Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the classic combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries. This easy poke cake recipe takes a simple boxed strawberry cake mix and transforms it into a bakery style dessert that feels special enough for celebrations but simple enough for weeknight treats. With creamy white chocolate pudding, fluffy whipped topping, fresh strawberries, and a glossy chocolate drizzle, every bite is moist, flavorful, and indulgent. If you are looking for a crowd pleasing dessert that looks impressive with minimal effort, this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake is exactly what you need.
Why You Will Love This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake
This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake is loved for so many reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to make, even if you are not an experienced baker. Using a boxed cake mix saves time without sacrificing flavor. Second, the texture is unbeatable. The pudding soaks into the cake, making it ultra moist and tender. Third, the flavor combination is a proven favorite. Sweet strawberries, creamy white chocolate, and rich melted chocolate come together perfectly. Finally, it is ideal for parties and gatherings since it can be made ahead and served chilled, making entertaining stress free.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake. Be sure to have all ingredients ready before you begin.
1 box strawberry cake mix 15.25 oz plus ingredients listed on the box
4 cups milk
2 boxes instant white chocolate pudding mix 3.3 oz each
1 tub Cool Whip 8 oz
12 ounces fresh strawberries quartered
7 oz melted chocolate or melting chocolate of choice
Step by Step How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake
Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the strawberry cake mix box. Grease a 9×13 baking dish well to prevent sticking.
Prepare the strawberry cake batter following the package directions. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed.
Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. The cake should still be warm but not hot.
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Space the holes evenly so the pudding can soak into every bite.
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant white chocolate pudding mix and 4 cups of cold milk. Mix according to the package directions but do not let it fully thicken.
Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the cake, making sure it flows into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if needed. Let the cake sit on the counter for about 5 minutes so the pudding can set slightly.
Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer, covering the entire cake.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl using 15 to 30 second intervals, stirring well between each interval until smooth.
Top the cake with quartered strawberries, distributing them evenly. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the strawberries and whipped topping.
Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours before serving to allow everything to set properly. Slice and enjoy.
Helpful Tips
For best results, do not overbake the cake. A moist cake absorbs the pudding better. When poking holes, make sure they go deep but do not tear the cake. Use cold milk for the pudding to help it set correctly. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before drizzling so it does not melt the whipped topping. Chilling the cake overnight enhances the flavor and texture even more.
Substitutions And Variations
You can easily customize this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake. Vanilla pudding or chocolate pudding can replace white chocolate pudding if desired. Chocolate cake mix can be used instead of strawberry for a chocolate strawberry twist. Swap Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream if preferred. Try adding sliced bananas or raspberries along with the strawberries. For extra richness, sprinkle chocolate chips or shaved chocolate on top.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake covered tightly in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. This cake should not be left at room temperature for extended periods due to the dairy based layers. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands used. On average, one serving includes calories from cake, pudding, whipped topping, chocolate, and strawberries. This dessert contains dairy and wheat and should be enjoyed in moderation as a sweet treat. For lighter servings, cut smaller slices and add extra fresh fruit on the side.
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380
Sugar: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Protein: 5 g
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake chilled for the best texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk. For special occasions, garnish each slice with an extra strawberry or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This cake is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake
Many people ask if this cake can be made ahead of time. Yes, this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake is perfect for making a day in advance, which actually improves the flavor as it chills. Another common question is whether frozen strawberries can be used. Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture, but thawed frozen strawberries can work if well drained. People also wonder if homemade pudding can be substituted. Instant pudding works best because it sets quickly and evenly. Some ask about different chocolate options, and the answer is yes, almond bark, chocolate chips, or dipping chocolate all work well. Lastly, many want to know if this cake travels well. As long as it stays chilled, it is great for parties and events.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for spending time in the kitchen with me and trying this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake. This dessert is one of my person
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Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Poke Cake is an easy sheet cake made with strawberry cake, creamy white chocolate pudding, fresh strawberries, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for parties, holidays, or make ahead desserts.
Ingredients
1 box strawberry cake mix 15.25 oz plus ingredients listed on the box
4 cups milk
2 boxes instant white chocolate pudding mix 3.3 oz each
1 tub Cool Whip 8 oz
12 ounces fresh strawberries quartered
7 oz melting chocolate or dipping chocolate
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the strawberry cake mix box. Grease a 9×13 baking dish well to prevent sticking.
Prepare the strawberry cake batter following the package directions. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed.
Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. The cake should still be warm but not hot.
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Space the holes evenly so the pudding can soak into every bite.
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant white chocolate pudding mix and 4 cups of cold milk. Mix according to the package directions but do not let it fully thicken.
Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the cake, making sure it flows into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if needed. Let the cake sit on the counter for about 5 minutes so the pudding can set slightly.
Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer, covering the entire cake.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl using 15 to 30 second intervals, stirring well between each interval until smooth.
Top the cake with quartered strawberries, distributing them evenly. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the strawberries and whipped topping.
Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours before serving to allow everything to set properly. Slice and enjoy.
Notes
Any brand of strawberry cake mix works well.
Vanilla or chocolate pudding can be substituted for white chocolate pudding.
Use fresh strawberries for best texture and flavor.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes + Time 2 hours chilling
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 5g
al favorites because it is so easy to make yet delivers incredible flavor and a beautiful presentation. I love how the pudding keeps the cake moist and how the fresh strawberries and chocolate make every bite feel special. I hope this recipe brings smiles to your table and becomes a go-to treat for your family and friends. Wishing you happy baking, delicious results, and thank you for being part of this food loving community.