Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the softness of cake with the refreshing taste of strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, this cake impresses guests and satisfies sweet cravings. The unique layering of strawberry Jell-O, vanilla pudding, and Cool Whip creates a dessert that is not only visually appealing but also deliciously indulgent. Whether it’s a summer picnic or a birthday celebration, Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe uses a box mix for the cake, making it simple to prepare even for beginner bakers.
• Perfectly Sweet: The combination of strawberry Jell-O and vanilla pudding provides a light yet satisfying sweetness that everyone will love.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this cake ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge, making it perfect for busy days.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful layers and fluffy topping make this cake look stunning on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is straightforward when you have the right tools. Gather these essential items to streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing and poking holes in the cake.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for the perfect texture.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the pudding mixture smoothly.

Ingredients

Vanilla Poke Cake – Quick & Easy, But Impressive for Guests! This Light Cake Starts with a Box Mix and is Topped with Strawberry Jell-O, Vanilla Pudding and Cool Whip! Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is the Perfect Comfort Food Dessert!

For the Cake

• 1 15.25 oz box white cake mix (prepare with ingredients on box)

For the Jell-O

• .3 ounce sugar free strawberry jello (1 box)

For the Pudding

• 1 ounce instant vanilla pudding mix sugar free (1 box)
• 2 cup milk

For Topping

• 8 ounces Cool Whip

Other Ingredients

• 1 ½ cup water

How to Make Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Prepare your cake according to the instructions on the box. Once baked, use the handle end of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the surface of the cake. Chill in the fridge for 3-4 hours.

Step 2: Make the Jell-O

In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup boiling water with ½ cup cold water until dissolved. Pour this mixture over your chilled cake. Although it may seem like too much liquid, trust that the cake will absorb it perfectly.

Step 3: Prepare Vanilla Pudding

While your cake absorbs the Jell-O, mix instant vanilla pudding with 2 cups of milk. Let it sit until soft set. Once ready, smooth this mixture over the top of your cake.

Step 4: Add Cool Whip

Finally, spread 8 ounces of Cool Whip evenly over your pudding layer to finish off your delicious Strawberry Jello Poke Cake.

Now you have a stunning dessert ready to serve! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

Individual Serving Cups

• Layer the cake in clear cups with whipped topping and fresh strawberries for an attractive presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Fruits

• Top each slice with sliced strawberries or blueberries. This adds freshness and enhances the visual appeal.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over the whipped topping can create an indulgent flavor contrast.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream provides an extra creamy texture and richness.

Add Mint Leaves

• A few fresh mint leaves on top of each slice can add color and a refreshing taste.

Use Whipped Cream Decoration

• Pipe additional whipped cream around the edges of the cake to make it look even more inviting and festive.

How to Perfect Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Making the perfect Strawberry Jello Poke Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow your cake to cool completely before poking holes; this prevents excess moisture from escaping.
• Mix Thoroughly: When combining the Jell-O and boiling water, stir well until fully dissolved for even flavor distribution.
• Chill Between Steps: Refrigerating between layers helps the flavors meld better and makes for a firmer texture when serving.
• Opt for Fresh Strawberries: Using fresh strawberries not only enhances flavor but also improves presentation.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, consider using less sugar in the pudding mix or Cool Whip.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Serving side dishes alongside Strawberry Jello Poke Cake can create a complementary dining experience. Here are some great options that pair well with this dessert.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess pairs perfectly with the light texture of the poke cake.
3. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing citrus sorbet can cleanse the palate after enjoying this dessert.
4. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These treats enhance the strawberry theme while adding richness.
5. Pineapple Whip: A light, fluffy pineapple whip complements the flavors in the poke cake beautifully.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake, making for a balanced spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Jello Poke Cake, it’s easy to overlook some important steps that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not letting the cake cool: Make sure to allow your cake to cool completely before poking holes in it. This will prevent the cake from falling apart and ensure it absorbs the Jell-O properly.

• Using too much liquid for Jell-O: Follow the instructions carefully for mixing the Jell-O. Using too much water can lead to a soggy cake. Stick to the specified amounts for best results.

• Skipping chilling time: Patience is key! If you skip refrigerating the cake after adding the Jell-O, it may not set properly, resulting in a less cohesive dessert.

• Choosing low-quality toppings: The topping can make or break your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake. Use high-quality Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream for better flavor and texture.

• Ignoring serving suggestions: Pay attention to serving sizes. This dessert is rich, and a small slice goes a long way. Avoid cutting large portions that may overwhelm your guests.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Strawberry Jello Poke Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Freezing Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

• You can freeze this cake for up to 1 month.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, warm your slice covered with a lid for about 5 minutes, until warmed through without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different flavors of Jell-O?

Yes! While this recipe features strawberry, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry or cherry for a unique twist on your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake.

How do I make this Strawberry Jello Poke Cake gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free white cake mix instead of regular white cake mix. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dessert without gluten concerns.

Can I customize my poke cake toppings?

Absolutely! You can add fresh strawberries, other fruits, or even chocolate shavings on top of your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake for extra flavor and presentation.

Is this Strawberry Jello Poke Cake suitable for parties?

Definitely! This cake is visually appealing and incredibly tasty, making it an ideal dessert option for parties and gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is not only a delightful treat but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its refreshing flavor and creamy texture make it perfect for summer picnics or family gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings to make it your own! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful Strawberry Jello Poke Cake, a dessert that beautifully marries soft vanilla cake with the refreshing essence of strawberries. This vibrant treat is layered with strawberry Jell-O, creamy vanilla pudding, and fluffy Cool Whip, making it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a summer picnic or hosting a birthday bash, this cake is guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, allowing even novice bakers to create a show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
• 1 box (3 oz) sugar-free strawberry Jell-O
• 1 box (1 oz) sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups milk
• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 1.5 cups water

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Instructions

1. Bake the white cake according to package instructions. Once cooled, poke holes in the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup boiling water with the Jell-O powder until dissolved, then pour over the poked cake.
3. Prepare vanilla pudding by mixing the instant pudding with 2 cups of milk until thickened. Spread over the Jell-O layer.
4. Top with Cool Whip and chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (107g)
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg