Strawberry Jello Poke Cake – A Moist & Refreshing Dessert

Introduction

If you’re looking for a light, fruity, and incredibly moist cake, then Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is the perfect dessert! This retro classic features a soft vanilla cake soaked with strawberry Jello, topped with a whipped, creamy layer, and finished with fresh strawberries for an irresistible treat.

Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, summer gatherings, or a simple family dessert, this easy-to-make cake is bursting with strawberry flavor and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Super Moist & Flavorful – The Jello infuses every bite!
✔️ Light & Refreshing – Perfect for warm-weather desserts.
✔️ Easy to Make – Uses a simple cake mix as the base.
✔️ Customizable – Swap flavors or add toppings!
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, BBQs, or holidays.

Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, pro tips, variations, serving ideas, and FAQs to nail this delicious dessert! 🍓✨

What is a Poke Cake?

A poke cake is a soft, baked cake that is “poked” with holes and then soaked with a flavorful Jello, pudding, or syrup mixture. This allows the cake to absorb the flavors and stay ultra-moist, creating a beautiful, marbled effect when sliced.

🌟 The Secret? The Jello seeps into the cake, making it bursting with fruity flavor and irresistibly soft!

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

1. Cake Base (The Foundation) 🎂

White or yellow cake mix – A light, fluffy base that absorbs the Jello well.
Eggs, oil, and water – Needed for the cake mix.

2. Strawberry Jello (The Flavor Infusion) 🍓

Strawberry Jello mix (3 oz package) – The key to the vibrant color & fruity taste.
Boiling water – Dissolves the Jello for easy absorption.

3. Whipped Topping (The Creamy Layer) 🥄

Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream – Adds a light, creamy texture on top.

4. Fresh Strawberries (For Garnish) 🍓

Adds a fresh, juicy touch to the cake.

5. Optional Additions (For Extra Flavor) 🍫🌿

Vanilla pudding – Makes the topping extra creamy.
Shredded coconut or white chocolate shavings – Adds texture & sweetness.
Strawberry glaze – For an extra fruity drizzle.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown & a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Using a fork, wooden spoon handle, or chopstick, poke holes all over the cake.
Make sure the holes go deep enough for the Jello to seep in.

Step 3: Prepare the Jello Mixture

In a bowl, mix:
✅ 1 package (3 oz) Strawberry Jello
✅ 1 cup boiling water
✅ 1/2 cup cold water
Stir until the Jello is fully dissolved.

Step 4: Pour Jello Over Cake

Slowly pour the Jello mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
Refrigerate for 2-4 hours to allow the Jello to set.

Step 5: Make the Whipped Topping

If using Cool Whip, simply spread it over the chilled cake.
For homemade whipped cream, beat:
✅ 2 cups heavy cream
✅ ¼ cup powdered sugar
✅ 1 tsp vanilla extract
Spread evenly over the cake.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Decorate with fresh strawberry slices.
Add chocolate shavings or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for extra flavor.
Slice & serve chilled! 🍓🍰

Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

✔️ Use a fork or chopstick for smaller holes – Helps the Jello absorb better.
✔️ Let the Jello soak for at least 2 hours – Ensures maximum moisture.
✔️ Use a homemade vanilla cake – For a richer flavor.
✔️ Chill before serving – The flavors set better & taste amazing cold!
✔️ Garnish just before serving – Keeps strawberries fresh & vibrant.

Flavor Variations & Customizations

1. Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake 🍋

Use lemon cake mix instead of vanilla.
Swap strawberry Jello for lemon Jello.
Garnish with lemon zest & fresh strawberries.

2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cake 🍫🍓

Use chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla.
Top with chocolate ganache drizzle.

3. Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake 🍰

Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese under the whipped topping.
Use vanilla pudding in the frosting for extra richness.

4. Mixed Berry Poke Cake 🫐🍓

Use a mix of raspberry & strawberry Jello.
Top with blueberries & raspberries for a vibrant look.

5. Low-Sugar & Keto-Friendly Version 🌱

Use sugar-free cake mix & sugar-free Jello.
Swap Cool Whip for keto-friendly whipped cream.

Best Side Dishes & Pairings

Beverages to Serve With This Cake

☕ Vanilla Latte or Iced Coffee – Complements the sweetness.
🍹 Strawberry Lemonade – Refreshing & fruity.
🍷 Sweet Rosé or Moscato – A perfect pairing for summer gatherings.

Other Desserts to Pair With

🍪 Strawberry Shortbread Cookies – A crunchy contrast.
🍦 Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – A creamy pairing.
🍫 Dark Chocolate Truffles – A decadent balance to the fruity cake.

FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better the next day since the flavors meld together.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap slices in plastic wrap & freeze for up to 2 months.

4. Can I use other Jello flavors?

Absolutely! Try raspberry, cherry, or lime for fun variations.

5. What’s the best way to get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water before cutting.

Conclusion

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is moist, fruity, creamy, and absolutely delicious! Whether you make it for a summer picnic, holiday gathering, or just because, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

🔥 Try it today for an easy, refreshing dessert that everyone will love!