Chocolate Cake topped with Oreo pudding, Cool Whip, and crushed Oreos makes for a delightful treat that everyone will love. The Oreo Poke Cake is not only quick and easy to make but also perfect for various occasions, from birthday parties to family gatherings. Its creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake Base
- For the Pudding Layer
- For Topping
- How to Make Oreo Poke Cake
- Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
- Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Mixture
- Step 4: Combine Pudding with Cake
- Step 5: Add Toppings
- How to Serve Oreo Poke Cake
- With Fresh Berries
- With Ice Cream
- With Whipped Cream
- As Individual Servings
- How to Perfect Oreo Poke Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Oreo Poke Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Oreo Poke Cake
- Reheating Oreo Poke Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an Oreo Poke Cake?
- Can I use other flavors of pudding?
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- How long does it take for the pudding to set?
- Can I customize my Oreo Poke Cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time, allowing you to whip it up in no time.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate cake and Oreo pudding creates a dessert that is rich and satisfying.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple weeknight treat.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its delicious layers, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike.
- No Special Skills Needed: Even novice bakers can create this beautiful dessert with ease.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Refrigerator
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 inch baking pan: Ideal for baking the cake evenly while providing enough surface area for poking holes.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for preparing the pudding mixture without spills.
- Whisk: Helps eliminate lumps in the pudding mix for a smooth texture.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for poking holes in the cake without causing damage.

Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (Plus ingredients to make cake)
For the Pudding Layer
- 2 packages of Instant Oreo pudding (4 ounces each)
- 4 cups 2% milk
For Topping
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
- 1 cup crushed Oreo Cookies
How to Make Oreo Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Make the chocolate cake mix according to the package directions.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake as directed until done.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven.
- Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes in about 1-inch intervals all over the cake.
Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 cups of milk and 2 packages of Instant Oreo pudding.
- Ensure all lumps are whisked out thoroughly.
- Let it sit for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly but does not set completely.
Step 4: Combine Pudding with Cake
- Pour the pudding mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it fills all holes.
- Allow it to cool at room temperature for a few minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- After about an hour in the fridge, once set, spread 8 ounces of Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup of crushed Oreo Cookies. Remember to only add Oreos on portions you plan to eat right away to avoid sogginess.
Enjoy your deliciously easy Oreo Poke Cake, perfect for any gathering or just as a sweet treat!
How to Serve Oreo Poke Cake
Oreo Poke Cake is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enhance the experience by pairing it with various accompaniments that complement its rich chocolate and creamy flavors.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a delightful tartness and color, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Raspberries: Their vibrant color and slight tang balance the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the rich cake.
- Cookies and Cream Ice Cream: This flavor enhances the Oreo theme and brings an extra crunch.
With Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream can elevate your dessert’s presentation and texture.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or mint extract for a unique twist on the classic topping.
As Individual Servings
- Mini Cups: Serve in small cups for easy handling at parties or gatherings, making it a fun treat.
- Jar Desserts: Layer the cake with pudding and Cool Whip in jars for a beautiful presentation that’s also portable.
How to Perfect Oreo Poke Cake
To ensure your Oreo Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for success.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and milk to come to room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smoother batter that bakes evenly.
- Poke Holes Carefully: Use the end of a wooden spoon gently to poke holes; this ensures the pudding mixture seeps in without breaking apart the cake.
- Chill Properly: Letting the cake set in the fridge for at least an hour allows flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing taste.
- Keep Oreos Separate: If you plan on saving some cake for later, sprinkle crushed Oreos just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like chocolate syrup or nuts for added flavor and texture variations.
Best Side Dishes for Oreo Poke Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Oreo Poke Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats echo the flavors of Oreo while adding a luxurious touch.
- Nutty Granola: For a crunchy texture, serve some nutty granola on the side; it complements the soft cake well.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance out the sweetness of dessert, providing a savory counterpoint.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light side that pairs nicely with cake.
- Chips and Salsa: For something different, salty chips with fresh salsa can create an interesting flavor contrast with sweet desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making an Oreo Poke Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring the cake cooling time – It’s crucial to let the cake cool before pouring the pudding over it. If you skip this step, the pudding may seep into the cake too quickly and create a soggy texture.
- Not whisking the pudding thoroughly – Skipping the whisking process can leave lumps in your pudding mixture. Be sure to whisk until smooth for an even consistency that will enhance your cake.
- Using warm Cool Whip – If you don’t allow your Cool Whip to thaw properly, it won’t spread smoothly over the cake. Always let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.
- Overloading on crushed Oreos – While Oreos add flavor, too many can make your cake overly rich. Add them sparingly on top or just on individual servings to keep it balanced.
- Not refrigerating long enough – The pudding needs time to set, so don’t rush this step. Allow at least one hour in the fridge for optimal results.
- Serving immediately without chilling – For best flavor and texture, always chill your Oreo Poke Cake before serving. This helps all layers meld beautifully together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Oreo Poke Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep any extra crushed Oreos separate until ready to serve to maintain crunchiness.
Freezing Oreo Poke Cake
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Frozen Oreo Poke Cake can be kept for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Oreo Poke Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop – Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Oreo Poke Cake.
What is an Oreo Poke Cake?
An Oreo Poke Cake is a moist chocolate cake that has holes poked in it and is filled with creamy Oreo pudding, topped with Cool Whip and crushed Oreos.
Can I use other flavors of pudding?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of pudding, like vanilla or chocolate fudge, for unique variations of the Oreo Poke Cake.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free Oreo Poke Cake, use gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure that your Oreos are labeled gluten-free.
How long does it take for the pudding to set?
The pudding needs at least one hour in the fridge after being poured over the cake to fully set before serving.
Can I customize my Oreo Poke Cake?
Absolutely! You can add layers of fruit or different toppings such as nuts or whipped cream according to your preferences.
Final Thoughts
This delicious Oreo Poke Cake is perfect for any occasion. Its creamy layers and rich chocolate flavor appeal to everyone. Plus, it’s easy to customize with various toppings or flavors. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
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Oreo Poke Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Oreo Poke Cake, a rich chocolate dessert layered with creamy Oreo pudding and topped with fluffy Cool Whip and crushed Oreos. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings. With its moist cake base and luscious toppings, it’s bound to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings. Plus, it’s a no-fuss recipe that requires minimal time and skills, making it ideal for novice bakers. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something sweet, this Oreo Poke Cake will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients to make the cake)
- 2 packages of Instant Oreo pudding (4 ounces each)
- 4 cups 2% milk
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
- 1 cup crushed Oreo Cookies
Instructions
- Preheat your oven as directed on the cake mix box.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to package instructions and pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake until done and then let it cool slightly.
- Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes in 1-inch intervals across the cake.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and Oreo pudding until smooth; let sit briefly until thickened.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it fills all holes. Let cool at room temperature before refrigerating for an hour.
- Top with Cool Whip and sprinkle with crushed Oreos just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 89g)
- Calories: 308
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 265mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 29mg