STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a cake that’s blissfully moist, bursting with fresh berry flavor, and impossibly easy to make, look no further—STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is about to become your new go-to dessert! With its vibrant pink stripes and whipped topping cloud, it’s as satisfying to eat as it is cheerful to serve, no matter the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is how delightfully simple the ingredients are. Each one plays a starring role, from the fluffy cake base to the bright strawberry burst and that irresistible cloud of whipped topping!

• White cake mix: Pick your favorite brand for a soft, tender base—plus, it keeps things super quick and easy.
• Strawberry Jello (3-ounce box): This is the secret behind those stunning pink stripes and the classic fruity flavor.
• Boiling water: Dissolves the Jello powder so it can permeate every fork hole in the cake.
• Cold water: Cools down the Jello just enough for that perfect pour-over consistency.
• Cool Whip topping: Provides a sweet, pillowy frosting that keeps things light and airy, not heavy or overly sweet.
• Strawberries (for garnish): Optional, but highly recommended for a gorgeous finish and a burst of fresh berry flavor!

Variations

Part of the fun with STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is just how wildly customizable it is. Swap, tweak, and experiment based on what you love or what you have on hand—it’s nearly impossible to mess up!

• Try Different Jello Flavors: Raspberry, cherry, or even a combo of two flavors totally transforms the personality of your cake.
• Switch Up the Cake Base: Use vanilla, yellow, or even chocolate cake mix for exciting new flavors with the same fun color-stripes.
• Dairy-Free Topping: Swap Cool Whip for coconut whipped topping if you need a dairy-free dessert everyone can enjoy.
• Add a Cream Cheese Layer: Spread sweetened cream cheese under the whipped topping for an extra-indulgent touch.

How to Make STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare the white cake mix as directed on the box, baking it in a 9×13-inch pan. Don’t forget to grease the pan so nothing sticks! Once it’s done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes—this helps it firm up just enough for the next step.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Here’s where the signature “poke” magic happens. Using a fork, poke holes all over the slightly cooled cake at about ½-inch intervals. Don’t be shy—you want plenty of spots for the Jello to seep down and create those dreamy, wavy pink lines!

Step 3: Make the Jello

In a large glass measuring cup, whisk the strawberry Jello with 1 cup of boiling water—not just until it’s mixed, but until it’s totally dissolved, about 2 minutes. Then add ½ cup cold water to bring down the temperature so it’s just right for pouring.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Very carefully, pour the Jello mixture slowly all over the surface of your poked cake, aiming for an even distribution. The Jello should run into the holes and start working its magic. Now pop the cake into the fridge for at least 3 hours to let everything set up and chill through.

Step 5: Frost and Garnish

Once the cake has chilled and the Jello has soaked in, it’s time to frost! Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the top, making soft, swoopy peaks. For the grand finale, garnish with fresh sliced strawberries for a pop of color and juicy sweetness. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

How to Serve STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE

Garnishes

For that irresistible “wow” effect, top each slice with a fan of fresh strawberry slices or even a few sprigs of mint. A light dusting of grated white chocolate or pastel sprinkles adds whimsy for birthdays or baby showers!

Side Dishes

STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is a star all on its own, but if you want a party vibe, serve it alongside fresh fruit salad, crisp lemonade, or a refreshing glass of iced tea. For a spring brunch, try pairing it with deviled eggs or finger sandwiches—your guests will swoon!

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the cake into neat squares and stack on a vintage cake stand for a retro-chic look, or use a round cookie cutter for playful single-serve circles. For festive gatherings, layer cubed poke cake with extra berries and whipped topping in clear cups for showstopping parfaits!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to meld, and the cake stays delightfully moist for up to three days—if it lasts that long!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE! Just wrap unfrosted pieces well in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge. For best texture, add the Cool Whip and any fresh strawberry garnish after thawing.

Reheating

This is a cake best enjoyed cold or at chilled room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply slice and serve straight from the fridge—each bite is cool, creamy, and berry-bright!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a chilled, stripey slice of STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE on a sunny day. It’s simple, playful, and pretty much guaranteed to make everyone smile. Grab your fork and a handful of strawberries—this is the kind of sweet treat that begs to be shared. I hope you love it as much as my family does!

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