If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is fun to make, this Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s wonderfully light, bursting with bright strawberry flavor, and has that magic poke cake texture where juicy gelatin fills every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, this cake blends simplicity with impressive taste that never fails to please.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating that irresistible strawberry poke cake magic. Each one plays an essential role—whether it’s the fluffy base from the white cake mix, the vivid sweetness of strawberry gelatin, or the creamy finish from whipped topping—all combining perfectly to deliver this showstopper dessert.
- White cake mix: The foundation of the cake that ensures a tender, moist crumb every time.
- Eggs, water, and oil: These pantry staples are mixed with the cake mix to bring it all together smoothly and add moisture.
- Strawberry-flavored gelatin (3 oz): Gives the cake its signature fruity punch and beautiful pink color that seeps into the holes.
- Boiling water: Needed to dissolve the gelatin thoroughly, so it infuses the cake evenly.
- Cold water: Helps cool the gelatin mixture before it’s poured over the cake to avoid melting the frosting later.
- Whipped topping (8 oz): Adds a creamy, cloud-like layer on top that balances the strawberry’s sweetness.
- Fresh strawberries (optional): Sliced strawberries add a fresh, natural texture and an extra pop of color when used as a garnish.
How to Make Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven as directed on the white cake mix box. Mix the cake batter according to package instructions using the eggs, water, and oil, then pour this luscious batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—usually around 25 minutes. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely, as this is crucial for the next step where we “poke” the cake.
Step 2: Mix the Strawberry Gelatin
While your cake is cooling, whisk together the strawberry-flavored gelatin with 1 cup of boiling water in a medium bowl. Stir constantly until the gelatin is fully dissolved—this creates that vibrant, flavorful liquid that will soak straight into the cake. Afterward, stir in ½ cup cold water to cool down the mixture, making it ready to be poured without melting the cake’s whipped topping later.
Step 3: Poke the Cake and Pour Gelatin
Using the end of a wooden spoon or a fork, gently poke holes evenly all over the cooled cake. This step is the secret behind the “poke cake” name and ensures the strawberry gelatin seeps deep into every bite. Slowly drizzle the gelatin mixture over the cake, letting the pink liquid sink into the holes, infusing the cake with incredible strawberry flavor and moistness. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 3 hours so the gelatin can set nicely.
Step 4: Add Whipped Topping and Garnish
Once your cake is chilled and set, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly across the surface for a creamy finish. If you want to take it up a notch, add fresh sliced strawberries on top. These not only boost the strawberry flavor but also lend a gorgeous, fresh look to the cake. Slice and serve chilled for the best experience.
How to Serve Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh strawberries or even a few mint leaves can elevate the look and taste of your strawberry poke cake. The fresh fruit pairs beautifully with the soft whipped topping, giving each slice a lovely balance of sweetness and freshness that’s irresistible.
Side Dishes
This cake is generally sweet enough to stand alone but pairs wonderfully with a light scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of homemade whipped cream. A cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee also complements the strawberry flavors and balances the richness of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, try serving your Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe in individual mason jars layered with extra fresh strawberries and whipped topping, making it portable and adorable. Alternatively, garnish with edible flowers for a festive occasion or drizzle a little melted white chocolate over the top for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover strawberry poke cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days while maintaining its moist texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you’d like to store this cake longer, freezing is an option. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results. Note that the whipped topping texture might slightly change after freezing.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the gelatin and whipped topping. Instead, simply serve cold straight from the fridge for that perfect cool and refreshing bite every time.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of gelatin?
Fresh strawberries add wonderful flavor and texture but won’t provide the same moist, infused jelly effect the strawberry gelatin creates. The gelatin is key to achieving the classic poke cake texture.
What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
You can substitute whipped cream or make your own whipped topping. Just make sure it’s stable enough to hold the cake together and add that creamy finish that complements the strawberry gel.
Can this cake be made with other flavors?
Absolutely! You can swap out the strawberry gelatin for other flavors like raspberry or lemon to create different versions of this poke cake. Just be sure to pick a gelatin flavor that pairs well with the white cake base.
How long does it take for the gelatin to set in the cake?
Allow at least 3 hours of refrigeration for the gelatin to fully set and soak into the cake. Patience here ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for kids and parties?
Definitely! Its sweet, fruity flavor and colorful presentation make the Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe a hit with kids and adults alike, ideal for birthday parties, picnics, and any happy occasion.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug—simple to make, delightfully tasty, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again when you want something sweet and special without any fuss. Give it a go and enjoy every luscious bite!
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Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Strawberry Poke Cake is a delightful and simple dessert featuring a moist white cake infused with sweet strawberry gelatin. After baking, the cake is punctured with holes to soak in the strawberry-flavored gelatin, creating a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Topped with creamy whipped topping and fresh strawberries, this cake is perfect for gatherings or a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients needed on the package: eggs, water, and oil)
Gelatin Mixture
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
Topping
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- Optional: Fresh strawberries, sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven according to the white cake mix package instructions to ensure correct baking temperature.
- Prepare Cake Batter: Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box, combining all required ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Bake Cake: Bake the cake according to the package instructions, usually about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan so that it is set and ready for the gelatin infusion.
- Make Gelatin Mixture: In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved for a smooth mixture. Then add ½ cup cold water and mix well to bring the gelatin to a cool, pourable temperature.
- Poke Cake Holes: Use a fork or the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the cooled cake. These holes allow the gelatin to soak in deeply.
- Pour Gelatin Over Cake: Slowly and evenly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake surface, letting the gelatin seep into the holes, infusing the cake with strawberry flavor.
- Refrigerate: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, allowing the gelatin to set firmly inside the cake.
- Add Topping: Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled and set cake, creating a creamy and light layer on top.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish the cake with fresh sliced strawberries for added freshness and visual appeal.
- Serve: Slice the cake, serve it chilled, and enjoy the moist, flavorful strawberry poke cake.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before poking holes and pouring the gelatin to prevent melting the gelatin.
- You can use any flavor of gelatin to create variations of this poke cake.
- For a lighter version, substitute the whipped topping with a low-fat or Greek yogurt-based topping.
- If fresh strawberries are not available, consider using other fruits like blueberries or raspberries as garnish.
- This cake is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
