Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for when you want something sweet, light, and ridiculously easy to make. It’s a chilled cake that’s bursting with fresh strawberry flavor in every bite, thanks to strawberry gelatin that seeps into the soft white cake. Topped with whipped cream and real strawberries, this cake is a total crowd-pleaser and perfect for spring or summer gatherings. The best part? You can make it ahead, and it only gets better as it sits!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: If you can bake a boxed cake, you can make this recipe—no fancy baking skills required.
• Incredibly Moist: The strawberry gelatin poured over the cake gives it an ultra-moist texture that’s truly irresistible.
• Perfect for Warm Weather: This chilled dessert is refreshing and fruity, just right for summer cookouts, potlucks, or Mother’s Day brunch.
• Great for Make-Ahead: It tastes even better the next day, making it a stress-free option for entertaining.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to pull together this delicious Strawberry Poke Cake:

• White Cake Mix: A simple base that’s light, fluffy, and perfect for absorbing all that strawberry flavor.
• Strawberry Gelatin Mix: This is the magic that soaks into the cake and gives you that signature “poke cake” burst of flavor in every bite.
• Boiling Water: Needed to dissolve the gelatin and infuse it into the cake properly.
• Cool Whip or Whipped Topping: Adds a creamy, cloud-like finish on top of the cake. Make sure it’s thawed for easy spreading.
• Fresh Strawberries: For topping and garnish. Slice them up and add just before serving for a fresh, juicy bite.
• Optional Toppings: Crushed freeze-dried strawberries, white chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for extra flair.

Variations

Want to switch it up? Try these tasty twists:

• Different Flavors: Swap the strawberry gelatin for raspberry, cherry, or even orange for a fruity twist.
• Homemade Cake Base: Skip the box and use your favorite homemade white or vanilla cake recipe.
• Cream Cheese Layer: Blend softened cream cheese with the whipped topping for a tangy, richer topping.
• Berry Combo: Add blueberries or raspberries with the strawberries on top for a beautiful mixed berry version.

How to Make Strawberry Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions using a 9×13-inch baking pan. Let it cool for at least 20–30 minutes once baked.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Once the cake is cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon (or a straw or skewer) to poke holes all over the top of the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 3: Make the Gelatin

In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Let it cool just slightly so it’s still pourable but not too hot.

Step 4: Pour the Gelatin

Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, making sure to fill the holes. Don’t worry if it pools a little—it will soak in beautifully.

Step 5: Chill the Cake

Cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours (overnight is even better) to allow the gelatin to fully set.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Spread thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries just before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Let the Cake Cool Before Poking: Poking while hot can make the cake too soft and the holes messy.
• Chill Time Is Key: The longer the gelatin sits in the cake, the more flavorful and moist it becomes.
• Use a Ladle or Measuring Cup to Pour Gelatin: This gives you more control and helps ensure the mixture soaks evenly into the holes.
• Keep It Covered: Store the cake covered in the fridge to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors.

How to Serve

Strawberry Poke Cake is best served cold, straight from the fridge. It’s light, creamy, and refreshing, especially on a warm day. Slice it into squares and top each one with extra strawberries or even a sprig of mint for a little fancy touch. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of lemonade, iced tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re going all out.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. The whipped topping holds up well, and the flavors just keep getting better.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted gelatin-infused cake for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then add the whipped topping and strawberries fresh before serving.

Reheating

No reheating needed here—this is a cold cake! Just slice and serve directly from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade white or vanilla cake works beautifully here. Just make sure it’s baked in a 9×13 pan and fully cooled before adding the gelatin.

Can I make this cake a day in advance?
Yes, in fact, it’s even better the next day! The extra time lets the strawberry flavor soak all the way through the cake, and the texture becomes even more moist.

Do I have to use whipped topping, or can I use real whipped cream?
You can definitely use real whipped cream, just be aware it’s best served the same day. Stabilized whipped cream is a better option if you want to prepare it ahead.

What’s the best way to poke the holes?
A wooden spoon handle works great, but you can also use a drinking straw or skewer. Just make sure the holes are deep enough for the gelatin to seep in.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, fruity dessert that never fails to impress, Strawberry Poke Cake is it. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it’s practically made for sharing. Whether you’re making it for a party, potluck, or just a weeknight treat, this cake is sure to steal the show—so go ahead and give it a try!

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