Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Generously grease a 9×13-inch light metal baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Set the prepared pan aside while you make the cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare the cake batter

Prepare the white cake mix according to the directions on the package.

Add the required eggs, oil, water, or other ingredients specified by the manufacturer.

Mix until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.

Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan and spread it into an even layer.

Step 3: Bake the cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven.

Bake according to the cake mix package instructions, usually around 22–25 minutes, depending on the brand and your oven.

The cake is ready when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Poke holes in the cake

Once the cake has cooled, use the tines of a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface.

Space the holes throughout the cake so the strawberry mixture can soak into every section.

Be careful not to push all the way through the bottom of the cake.

Step 5: Prepare the strawberry gelatin mixture

In a heatproof bowl or small pitcher, combine the first box of halal-certified strawberry gelatin with 1 cup of boiling water.

Whisk until the powder has completely dissolved.

Add 1 cup of cold water and whisk again until evenly combined.

If using a plant-based strawberry dessert mix, follow its specific preparation directions. Some plant-based setting agents require different liquid quantities or temperatures and may not work with the same two-cup dilution.

Step 6: Pour the strawberry mixture over the cake

Slowly pour the prepared strawberry mixture over the cake, distributing it evenly across the surface.

Pay special attention to the holes so the liquid can soak into the cake.

This step gives Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake its signature moist texture and beautiful strawberry flavor.

Step 7: Chill the cake

Cover the baking pan and place it in the refrigerator.

Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the strawberry mixture to set and the cake to become thoroughly cold.

Do not add the frosting while the cake is warm.

Step 8: Beat the cream cheese

Place the softened cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.

Beat for approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until smooth and fluffy.

Scrape the cream cheese into a separate medium bowl and set aside.

Step 9: Whip the cream

In the original stand mixer bowl, combine the cold heavy whipping cream, confectioners' sugar, and alcohol-free vanilla extract.

Switch to the whisk attachment.

Beat on high speed for approximately 5–7 minutes, or until stiff peaks form.

The whipped cream should hold its shape when the whisk is lifted.

Avoid overwhipping, which can make the mixture grainy.

Step 10: Combine the frosting

Gently fold the whipped cream into the softened cream cheese mixture.

Continue folding until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and evenly combined.

There should be no visible streaks of cream cheese.

Avoid stirring too vigorously, as this can deflate the whipped cream.

Step 11: Frost the chilled cake

Remove the chilled cake from the refrigerator.

Spread the prepared cream cheese frosting evenly over the entire surface.

Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, generous layer.

Set the cake aside while preparing the crunchy topping.

Step 12: Prepare the strawberry crunch topping

Place the coarsely crushed golden sandwich cookies in a medium mixing bowl.

Add the melted butter and the second box of dry halal-certified strawberry gelatin powder.

Stir until the cookie crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles a colorful, buttery crumble.

If using a plant-based strawberry dessert powder, make sure it is suitable for use in an uncooked topping. Use the amount recommended by its manufacturer, as sweetness and concentration can vary.

Step 13: Add the crunchy topping

Sprinkle the strawberry cookie mixture evenly over the cream cheese frosting.

Gently press the crumbs into the frosting to help them adhere.

Cover the entire surface for a beautiful, colorful finish.

Step 14: Garnish and serve

Arrange fresh strawberries over the cake if desired.

For the best texture, add the crunchy topping shortly before serving.

Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled.

Enjoy the combination of soft strawberry cake, fluffy cream cheese frosting, and buttery cookie crunch.