Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

The strawberry poke cake is a delightful dessert that takes you on a journey of taste and texture. It combines the simplicity of a white cake mix with the vibrant tanginess of strawberry jell-o, all topped off with a fluffy layer of whipped topping. The process of poking holes allows the jell-o to seep into the cake, creating a moist and flavorful treat.

Photos of Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and can be easily found in most grocery stores. However, ensure you have strawberry jell-o and a tub of whipped topping in your shopping list. These two components greatly influence the flavor profile and texture of the poke cake. White cake mix is used for ease but you can substitute with any cake mix of your liking.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

White cake mix: This is the base for our cake. It's convenient and saves time. However, you're free to use any other cake mix that you prefer.

Strawberry jell-o: This brings the strawberry flavor to our poke cake and keeps it moist.

Water: It's used to prepare both, the cake mix and the jell-o.

Whipped topping: This light and fluffy topping brings a creamy balance to the tangy strawberries.

One reader, Fleming Smallwood says:

This strawberry poke cake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of moist cake, sweet strawberry jell-o, and fluffy whipped topping is simply divine. It's a hit at every gathering, and I love how easy it is to make. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and always leaves everyone wanting more!

Fleming Smallwood

Techniques Required for Making Strawberry Poke Cake

How to prepare the cake: Mix the white cake mix according to the package instructions and bake it in a 9x13-inch pan.

How to make the strawberry jell-o mixture: Dissolve the strawberry jell-o in boiling water, then add cold water and stir until well combined.

How to poke the cake: After the cake has cooled for about 15 minutes, use a chopstick to poke small holes all over the cake.

How to pour the jell-o over the cake: Slowly pour the prepared strawberry jell-o mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills all the holes.

How to refrigerate the cake: Place the cake in the refrigerator for about 3 hours or overnight to allow the jell-o to set.

How to top the cake with whipped topping: Spread the whipped topping over the chilled cake before serving.

How To Make Strawberry Poke Cake

Sink your teeth into this moist strawberry poke cake, made with white cake soaked in Jell-o, with a sweet finish of fresh strawberries and whipped cream!

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 23 minutes

Chill and Cool Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Total: 4 hours 3 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1boxwhite cake mix,plus ingredients required to prepare cake
3ozstrawberry Jell-o,(1 box)
1cupwater,boiling
½cupwater,cold
1tubwhipped topping,such as Cool Whip

Instructions

Prepare the cake according to directions in a 9×13-inch pan.
Remove from oven and let cool about 15 minutes. Poke the entire cake all over to create small holes using a chopstick.
Combine the Jell-o and boiling water and stir until the Jell-o is completely dissolved. Add the cold water.
Pour Jell-o over the cake slowly ensuring it gets in all of the holes.
Refrigerate for about 3 hours or overnight.
Top with Cool Whip and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 251.57kcal
Fat: 8.09g
Saturated Fat: 2.79g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.96g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.91g
Carbohydrates: 42.35g
Fiber: 0.39g
Sugar: 31.10g
Protein: 3.00g
Cholesterol: 11.40mg
Sodium: 325.36mg
Calcium: 100.09mg
Potassium: 73.64mg
Iron: 0.62mg
Vitamin A: 28.20µg
Vitamin C: 0.13mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Your Poke Cake

When pouring the jell-o mixture over the cake, make sure to do it slowly and evenly. This will ensure that the mixture seeps into all the holes and gives the cake a uniform strawberry flavor. Also, using a chopstick or the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes in the cake can help create the perfect size for the jell-o to fill.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the cake and jell-o mixture the night before, so you can simply assemble and refrigerate the next day.

Use a cake mix: Save time by using a boxed cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch.

Chill the cake: Place the cake in the freezer for 30 minutes to speed up the cooling process before adding the jell-o.

Quick assembly: Use a chopstick to make the holes in the cake quickly and efficiently.

Efficient cooling: Cut the cake into individual servings before refrigerating to speed up the chilling process.

Ready-made topping: Substitute whipped topping with store-bought whipped cream for a quicker finish.

Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

white cake mix - Substitute with vanilla cake mix: Vanilla cake mix can provide a similar flavor and texture to the white cake mix, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
strawberry jell-o - Substitute with raspberry jell-o: Raspberry jell-o can offer a similar fruity flavor and vibrant color, complementing the cake just like strawberry jell-o.
water - Substitute with strawberry juice: Strawberry juice can infuse the cake with a fruity flavor, enhancing the overall strawberry essence of the dessert.
whipped topping - Substitute with coconut whipped cream: Coconut whipped cream can provide a creamy and slightly tropical flavor, adding a unique twist to the dessert.

Presenting Your Strawberry Poke Cake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the strawberry poke cake, focus on creating a visually stunning presentation. Use a combination of fresh strawberries and mint leaves to add color and vibrancy to the dish. Arrange the strawberries in an artful manner, and sprinkle some powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a contrasting element to the dish by adding a crunchy component such as candied almonds or pistachios. This will not only enhance the overall texture but also add a sophisticated twist to the dessert.
Utilize edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by incorporating edible flowers such as rose petals or lavender to the presentation. These delicate blooms will add a pop of color and a subtle floral aroma, elevating the overall dining experience.
Customized plating: Consider using edible gold leaf or silver leaf to add a luxurious and extravagant touch to the dish. This will create a visually striking presentation that is sure to impress the judges with its opulence.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Every detail matters, from the angle of the strawberries to the placement of the whipped topping. Precision and meticulousness will showcase your culinary expertise and attention to detail.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Poke Cake

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters.
9x13-inch pan: Ideal for baking sheet cakes and casseroles.
Chopstick: Used for poking holes in the cake to allow the jell-o to seep in.
Whisk: Used for mixing and incorporating ingredients smoothly.
Spatula: Essential for spreading and smoothing the whipped topping on the cake.
Measuring cup: Used for accurately measuring liquids and dry ingredients.
Cake tester: Helps to check if the cake is fully baked by inserting it into the center of the cake.

Storing and Freezing Your Strawberry Poke Cake

Let the strawberry poke cake cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake in the refrigerator, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze the cake, it's best to do so before adding the whipped topping. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Label the cake with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to serve the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, add the whipped topping and any other desired toppings, such as fresh strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
If you have leftover cake that has already been topped with whipped cream, you can still freeze it. Place the cake in the freezer until the whipped topping is firm, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To serve, remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before slicing and enjoying.

Interesting Trivia About Strawberry Poke Cake

The strawberry poke cake recipe is a popular dessert that originated in the United States. It is believed to have been created in the 1970s and gained popularity due to its simplicity and delicious taste. This dessert is often served at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings, and it's a favorite among both kids and adults. The combination of moist cake, sweet strawberry jell-o, and creamy whipped topping makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. It's a versatile recipe that can be customized with different flavors of jell-o and toppings, allowing for endless variations to suit individual preferences.

Is Making Strawberry Poke Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

This strawberry poke cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as cake mix, strawberry jell-o, and whipped topping, are affordable and readily available. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. In terms of the overall verdict, I would rate this recipe a solid 9. The combination of moist cake infused with fruity jell-o and creamy topping creates a delightful treat that's both economical and delicious.

Is Strawberry Poke Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

The strawberry poke cake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe relies on a boxed white cake mix, which often contains refined flour, sugar, and artificial ingredients
Jell-O is high in sugar and artificial colors, providing little nutritional value
Whipped topping is typically made with hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup, and artificial flavors

However, this classic dessert can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you're looking to make it a bit healthier, consider these suggestions:

Use a whole grain or gluten-free cake mix, or make the cake from scratch using whole wheat pastry flour and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Replace the Jell-O with a homemade strawberry puree, made by blending fresh strawberries with a touch of honey or maple syrup
Top the cake with fresh whipped cream, made by whipping heavy cream with a touch of vanilla extract and natural sweetener, or opt for a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein boost
Add fresh sliced strawberries on top for extra fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
Cut the cake into smaller portions to encourage mindful indulgence

By making these simple swaps, you can create a strawberry poke cake that's a bit more wholesome without sacrificing flavor. Remember, the key to a healthy lifestyle is balance – it's okay to enjoy a sweet treat now and then, especially when you make an effort to incorporate more nutritious ingredients.

Editor's Opinion on the Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

The strawberry poke cake recipe is a delightful and refreshing dessert. The combination of moist white cake infused with strawberry jell-o creates a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. The light and airy whipped topping adds a creamy finish, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. The simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to prepare, and the vibrant colors make it an eye-catching addition to any dessert table. Overall, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress with its delicious taste and beautiful presentation.

Enhance Your Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits tossed in a honey-lime dressing

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Poke Cakes

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Take your broccoli to the next level with this garlic parmesan roasted broccoli recipe. The crispy, cheesy coating adds a delicious twist to this classic vegetable, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: Impress your dinner guests with this honey mustard glazed salmon. The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the tender, flaky fish, creating a dish that is both elegant and delicious.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well with This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These bite-sized appetizers are the perfect way to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sophistication.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy, decadent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the vibrant flavors of a beef stir fry, where tender strips of beef are stir-fried with an array of colorful vegetables and aromatic seasonings. The dish is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami, making it a delightful and wholesome meal.

Why trust this Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, using a combination of white cake mix and strawberry jell-o to create a moist and flavorful dessert. The incorporation of whipped topping adds a light and creamy finish. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, and the use of strawberry jell-o infuses the cake with a burst of fruity flavor. With its simple yet effective technique, this recipe guarantees a delightful and refreshing treat that will surely impress your guests.

Want to share your experience making this Strawberry Poke Cake or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section and let's talk about this delightful dessert!

FAQ:

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a type of cake that has holes poked into it after baking, which are then filled with a liquid or filling. In this recipe, we use strawberry Jell-O to infuse the cake with a burst of fruity flavor.

Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?

Absolutely! You can customize the flavor of your poke cake by using different flavors of Jell-O. Feel free to experiment with flavors like raspberry, cherry, or even lime to create a variety of delicious poke cakes.

Can I make the cake from scratch instead of using a cake mix?

Yes, you can definitely make the cake from scratch if you prefer. Simply use your favorite white cake recipe and bake it in a 9x13-inch pan. Once the cake is baked, you can proceed with the poking and Jell-O pouring steps as outlined in the recipe.

How far in advance can I make the poke cake?

You can make the poke cake a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This will allow the Jell-O to set and infuse the cake with flavor, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert for gatherings or special occasions.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can use freshly whipped cream as a topping for the poke cake if you prefer. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form, and then spread it over the chilled cake before serving.