Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake

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Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake is the kind of dessert that doesn’t just show up at the party—it steals the spotlight. With its luscious layers of moist vanilla cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and juicy strawberries, it tastes like everything you love about summer, wrapped in a single slice. Every bite offers a contrast between light, fluffy cake and rich, velvety cream cheese filling with just the right pop of berry brightness.

This cake is perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or when you need a treat that delivers a “wow” factor with very little fuss. The best part? You don’t need to be a pro baker to pull it off. Using simple ingredients and a few smart shortcuts, you’ll have a beautiful, crowd-pleasing dessert that looks bakery-worthy but comes together right in your kitchen.

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What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

A classic vanilla or white cake mix works perfectly for this recipe. It provides a light, neutral base that allows the rich cheesecake and strawberries to shine. If you’re looking for a deeper flavor, a yellow cake mix can add a buttery backdrop to every bite.

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Ingredients for the Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake

• Vanilla or white cake mix – This is your base, creating a fluffy and sturdy structure ready to soak in the filling.
• Sweetened condensed milk – Poured into the poked holes, it adds incredible richness and moisture.
• Cream cheese – Blended into the filling, it creates the “cheesecake” flavor we crave.
• Whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade) – For a fluffy layer that lightens up the creamy elements.
• Fresh strawberries – Sliced on top, they add color, texture, and bright fruit flavor.
• Graham cracker crumbs – A sprinkling over the top gives a nod to classic cheesecake crust.

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How To Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare the vanilla or white cake mix according to the package instructions. Use a 9×13-inch baking dish for best results. Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly but not completely—you want it warm for the next step.

Step 2: Poke and Soak

Using the end of a wooden spoon or a thick skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake, about 1 inch apart. Then slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the top, letting it seep into the holes. This ensures every bite is deliciously moist.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gently fold in about half of the whipped topping to lighten it up. Spread this mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into some of the holes for that rich cheesecake surprise in every bite.

Step 4: Chill and Top

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better). Just before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping over the cake. Top with freshly sliced strawberries, arranging them generously. Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top for that classic cheesecake crunch.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Cut into squares and serve chilled. Each piece will have a dreamy blend of cake, creamy filling, and juicy berries—a guaranteed hit at any table.

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Serving and Storing Your Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake

This cake is best served cold straight from the fridge, making it the ultimate refreshing treat for hot days or summer gatherings. It slices beautifully after a few hours of chilling and pairs well with a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade.

For storing, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped topping and fresh strawberries may not hold up well once thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this cake?

You can make the cake up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight enhances the flavors and texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but thawed and drained frozen strawberries can work in a pinch. Avoid using ones packed in syrup.

What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?

You can substitute with crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even leave them off. The cake is still delicious without the crunch.

Can I make this with a homemade cake base?

Absolutely! If you prefer baking from scratch, use your favorite vanilla or white cake recipe as the base.

How do I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Make sure the cake is just warm, not hot, when pouring the condensed milk. Also, don’t overload with filling—a slow, even pour is best.

Is this recipe suitable for a layered cake version?

Yes! You can bake two round cakes, poke and fill them individually, then stack with layers of cream and strawberries in between.

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Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake, you’ll want to try these other indulgent creations:

• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies for a handheld take on cheesecake flavor.
• Cherry Cheesecake Puppy Chow with crunchy sweet bites and creamy cherry coating.
• Cherry Layer Cake with Cherry Cream Cheese Frosting that delivers fruity richness in every forkful.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups if you love mini treats with zesty notes.
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swirl in strawberry jam? Did you layer on extra whipped cream?

I love seeing your creative spins. Got questions? Share them too—we’re in this baking journey together!

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