Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake (Print Version)

Strawberry cake filled with cheesecake pudding, covered in whipped topping, and fresh strawberries.

# Ingredients:

→ Cake Base

01 - 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix
02 - 1 cup water
03 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
04 - 3 large eggs, at room temperature

→ Cheesecake Filling

05 - 2 packages (3.5 ounces each) cheesecake instant pudding mix
06 - 3 1/2 cups cold whole milk

→ Topping

07 - 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
08 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed, dried, capped, hulled, and chopped

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine strawberry cake mix, water, and vegetable oil. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until batter is fully blended.
02 - Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
03 - Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes across the surface of the cake, spacing them about 1 to 1 1/2 inches apart. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
04 - In a medium bowl, whisk together cheesecake instant pudding mixes and cold whole milk until the mixture begins to thicken.
05 - Transfer pudding to a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each hole with pudding. Spread any remaining pudding evenly over the top of the cake.
06 - Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set.
07 - Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled pudding layer. Sprinkle chopped strawberries over the surface. Slice and serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding the pudding to prevent it from becoming runny.
02 - For best flavor, use ripe strawberries and keep the dessert chilled until serving.