Strawberry Poke Cake: Easy Recipe & Delicious Variations

Strawberry Poke Cake: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly moist and flavorful dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat! Imagine a tender, fluffy cake infused with the sweet, vibrant taste of strawberries, topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting. This isn’t just a cake; it’s a nostalgic trip back to potlucks and family gatherings, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Poke cakes, in general, have a fascinating history, gaining popularity in the 1970s as a simple way to add extra flavor and moisture to boxed cake mixes. The concept is brilliantly straightforward: bake a cake, poke holes in it, and then pour a liquid filling into those holes, allowing the cake to absorb all that deliciousness. This Strawberry Poke Cake takes that classic idea and elevates it with the irresistible taste of fresh strawberries.

What makes this dessert so beloved? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the soft, spongy cake, the luscious strawberry filling, and the smooth, creamy topping. The convenience factor is also a major draw; using a boxed cake mix as a base makes it quick and easy to prepare, even for novice bakers. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; the end result is a show-stopping dessert that tastes like it took hours to create. Get ready to experience the magic of Strawberry Poke Cake!

Ingredients:

• 1 (15.25 ounce) package white cake mix
• 1 (3 ounce) package strawberry gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Baking the Cake

1. First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
2. Now, prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions. Usually, this involves combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Make sure to follow the instructions on your specific cake mix for the best results. Don’t overmix the batter; just combine until everything is nicely incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, and we want a light and fluffy one!
3. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking. You can use cooking spray with flour already in it for extra convenience, or grease with shortening and then dust with flour, tapping out any excess.
4. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. This ensures a uniform thickness and even baking.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on it, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. You want a golden brown color and a springy texture.
6. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan. This prevents the cake from crumbling when you poke holes in it. About 10-15 minutes of cooling time is perfect.

Preparing the Strawberry Gelatin

1. While the cake is cooling, let’s get the strawberry gelatin ready. In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. This is important to ensure a smooth and even distribution of the gelatin throughout the cake.
2. Add 1/2 cup of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir well. This helps to cool the gelatin down slightly and prevents it from melting the whipped topping later on.

Poking and Soaking

1. Now comes the fun part! Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, poke holes all over the top of the slightly cooled cake. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced and go all the way down to the bottom of the cake. The more holes you poke, the more gelatin will soak in, resulting in a super moist and flavorful cake.
2. Slowly pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the poked cake, making sure to distribute it evenly. The gelatin will seep into the holes, saturating the cake and giving it that signature poke cake texture.
3. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the gelatin to fully set and the cake to absorb all the delicious strawberry flavor. The longer it chills, the better!

Frosting and Garnishing

1. Once the cake is thoroughly chilled and the gelatin is set, remove it from the refrigerator.
2. Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake. Make sure to cover the entire surface, creating a smooth and creamy layer. You can use a spatula or a knife to achieve a nice, even finish.
3. Arrange the sliced fresh strawberries on top of the whipped topping. Get creative with your arrangement! You can create rows, patterns, or simply scatter them randomly for a rustic look. The fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
4. Refrigerate the cake for another 30 minutes before serving. This allows the whipped topping to firm up slightly and the flavors to meld together even more.
5. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Strawberry Poke Cake!

Tips and Variations

Here are a few extra tips and variations to make your Strawberry Poke Cake even more amazing:

• Use a different flavor of gelatin: If you’re not a fan of strawberry, you can easily substitute it with another flavor, such as raspberry, cherry, or even lime. Just make sure the flavor complements the cake and the topping.
• Add a layer of cream cheese frosting: For an extra decadent treat, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the cake before adding the whipped topping. This adds a tangy and creamy element that pairs perfectly with the strawberry flavor. To make the cream cheese frosting, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of softened butter, 3 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
• Use a homemade cake: While a boxed cake mix is convenient, you can also use your favorite homemade white cake recipe for this poke cake. Just make sure the cake is light and fluffy so it can absorb the gelatin properly.
• Add a sprinkle of nuts: For a little crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the top of the cake along with the strawberries.
• Drizzle with chocolate: A drizzle of melted chocolate can add a touch of elegance and richness to the cake. Use white chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate, depending on your preference.
• Make it a trifle: For a fun and festive presentation, layer the poke cake with whipped cream, strawberries, and other berries in a trifle bowl. This is a great option for parties and gatherings.
• Use frozen strawberries: If fresh strawberries are not in season or readily available, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using them.
• Add a layer of strawberry jam: Before adding the whipped topping, spread a thin layer of strawberry jam over the cake. This will enhance the strawberry flavor and add a touch of sweetness.
• Make mini poke cakes: Instead of baking the cake in a 9×13 inch pan, bake it in muffin tins to create individual mini poke cakes. This is a great option for portion control and easy serving.
• Don’t overbake the cake: Overbaking the cake will result in a dry and crumbly texture, which won’t absorb the gelatin as well. Be sure to check the cake frequently while it’s baking and remove it from the oven as soon as a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool completely before poking holes: Poking holes in a hot cake can cause it to crumble and fall apart. Allow the cake to cool slightly before poking holes to prevent this from happening.
• Use a pastry bag for the whipped topping: For a more professional-looking finish, use a pastry bag fitted with a decorative tip to pipe the whipped topping onto the cake.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator: Leftover Strawberry Poke Cake should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Poke Cake!

Conclusion:

This Strawberry Poke Cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a burst of summer in every bite, and honestly, one of the easiest and most rewarding cakes you’ll ever bake. The combination of the moist, tender cake, the sweet strawberry gelatin, and the creamy, dreamy whipped topping is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears in minutes, leaving everyone wanting more. Why is this a must-try? Because it’s foolproof! Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can absolutely nail this recipe. The poke cake method ensures that every single crumb is infused with that delicious strawberry flavor, creating a texture that’s both light and incredibly moist. Plus, the vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece for any occasion, from casual backyard barbecues to more formal gatherings. It’s a guaranteed hit! But the best part? The versatility! While the recipe as written is absolutely divine, there’s plenty of room for customization. Feeling adventurous? Try using different flavors of gelatin! Raspberry, cherry, or even lime would be fantastic variations. You could also experiment with different types of cake mix. A lemon cake mix would complement the strawberry beautifully, adding a touch of tangy brightness. For serving suggestions, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh strawberries on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. A drizzle of white chocolate ganache would also be a decadent addition. And if you’re feeling particularly fancy, you could even serve individual slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of homemade whipped cream. Another fun variation is to use a sugar-free cake mix and sugar-free gelatin for a lighter, guilt-free treat. You can also substitute the whipped topping with a lighter version or even a Greek yogurt-based frosting for a healthier twist. The possibilities are truly endless! I truly believe that this Strawberry Poke Cake will become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself whipping it up time and time again. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making and sharing it. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a slice of happiness! I’m confident that you’ll absolutely love this recipe. And now, the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your photos, comments, and feedback in the comments section below. I’m so excited to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy baking! Let me know if you have any questions, I am always here to help. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

Print