Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

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Strawberry poke cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla or chocolate swirl ice cream, whose cold creaminess contrasts the moist cake. A dollop of whipped cream adds light, airy texture and visual appeal.

Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries bring vibrant flavor contrast. Warm coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness, while a soft cheese platter with cream cheese or ricotta offers a delicious, unexpected twist.

It’s a sunny day, and you’re hosting friends for a leisurely afternoon get-together. You’re looking for something that’s not just easy to make, but will also steal the show.

Enter strawberry poke cake—an enchanting dessert that not only captivates the eyes but also satisfies the taste buds.

Let me take you on a journey through this sweet indulgence. This cake is more than just dessert; it’s a canvas for creativity, topped with vibrant strawberries and luscious frosting. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll find yourself making excuses just to whip it up again.

Table of Contents

What is Strawberry Poke Cake?

Strawberry poke cake is a charming dessert that transforms a basic cake mix into an impressive and delightful treat. The “poke” refers to holes poked into the cake after it’s baked.

These holes are then filled with a strawberry-flavored gelatin, allowing the flavors to seep in and create a moist, flavorful center. Topped with fluffy whipped frosting and fresh strawberry slices, this cake becomes a visual and culinary delight.

The beauty of this dessert lies not just in its taste but also in its ease of preparation. It caters to both novice bakers and seasoned pros. With a simple list of ingredients, a few mixing bowls, and a little bit of patience, your masterpiece will be ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Poke Cake

Let’s dive a little deeper into why strawberry poke cake will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

1. Simplicity: The appeal of time-saving recipes is undeniable. This cake relies on a boxed cake mix, which makes it a quick and hassle-free option for gatherings.
2. Flavor Explosion: With each slice, you experience the delightful contrast of a fluffy and moist cake, complemented by the tartness of the strawberries and the sweetness of the frosting. It’s a party of flavors in your mouth!
3. Visual Appeal: Presentation matters, and this cake doesn’t disappoint. The vibrant red strawberries atop the elegantly frosted cake create an eye-catching dessert that will have your guests reaching for their cameras.
4. Versatile: Want to experiment? You can easily switch up the flavors. Lemon, raspberry, or even peach could be great substitutes for the strawberry gelatin, allowing you to tailor this treat to different palates.
5. Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy lifestyles, you can prep this cake a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until it’s time to serve, making your day smoother and more enjoyable.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Strawberry Poke Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this tasty masterpiece:

12 ripe strawberries, halved
1 package Super Moist Vanilla Cake Mix
Water, vegetable oil, and egg whites as directed on the cake mix package
1 container Fluffy White Whipped Frosting
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup freshly boiled water
1 package strawberry-flavored gelatin dessert

Directions

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of actually making this delicious treat! Follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box, usually around 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to have it hot and ready for your cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with the required amounts of water, vegetable oil, and egg whites as directed on the package. Stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Keep that elbow grease going until everything is well-blended.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased rectangle baking dish. Bake according to the cake mix package instructions—typically around 25 to 30 minutes—until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Poke the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, take a fork and poke holes all over the top of the cake. The holes should be about an inch apart.

Step 5: Mix the Gelatin

In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in one cup of freshly boiled water, stirring until it’s fully dissolved. This step is crucial as it creates the strawberry-flavored infusion that will seep into the cake.

Step 6: Pour the Gelatin Over the Cake

Carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the surface of the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. It might look like a lot, but trust the process! Let it cool completely in the fridge for at least four hours (or overnight if you’re planning ahead).

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has set and the gelatin has done its magic, it’s time to spread the whipped frosting over the top. Make it as thick or as thin as you desire.

Step 8: Add Strawberries

Finally, arrange the halved strawberries on top of the frosted cake. Feel free to get creative here; you can create patterns or simply scatter them around for a casual look.

Notes

Here are some tips to help you nail your strawberry poke cake:

Cooling Time: Make sure to let your cake cool adequately before poking holes. This prevents it from falling apart.
Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for fresh over frozen strawberries to enhance flavor and texture. They add that perfect burst of juiciness!
Gelatin Variations: Experiment with different flavors of gelatin for a fun twist—grape or cherry can provide a different yet delightful taste.
Serving Size: Consider cutting smaller pieces for gatherings—this makes it easier for guests to take a slice, especially when there are many desserts on the table.
Chill Before Serving: Chilling the cake allows the flavors to meld and ensures a refreshing bite. No one enjoys a warm frosted cake!

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, store any leftover cake in the refrigerator.

Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It’s best consumed within 3-5 days. The cake may lose moisture over time, so do your best to keep it sealed properly!

Nutrition Information

Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Ready to serve your creation? Here are a few ideas that will make your strawberry poke cake even more delightful:

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side can turn this dessert into an exceptional treat, especially on warm days.
Pair with Coffee: A nice cup of coffee can cut the sweetness and balance out your dessert beautifully.
Top with Additional Fresh Berries: A sprinkle of mixed berries on the plate allows for color and flavor variety, enhancing presentation.
Add a Mint Leaf: Garnishing with a fresh mint leaf provides a lovely pop of color and a hint of refreshing flavor.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle over the frosting can satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Strawberry Poke Cake?

Got allergies or preferences? Here are some substitutes for key ingredients:

Cake Mix: Gluten-Free Cake Mix. If gluten is a concern, opt for a gluten-free variety available at most grocery stores.
Egg Whites: Flaxseed Meal. Combining one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water can replicate the binding action of eggs.
Whipped Frosting: Cream Cheese Frosting. For a richer flavor, try using cream cheese frosting in place of whipped frosting.
Strawberry Gelatin: Any Fruit-Flavored Gelatin. Explore flavors like raspberry or peach for an exciting twist.
Fresh Strawberries: Canned Strawberries. In a pinch, canned strawberries can work, though they may alter the cake’s texture.

Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

Strawberry poke cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla or chocolate swirl ice cream, whose cold creaminess contrasts the moist cake. A dollop of whipped cream adds light, airy texture and visual appeal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 45

Total Time 2

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 370 kcal

Equipment

oven

Ingredients

12 ripe strawberries halved
1 package Super Moist Vanilla Cake Mix
Water vegetable oil, and egg whites as directed on the cake mix package
1 container Fluffy White Whipped Frosting
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup freshly boiled water
1 package strawberry-flavored gelatin dessert