Strawberry Fudge Poke Cake combines rich chocolate cake, creamy fudge frosting, and a fruity strawberry topping in one indulgent treat. Perfect for summer gatherings, this easy-to-make dessert will leave a lasting impression on everyone who tries it. The technique of poking holes in the cake allows the filling to seep deep inside, creating a moist and flavorful bite every time.
What Exactly Is a Poke Cake?
A poke cake is a baked cake with holes poked across its surface, allowing flavorful liquids or fillings to be absorbed. This makes the cake incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. Whether you use Jell-O, pudding, or sweetened condensed milk, poke cakes offer endless flavor possibilities.
For more unique and fun dessert ideas, you might want to explore this delicious Pumpkin Banana Loaf Recipe from DannyRecipes. It’s a great fall-inspired treat that could complement your summer poke cake offerings!
Why Strawberry Fudge Poke Cake is a Must-Try
The combination of chocolate fudge and strawberries is truly irresistible. Here’s why this cake will become your go-to for any occasion:
- Flavorful Contrast: Rich chocolate paired with tangy strawberry pie filling creates a mouth-watering balance.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the poke cake method, the filling infuses every bite, making it incredibly moist.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cake is quick to assemble.
To make your cooking more diverse, try pairing this cake with a savory dish like these easy-to-make Keto Mexican Chimichangas, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the dessert with a flavorful main course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box of dark chocolate cake mix
- 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
- 16 oz. chocolate fudge frosting
- 21 oz. strawberry pie filling
- 8 oz. Cool Whip, thawed
Step-by-Step Recipe for Strawberry Fudge Poke Cake
- Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Follow the box instructions to bake the chocolate cake. Once done, poke holes across the cake using a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon. - Add the Filling
Slowly pour sweetened condensed milk over the top, ensuring it fills all the holes. Let the cake cool on a wire rack. - Layer with Fudge
Microwave the fudge frosting for 30 seconds, stir, and spread evenly over the cooled cake. Refrigerate until chilled. - Top with Strawberry Mixture
In a bowl, break up the strawberry pie filling and fold in the thawed Cool Whip. Spread this over the cake as the final layer. - Serve
Garnish with fresh strawberries, and enjoy!
For an even healthier twist, try experimenting with lower-calorie versions of this cake by swapping in keto-friendly ingredients, just like these Keto Cheddar Biscuits that are both tasty and low-carb!
Variations and Additions
- Fruits: Switch the strawberry pie filling for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
- Toppings: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or drizzle with chocolate syrup for extra indulgence.
- Frosting: For a homemade touch, make your own whipped cream to replace the Cool Whip.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this cake provides approximately:
- Calories: 237
- Total Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 3g
Though indulgent, you can make adjustments by using sugar-free or lower-fat versions of the ingredients.
FAQs About Strawberry Fudge Poke Cake
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, chilling it overnight allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier.
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries?
Absolutely! You can substitute the strawberry pie filling with freshly mashed strawberries for a fresher taste. This will add a vibrant, natural flavor to the cake.
How Long Will This Cake Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, Strawberry Fudge Poke Cake will last 3-5 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze this cake for up to two months. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap before freezing.
Pairing and Serving Ideas
This cake pairs well with light and refreshing salads like this Cucumber Salad Recipe, making for a balanced meal during a hot summer day. You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream for an added touch of indulgence.