Easy Oreo Poke Cake

This delicious Oreo Poke Cake transforms a simple chocolate cake into an irresistible dessert that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of rich chocolate cake, Oreo pudding, and light whipped topping creates a heavenly texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. After making this for countless family gatherings, I can confidently say it's one of the easiest yet most impressive desserts in my recipe collection.

I first brought this cake to my son's baseball team celebration, and it disappeared faster than any other dessert on the table. Now it's requested at every family gathering and potluck we attend.

Ingredients

• Box of chocolate cake mix: Provides the perfect base for our poke cake with minimal effort
• Eggs, oil, and water: Needed according to cake mix package for proper cake texture
• Milk: Creates the creamy pudding mixture that infuses the cake with moisture and flavor
• Instant Oreo pudding packages: Add that distinctive cookies and cream flavor throughout
• Whipped topping: Creates a light, fluffy layer that balances the richness of the cake
• Crushed Oreo cookies: Add the perfect decorative finish and extra texture contrast

How To Make Oreo Poke Cake

Prepare the cake:

Mix the chocolate cake according to package directions, being careful not to overmix which can make the cake tough. Pour into a greased 9x13 baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, typically around 25 to 30 minutes.

Create the holes:

After allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes while still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the entire cake at roughly 1 inch intervals. The holes should go almost to the bottom of the cake to allow pudding to penetrate deeply.

Mix and pour the pudding:

Whisk the Oreo pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken but is still pourable. Work quickly as the pudding will continue to set. Pour immediately over the warm cake, directing the pudding into the holes. Use the back of a spoon to gently press pudding into holes.

Chill thoroughly:

Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour, though two hours is better. This allows the pudding to fully set and infuse the cake with flavor and moisture. Patience here is rewarded with better texture.

Add finishing touches:

Once completely chilled, spread the thawed whipped topping in an even layer across the entire cake. Sprinkle generously with crushed Oreo cookies just before serving for the freshest texture and appearance.

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My favorite part of making this cake is watching people's faces light up when they take their first bite. The contrast between the chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and light whipped topping creates such a wonderful texture experience. My grandmother, who claims not to like "fancy desserts," always asks for seconds.

Storage Instructions

This Oreo Poke Cake must be refrigerated due to the dairy ingredients. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. The cake actually improves after the first day as the flavors meld together and the texture becomes even more luscious. I often make it the day before serving for the best results.

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Variation Ideas

While the classic Oreo version is hard to beat, this poke cake concept works beautifully with other flavor combinations. Try using vanilla cake with strawberry pudding for a fruity twist, or white cake with pistachio pudding for an elegant variation. You can also substitute the Oreo cookies on top with other cookies or candies that complement your chosen pudding flavor. The possibilities are endless once you master the basic technique.

Serving Suggestions

This Oreo Poke Cake is delicious on its own, but adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. For special occasions, drizzle individual slices with chocolate sauce or add a few fresh berries for a pop of color. I like to serve it slightly chilled but not cold from the refrigerator to allow the flavors to fully develop.

This cake brings back so many fond memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Its simplicity and crowd pleasing flavor make it perfect for any occasion, from casual backyard barbecues to more formal celebrations. The combination of moist cake, creamy pudding and light topping creates a dessert that's greater than the sum of its parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, you can try vanilla or red velvet cake mix for a delicious twist. However, chocolate pairs best with Oreo pudding.

→ How do I prevent the pudding from clumping?

Whisk the pudding thoroughly with cold milk as directed. The Oreo pieces may create small lumps, but this adds texture to the dessert.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare the cake a day ahead to allow the pudding to set fully. Add the whipped topping and cookie crumble just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ What can I use instead of whipped topping?

You can substitute whipped cream or even cream cheese frosting for a richer texture and flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will intensify as it sits.