Chocolate cake enthusiasts, rejoice! This Oreo Poke Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate cake and creamy Oreo pudding. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet craving, this poke cake is not only easy to make but also visually stunning. The combination of Cool Whip and crushed Oreos on top adds a textural contrast that will impress your guests and satisfy your dessert cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time.
- Decadent Flavor: The layers of chocolate cake and Oreo pudding create an irresistible flavor combination.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert serves up to 20 people, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings for a personalized touch!
- Make-Ahead Option: This cake can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create this amazing Oreo Poke Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- A greased 9×13 pan
- Wooden spoon
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 pan: The perfect size for baking your cake evenly while creating those iconic poke holes.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for poking holes in the warm cake without damaging it.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for whisking together the pudding mixture effortlessly.
- Whisk: Ensures that your pudding is lump-free and perfectly blended.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake Topped with Oreo Pudding, Cool Whip and Crushed Oreos! Quick, Easy Poke Cake That Everyone Will Love!
For the Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (Plus ingredients to make cake)
For the Pudding
- 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 Chocolate Cake
- Make cake mix according to package directions.
- Pour into a greased 9×13 pan.
- Bake as instructed until done.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven.
- Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes over the entire surface of the cake at about 1-inch intervals.
Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Mixture
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 4 cups of milk and 2 packages of Instant Oreo pudding.
- Ensure there are no lumps by whisking thoroughly.
- Let the mixture sit for about 2 minutes until it’s somewhat thickened but not fully set.
Step 4: Combine Cake and Pudding
- Pour the pudding mixture over the warm cake evenly.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator.
- Chill for about an hour until set.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Once set, spread 8 ounces of Cool Whip over the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup crushed Oreo Cookies. If you plan on saving some for later, add Oreos only on portions being served to prevent sogginess.
Enjoy every bite of this indulgent Oreo Poke Cake!
How to Serve Oreo Poke Cake
Oreo Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
Individual Portions
- Serve the cake in small cups for a fun and easy-to-eat dessert option. This also makes it perfect for parties!
With Extra Toppings
- Add more crushed Oreos or chocolate syrup on top of each slice for an extra indulgent treat. This adds texture and flavor.
A La Mode
- Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy ice cream complements the rich chocolate cake beautifully.
Festive Garnish
- Use fresh mint leaves as a garnish for a pop of color and flavor. This is especially nice when serving for special occasions.
Family Style
- Place the entire cake on the table and let guests serve themselves. This creates a casual and inviting atmosphere.
Pair with Beverages
- Serve with milk, coffee, or even a sweet dessert wine. These drinks will enhance the flavors of the Oreo Poke Cake.
How to Perfect Oreo Poke Cake
Perfecting your Oreo Poke Cake ensures it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check expiration dates on your pudding mix and Cool Whip. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Poke Holes Evenly: When poking holes in the cake, ensure they’re spaced evenly to allow for maximum pudding absorption. This helps every bite be as delicious as possible.
- Control Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding pudding and Cool Whip. This prevents melting and helps maintain texture.
- Garnish Just Before Serving: Sprinkle crushed Oreos on top right before serving to keep them crunchy. Soggy toppings can detract from the overall experience.
- Chill Properly: Letting the cake set in the fridge for at least an hour helps all flavors meld together. Patience pays off with this dessert!

Best Side Dishes for Oreo Poke Cake
When serving Oreo Poke Cake, consider pairing it with side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: Creamy chocolate mousse offers an elegant touch that pairs well with the cake’s chocolate base.
- Whipped Cream: Simple yet effective, serve extra whipped cream on the side for those who enjoy an added layer of creaminess.
- Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making it an ideal pairing.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer savory notes that balance out dessert flavors perfectly.
- Nut Mix: A bowl of salted nuts adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft cake while providing savory elements.
- Mini Cupcakes: Offer guests miniature cupcakes as an additional sweet treat, creating a fun dessert table experience.
- Ice Cream Floats: Pair this cake with soda floats for a nostalgic twist that’s sure to delight guests young and old!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Oreo Poke Cake, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Not allowing the cake to cool properly can lead to a soupy pudding layer. Be sure to let the cake sit for at least 10 minutes before adding the pudding.
- Using Too Much Milk: Adding too much milk to the pudding can make it runny. Stick to the recipe’s instructions for the exact amount of milk needed.
- Poking Holes Too Deep: If you poke holes that are too deep, the pudding may seep through and make the cake soggy. Aim for about 1 inch deep with even spacing.
- Adding Oreos Too Early: Sprinkling crushed Oreos on top before serving can cause them to get soggy. Wait until you’re ready to serve before adding them.
- Not Covering While Refrigerating: Leaving the cake uncovered in the fridge can dry it out. Always cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
Freezing Oreo Poke Cake
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating Oreo Poke Cake
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Oreo Poke Cake?
Oreo Poke Cake is a chocolate cake that has holes poked in it, filled with creamy Oreo pudding and topped with Cool Whip and crushed Oreos. It’s an indulgent dessert loved by many!
How long does Oreo Poke Cake last in the fridge?
Oreo Poke Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.
Can I customize my Oreo Poke Cake?
Absolutely! You can add layers of other flavors like vanilla pudding or mix in different candies if you want. The options are endless!
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Yes, you can use homemade pudding! Just ensure it’s thick enough so that it doesn’t make the cake soggy when poured over.
Is this dessert suitable for parties?
Definitely! Oreo Poke Cake serves up to 20 people, making it perfect for gatherings or celebrations. Everyone loves its rich flavor!
Final Thoughts
Oreo Poke Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy layers and rich chocolate base make it a crowd-pleaser at any event. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins to create your own unique version. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Oreo Poke Cake
Oreo Poke Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers, combining the rich, moist texture of chocolate cake with a decadent layer of creamy Oreo pudding. This delightful dessert is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, making it perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth. Topped with fluffy Cool Whip and crunchy crushed Oreos, every bite offers a satisfying contrast in textures and flavors. With its crowd-pleasing appeal, this cake serves up to 20 people, ensuring there’s plenty to share (or keep all to yourself!). Make-ahead convenience allows you to enjoy stress-free gatherings while impressing your guests with this irresistible treat.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 20 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients as directed)
- 2 packages (4 oz each) Instant Oreo pudding
- 4 cups 2% milk
- 8 oz Cool Whip
- 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the cake mix according to package directions. Pour into a greased 9×13 pan and bake until done.
- Once baked, remove from oven and poke holes evenly over the surface using a wooden spoon.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together milk and Oreo pudding until smooth. Let it sit for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the warm cake and allow it to cool before refrigerating for about an hour.
- After chilling, spread Cool Whip on top 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 100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Ensure the cake cools completely before adding pudding to prevent melting. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor. Customize toppings by adding chocolate syrup or extra crushed Oreos for an indulgent twist.