This Best Strawberry Poke Cake is a crowd-pleaser that features a moist vanilla cake filled with sweet strawberry goodness. Topped with creamy whipped frosting, what’s not to love?
Every time I make this, my family can’t wait to dig in! It’s so easy to prepare, and it looks as bright and cheerful as a sunny day. Perfect for celebrations or just because! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Mix: A white cake mix is the base for this dessert. If you’re looking for a homemade touch, you can use your favorite from-scratch vanilla cake recipe instead. You can also try a yellow cake mix for a richer flavor.
Strawberry Gelatin: This gives the cake its fruity flavor and lovely color. If you want a healthier option, consider using fresh pureed strawberries instead, mixed with some sugar and gelatin to set.
Fresh Strawberries: Using fresh strawberries is key for flavor and decoration. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen strawberries, just thaw and drain them first for best results.
Whipped Topping: While Cool Whip is a convenient choice, you can whip up your own heavy cream with a bit of sugar for a fresh taste. I personally love the homemade whipped cream as it’s creamier!
How Do You Perfectly Poke Holes in the Cake?
Poking holes into the cake is crucial for allowing the gelatin to soak in. Make sure to let the cake cool for about 15 minutes, so it doesn’t fall apart. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes; the holes should be about an inch apart. This step is key for infusing the flavor!
- Let the cake cool slightly before poking holes to prevent it from breaking.
- Poke holes all over the cake, but avoid poking all the way to the bottom. This allows the gelatin to soak without making a mess.
- After pouring the gelatin mixture, make sure the holes are filled for an even flavor throughout!
How to Make Best Strawberry Poke Cake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Strawberry Poke Cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 30-35 minutes to bake, and at least 2 hours to chill. So, grab your ingredients and relax while you create this delicious dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan so the cake doesn’t stick. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined, which should take about 2 minutes.
2. Bake the Cake:
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake according to the package instructions, usually about 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, stick a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
3. Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin:
While the cake is baking, grab another bowl and dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir it until it’s completely dissolved. Then, add in 1 cup of cold water and set this mixture aside to cool.
4. Create the Poke Holes:
Once the cake is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Then, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the cake. This is where the strawberry gelatin will soak in for extra flavor!
5. Add the Gelatin:
Carefully pour the cooled strawberry gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, making sure to fill the holes nicely. Let the cake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours until the gelatin is set.
6. Finish with Topping:
After the cake is chilled and the gelatin has set, spread the whipped topping evenly on top. Decorate with the sliced fresh strawberries and add mint leaves on top for a pretty garnish if you like!
7. Serve:
Cut the cake into squares and serve it chilled. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Poke Cake that everyone will love!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! You can substitute the white cake mix with any flavor you like, such as vanilla, lemon, or even chocolate. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the cake will affect the overall taste of the poke cake, so choose a flavor that you enjoy!
How Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
You can prepare this cake a day before serving. After spreading the topping, cover it with plastic wrap or a cake dome and refrigerate. Just keep in mind that the strawberries may soften overnight, but the flavors will meld together beautifully!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so simply slice the cake and serve it straight from the refrigerator!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. Fresh strawberries do add a nice texture and flavor, but thawed strawberries will still work well in this recipe.
