Irresistible Silky Cookies And Cream Poke Cake Recipe

The Fluffiest Cookies and Cream Poke Cake Recipe Ever

Sweet moments often start with an irresistible silky cookies and cream poke cake that melts right into your dessert dreams.

Soft vanilla layers whisper promises of creamy indulgence waiting just beneath the surface.

Chocolate cookie crumbles dance through each delectable slice, creating unexpected bursts of delightful texture.

Milky filling seeps into perfectly punctured cake spaces, ensuring maximum flavor in every single bite.

Sophisticated yet simple, this dessert brings comfort and excitement to any gathering around the table.

Smooth cream topping adds a luxurious finish that makes everyone want another forkful.

Let’s uncover the magic behind this crowd-pleasing treat that turns ordinary afternoons into memorable celebrations.

FAQs

  • Why do I need to poke holes in the cake?

Poking holes allows the sweetened condensed milk mixture to seep deep into the cake, creating a moist, rich, and flavorful dessert that’s more indulgent than a regular cake.

  • Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute the white cake mix with yellow or vanilla cake mix. The key is to use a light-colored mix that complements the cookies and cream flavor.

  • How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is done. The edges should also be slightly pulled away from the pan sides.

  • What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, though the texture might be slightly less rich.

Why Silky Cookies and Cream Poke Cake Steals Hearts

  • Craft a Crowd-Pleaser: This cookies and cream poke cake delivers massive wow factor with minimal kitchen skills required, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap out different cookie types or add extra toppings like chocolate drizzle or sprinkles to personalize the dessert and match any celebration or mood.
  • Zero Complicated Techniques: The simple poking method and straightforward ingredients mean anyone can create a stunning dessert without stress or complex baking knowledge.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature, making this cake adaptable for various preferences and occasions like potlucks, birthdays, or casual gatherings.

Key Ingredients for Silky Cookies and Cream Poke Cake

Cake Base:
  • White Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides a light and fluffy foundation for the dessert.
  • Water: Helps to blend the cake mix ingredients smoothly.
  • Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and helps create a tender cake texture.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.
Filling and Moisture:
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Creates a rich, sweet liquid that soaks into the cake.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds extra creaminess and helps distribute the filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a classic sweet note.
Topping and Garnish:
  • Cookies and Cream Cookies: Provide a crunchy texture and signature cookies and cream flavor.
  • Whipped Cream, Frosting: Optional topping that adds an extra layer of silky smoothness to the cake.

How to Make Silky Cookies and Cream Poke Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and give it a generous coating of grease to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine:
  • White cake mix
  • Water
  • Vegetable oil
  • Eggs

Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, velvety batter with no lumps lurking around.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden-brown color and do the toothpick test – it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 4: Create Magical Holes

Once the cake emerges from the oven, grab a fork handle or skewer. While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over its surface.

Think of it like creating a delicious roadmap for flavor to travel through.

Step 5: Prepare the Dreamy Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Heavy cream
  • Vanilla extract

Blend these ingredients until they form a silky smooth mixture that looks like pure happiness.

Step 6: Infuse with Flavor

Slowly pour the creamy mixture over the warm cake, making sure it seeps into every single hole. Let the cake absorb this liquid gold for at least 10 minutes – patience is key!

Step 7: Add the Cookie Crunch

Coarsely crush some cookies and sprinkle them generously over the top of the cake. This is where the magic of texture comes into play.

Step 8: Create the Final Touch

For an extra decadent finish, swirl a layer of whipped cream or frosting across the top. This is your chance to make the cake look as amazing as it tastes.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Cut the cake into square slices. You can serve it right away at room temperature or chill it for a firmer, more refreshing treat.

Either way, prepare for taste bud explosions!

Helpful Tips for Silky Cookies and Cream Poke Cake

  • Whisk cake mix ingredients gently to avoid overmixing, which can create tough, dense cake texture.
  • Create evenly spaced holes with a fork handle or skewer to ensure consistent milk absorption throughout the cake.
  • Pour condensed milk mixture slowly and wait 10 minutes to allow complete liquid penetration for maximum flavor and moisture.
  • Crush cookies coarsely for varied texture, providing delightful crumble and contrast against the soft cake base.
  • Serve at room temperature for a soft, tender cake or chill for a firmer, more compact dessert experience.

Fun Variations on Silky Cookies and Cream Poke Cake

  • Gluten-Free Cookies and Cream Cake: Swap white cake mix with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free sandwich cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Chocolate Lover's Poke Cake: Replace white cake mix with chocolate cake mix and use chocolate sandwich cookies for an intense chocolate experience.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Cake: Utilize a sugar-free cake mix, sugar-free condensed milk, and low-sugar cookies to create a diabetic-friendly dessert.
  • Vegan Cookies and Cream Delight: Employ plant-based cake mix, coconut condensed milk, and dairy-free sandwich cookies for a completely vegan treat.

Best Pairings for Silky Cookies and Cream Poke Cake

Select a sweet Moscato or Riesling to complement the cake’s rich, creamy texture. These light, fruity wines balance the dessert’s sweetness without overwhelming its delicate flavor.

Serve cold whole milk or chocolate milk alongside the cake. The classic dairy pairing enhances the cookies and cream profile, creating a nostalgic and satisfying taste experience.

Brew a smooth, medium-roast coffee or a creamy latte. The coffee’s mild bitterness cuts through the cake’s sweetness, providing a perfect counterpoint to the silky dessert.

Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side. The cold, creamy texture and pure vanilla notes will amplify the cake’s decadent qualities and provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Keep Silky Cookies and Cream Poke Cake Fresh

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and avoid overheating to maintain the cake's soft texture.
  • Let frozen or refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore its original creamy consistency.
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Irresistible Silky Cookies And Cream Poke Cake Recipe

Irresistible Silky Cookies And Cream Poke Cake Recipe


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4.8 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Silky cookies and cream poke cake brings dessert magic to kitchen counters with creamy layers of pure indulgence. Sweet chocolate cookie crumbles and smooth vanilla pudding create a delightful experience you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Cake Ingredients:

  • 1 box white cake mix
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix

Cookies and Cream Components:

  • 15 oreo cookies, crushed
  • 1 cup crushed oreo cookies
  • 1/2 cup oreo cookies, additional for topping

Creamy Filling and Topping:

  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 container (16 ounces) whipped topping
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Calibrate the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with a light grease coating.
  2. Blend the white cake mix with water, vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture reaches a uniform consistency without overmixing.
  3. Transfer the cake batter into the greased pan, spreading it evenly, and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick emerges clean when inserted into the center.
  4. Once the cake emerges from the oven, immediately create uniform holes across the entire surface using a fork handle or skewer while the cake remains warm.
  5. Whisk the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until the mixture becomes silky and well-integrated.
  6. Gently cascade the liquid mixture over the warm cake, ensuring complete penetration into the poked holes, and allow approximately 10 minutes for absorption.
  7. Distribute the coarsely crushed cookies evenly across the cake’s surface, creating a delightful textural contrast.
  8. Optional: Apply a delicate layer of whipped cream or frosting for an extra luxurious finish.
  9. Slice into square portions and serve at ambient temperature, with the option to chill for a firmer texture if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure cake mix is fresh and within expiration date for optimal texture and rise.
  • Use room temperature eggs and oil to create smoother, more evenly mixed batter.
  • Poke holes gently to avoid tearing cake surface, creating uniform channels for filling absorption.
  • Crush cookies just before topping to maintain crisp texture and prevent soggy crumbs.
  • Experiment with different cookie varieties like chocolate sandwich cookies or graham crackers for unique flavor profiles.
  • Dairy-free option: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk and use non-dairy whipped topping.
  • Gluten-free adaptation: Use gluten-free cake mix and certified gluten-free cookies for celiac-friendly version.
  • Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 455
  • Sugar: 35.2 g
  • Sodium: 430 mg
  • Fat: 26.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10.8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15.3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48.7 g
  • Fiber: 0.6 g
  • Protein: 5.2 g
  • Cholesterol: 78 mg
Mike Reynolds

Mike Reynolds

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Sustainable cooking techniques, Food photography

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech)
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Mike studied culinary arts with a strong focus on farm-to-table principles and sustainable cooking. His training emphasized the importance of fresh, local ingredients and environmentally responsible practices in the kitchen.


Mike’s food journey began deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where weekends at farmers’ markets and home-cooked meals sparked a lifelong obsession with simple, seasonal eating.
After earning his Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, he set out to bring farm-to-table cooking into everyday kitchens, without the fuss.
Mike’s philosophy is all about keeping it fresh, unfussy, and full of heart. When he’s not crafting new single-serving recipes, he’s hiking mountain trails, chatting with local farmers, or experimenting with wild ingredients in his backyard kitchen.

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