Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Poke Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that combines a soft cake with the sweet burst of strawberry jello and creamy whipped topping. The unique “poke” technique allows the strawberry jello to seep into the cake, creating pockets of flavor and making each bite extra indulgent. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for any celebration or casual gathering. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer dessert or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, Strawberry Poke Cake is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

1 box of white cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box: eggs, oil, water)
1 (3 oz) package strawberry Jello
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
½ cup sweetened condensed milk (optional for added creaminess)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions. Bake in a 9×13-inch baking dish until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (usually about 30-35 minutes).
Poke the cake: Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart. Be sure to poke the cake down to the bottom but not all the way through.
Prepare the strawberry Jello: In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved. Add 1 cup of cold water and mix well.
Pour the Jello over the cake: Slowly pour the prepared strawberry Jello over the cake, making sure to cover the entire surface, letting it seep into the holes. The Jello will soak into the cake and create pockets of flavor.
Chill the cake: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until it’s well chilled and the Jello has fully set.
Top with whipped cream: Once chilled, spread a layer of whipped topping over the cake, smoothing it evenly across the surface.
Add fresh strawberries: Garnish with diced fresh strawberries on top for added flavor and a beautiful finishing touch.
Serve: Slice and serve the cake chilled for a refreshing, delightful dessert.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 slices
Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Chill Time: 2-3 hours

Variations

Berry Twist: Add a mix of berries such as blueberries or raspberries along with the strawberries for a colorful and flavorful combination.
Lemon Poke Cake: Swap the strawberry Jello for lemon Jello for a tart, citrusy version of the poke cake.
Chocolate Version: Use a chocolate cake mix and swap the strawberry Jello for raspberry or cherry Jello for a rich, fruity contrast.
Cream Cheese Layer: For a more decadent cake, mix cream cheese with the whipped topping to create a cream cheese layer between the cake and whipped topping.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake remains moist and flavorful even after chilling.
Reheating: This cake is best served cold and does not require reheating. If you want the whipped topping to be slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different flavor of Jello?

Yes! You can experiment with different flavors of Jello, such as raspberry, lime, or orange, to create variations of the cake with different fruit flavors.

2. Do I need to make the cake from scratch, or can I use a box mix?

You can easily use a box mix for convenience, but feel free to make the cake from scratch if you prefer. Either option works well for this recipe.

3. How do I make the cake extra moist?

The Jello and whipped topping both add moisture to the cake. Additionally, using a moist cake mix (like a cake with pudding added) can enhance the texture and moisture.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, Strawberry Poke Cake is perfect for making ahead. It needs to chill for at least 2-3 hours, so making it the day before an event is a great option.

5. Can I use sugar-free Jello?

Yes, you can use sugar-free Jello if you prefer a lower-calorie version of the cake. The flavor will still be delicious!

6. Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can make your own whipped cream if you prefer, though whipped topping like Cool Whip is often used in poke cake recipes because of its texture and stability.

7. What can I use if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?

If you don’t have a 9×13-inch pan, you can use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan. Just note that your cake will be thicker, so you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

8. Can I freeze Strawberry Poke Cake?

While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Make sure to freeze it without the whipped topping and fresh strawberries. Add the topping when you’re ready to serve.

9. Can I use canned strawberries instead of fresh?

You can use canned or frozen strawberries, but fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor when garnishing the cake.

10. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.

Conclusion

Strawberry Poke Cake is a simple, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of moist cake, sweet strawberry Jello, and fluffy whipped topping makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, family gathering, or as a fun treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress and delight with its vibrant flavors and textures!