfer the creamy pudding mixture to a piping bag. Fill each hole in the cooled cake with the pudding, ensuring every bite will be infused with flavor. Spread the leftover pudding over the top of the cake using an offset spatula. If you don’t have a piping bag you can use a ziplock bag and clip off a corner.
Add Whipped Topping and Chill
Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Top with Strawberries
Just before serving, add diced strawberries on top for a fresh strawberry flavor and a vibrant finish to the delicious poke cake.
Where to Take or Use This Recipe
This strawberry cheesecake poke cake is perfect for a variety of special occasions like:
- Birthday Parties: A hit for kids and adults alike!
- Potlucks and Gatherings: Easy to transport and serve in a 13×9-inch pan.
- Holidays: A festive option for Easter, Mother’s Day, or Valentine’s Day.
- Weekend Treats: A fun dessert to brighten up family dinners.
Variations to Try
Here is a great way to change up this delicious recipe!
- Flavor Twists
- Swap strawberry cake mix for vanilla/white cake mix or lemon for a unique spin.
- Use chocolate pudding for a rich, strawberry-chocolate combo.
- Topping Ideas
- Add crushed graham cracker crumbs for a cheesecake-inspired crust made of graham crackers.
- Drizzle with strawberry sauce or chocolate syrup for added indulgence.
- Mix-Ins
- Stir diced strawberries into the batter for extra fruitiness.
- Sprinkle white chocolate chips on top for a touch of sweetness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Cover the cake tightly or in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the delicious cake and pudding filling a day in advance. Wait to add the whipped topping and strawberries until just before serving for the freshest presentation.
Common Questions About Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake Recipe
1. Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, fresh whipped cream is a great substitute! Whip 1½ cups of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then spread it over the cake.
2. What other fruits can I use for topping?
Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas make excellent alternatives or additions to the diced strawberries.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cake mix and flour with gluten-free alternatives to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. Can I freeze this strawberry poke cake recipe cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen without the whipped topping and strawberries. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding the toppings.
Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake
Ingredients
- 1 15.25 oz box strawberry cake mix
- ¼ C vanilla yogurt
- ¼ C all-purpose flour
- 1 C water
- ½ C vegetable oil
- 1 3.4 oz Jell-O cheesecake instant pudding
- 2 C whole milk cold
- 8 oz Cool Whip thawed
- Strawberries washed and dried – diced
- Egg replacement: ¼ C yogurt and ¼ C flour or if using eggs, 3 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a 13×9 in a baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl add cake mix, water, oil, yogurt, and flour. Using a handheld mixer beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping the sides as needed.
- Pour batter into the prepared baking pan. Place in oven for 25-28 minutes.
- Checking cake after 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If the toothpick does not come out clean add 2-3 additional minutes to the cooking time.
- Allow the cake to cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Using the end of a round spoon poke holes 1-1 ½ inches apart. Let the cake cool completely.
- In a medium size bowl add cold milk and Jell-O cheesecake together and whisk for 2 minutes. Place in refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the pudding mixture to set up.
- Once the cake is cool add the pudding to a piping bag. Insert the open tip into the holes that were poked into the cake and fill with the cheesecake pudding filling.
- Use an offset spatula to spread the remaining pudding over the cake.
- Top with the thawed cool whip and spread over the whole cake using an offset spatula.
- Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- When it is time to serve add diced strawberries onto the top of the cake.
Notes
Eggs can be used according to box directions, usually 3 eggs. Omit the ¼ C yogurt and ¼ C flour.
Conclusion
This strawberry cheesecake poke cake recipe is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Its vibrant layers, creamy filling, perfect mix of moist cake and fresh strawberries are sure to delight everyone who takes a bite at your next gathering or special occasion. With easy instructions and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.
Ready to wow your friends and family? Try this crowd pleaser easy cake recipe today and share your results! Don’t forget to pin this post for later and let us know your favorite variations in the comments below. Happy baking!
More delightful desserts to try:
- Black Forest Jar Cakes
- Red Velvet Fudge
- Chocolate Heart Cupcakes
- Strawberry Crinkle Cookies
- Red Velvet Jar Cakes
- Valentine Saltine Toffee Bark
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Hi there!
I’m Emily, a mom and wife with a passion for crafting, celebrating holidays, and creating memorable moments. From Idaho to the world, The Benson Street is a treasure trove of easy, fun DIY projects, delightful printables, and delicious recipes. With over a decade of experience in blogging and a love for all things seasonal, I’m here to share my tips, ideas, and occasional mishaps. Join me in adding a dash of joy and creativity to every day! Read more…
