Description
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dessert that’s a hit at any occasion, this Strawberry Poke Cake is the answer! Combining a moist cake base with sweet strawberry gelatin, topped with fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberries, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a party, or just a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Ingredients for the Cake:
- 1 box white or vanilla cake mix (or homemade cake)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
Ingredients for the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Ingredients for the Topping:
- 2 cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional)
- Strawberry syrup (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lightly greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Cake: In a large bowl, follow the instructions on the cake mix box. Typically, mix the cake mix with eggs, water, and oil (or melted butter). Use a hand mixer or whisk to combine everything until smooth.
Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake according to the instructions on the box, usually for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before proceeding. This is important to prevent the Jello from melting too quickly and not soaking properly.
Poke the Cake: Once the cake is slightly cool, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the cake. The holes should be deep enough to allow the Jello to seep in but not so deep that they cause the cake to fall apart.
Prepare the Jello: In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jello in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved, then add 1/2 cup cold water.
Pour the Jello: Pour the Jello mixture slowly over the poked cake, allowing it to seep into all the holes. Let the cake absorb the Jello for about 30 minutes.
Add the Topping: Spread the whipped topping over the entire cake. If you’re using fresh strawberries, slice them and scatter them on top for added flavor and decoration.
Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the Jello to fully set and the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Once chilled, slice the cake into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Customization Tip: You can switch up the flavor of the Jello. Try raspberry, cherry, or blueberry for different variations.
- Healthier Options: Use sugar-free Jello and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.
- Make Ahead: This cake is perfect for making a day or two in advance. Let it chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (baking time)
- Category: dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: Moist strawberry cake, Easy poke cake recipe, Strawberry poke cake