If you are looking for a dessert that combines playful texture, vibrant color, and irresistibly sweet strawberry flavor, this Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s surprisingly simple to make, featuring soft white cake soaked with strawberry gelatin, layered with creamy vanilla pudding, and topped off with a cloud of fluffy Cool Whip. Every bite bursts with juicy strawberry goodness and silky smoothness, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a special indulgence to brighten your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color in this delightful cake. Each one plays an important role in creating that luscious strawberry experience that makes this poke cake truly unforgettable.
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix: Provides a light and tender cake base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 box (3 oz) sugar-free strawberry Jell-O: Adds that iconic strawberry flavor with a bright, eye-catching red color.
- 1 box (1 oz) instant sugar-free vanilla pudding mix: Offers a creamy, dreamy texture that balances out the fruity gelatin.
- 8 oz Cool Whip: Creates a light, airy topping that brings everything together with smooth sweetness.
- 1.5 cups water: Essential for dissolving the Jell-O and mixing the cake batter properly.
- 2 cups milk: Used to prepare the vanilla pudding for that rich, silky layer.
How to Make Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Get the Oven Ready
Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on your white cake mix box. This ensures the perfect baking temperature so your cake rises evenly and bakes into a soft, fluffy base.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Prepare the cake batter following the box directions, then pour it into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake until it’s beautifully golden and springy to the touch – usually about 30 minutes. This white cake will be the perfect canvas for all the luscious layers to come.
Step 3: Poke and Prepare for the Jello
Once the cake is slightly cooled but still warm, grab a wooden spoon handle and gently poke holes all over the surface. This is the magic step where the strawberry Jell-O will seep in, infusing every bite with bright berry flavor.
Step 4: Make the Jello Layer
Dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water, then stir in ½ cup cold water to bring it down to room temperature. Pour this sweet, fragrant liquid over the cake, making sure it fills every hole you poked earlier so the flavor is locked inside the cake’s tender crumb.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Pop the cake in the refrigerator and chill for 3 to 4 hours. This waiting time lets the Jell-O set perfectly and meld into the cake, transforming it into a moist, flavorful treat you’ll love.
Step 6: Add the Vanilla Pudding Layer
While the Jell-O is setting, prepare the vanilla pudding by whisking the instant pudding mix with 2 cups of milk until it thickens to a soft-set consistency. Once your cake is chilled, spread this creamy pudding layer evenly on top of the strawberry gelatin for a silky, luscious contrast.
Step 7: Top with Cool Whip and Serve
Finally, dollop the Cool Whip over the pudding layer, spreading it out to create a fluffy, cloud-like finish. You can add fresh strawberries or sprinkles as garnish if you’d like. Chill a little longer if needed, then slice and serve this dreamy Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe to your eager guests!
How to Serve Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh strawberries, mint leaves, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the look of your poke cake. These touches add a pop of freshness and color, making the dessert as inviting visually as it is delicious to eat.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments such as a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit salad. These sides complement the creamy, fruity layers of the cake without overwhelming its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, try serving individual portions in clear glass cups or jars, showcasing the beautiful layers of white cake, sparkling strawberry Jell-O, and creamy vanilla pudding topped with Cool Whip. It’s a charming way to display this classic Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe and makes every serving feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, maintaining its fresh texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this poke cake because the gelatin and pudding layers may lose their texture once thawed, turning watery or grainy. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh within a few days.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled and is not suitable for reheating. The layers are designed to be cool and refreshing, perfect for warm days or whenever you want a delightful, cool dessert.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake instead of the box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade white cake or even yellow cake works beautifully and adds a personal touch, though using a mix keeps the process fast and foolproof.
What if I don’t have sugar-free Jell-O?
Regular strawberry Jell-O works just as well if you don’t need the sugar-free option. The taste and texture won’t change much, just keep an eye on the overall sweetness.
Can I make this cake without the pudding layer?
You can skip the pudding if you prefer, but it really enhances the creamy texture and balances out the fruity Jell-O. Without it, the cake might be a bit sharper in flavor.
How long does the cake need to chill after adding the Jell-O?
At least 3 to 4 hours is best to ensure the gelatin sets fully and soaks into the cake perfectly.
Can I use fresh strawberries in this recipe?
Fresh strawberries are a fantastic garnish and add fresh flavor, but the cake’s main strawberry taste comes from the Jell-O, which is essential for that classic poke texture and color.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe is a wonderfully nostalgic dessert that’s incredibly easy and rewarding to make. It beautifully balances sweetness, creaminess, and fresh fruity notes in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something fun and delicious, this cake will bring smiles and happy moments all around. Trust me, once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to desserts!
Print
Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a delightful and refreshing dessert featuring a moist white cake base infused with sugar-free strawberry gelatin, topped with a creamy vanilla pudding layer and light Cool Whip. Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, this poke cake combines fruity flavor and creamy texture for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- Water, as per cake mix instructions
Jello Layer
- 1 box (3 oz) sugar-free strawberry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
Pudding Layer
- 1 box (1 oz) instant sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
Topping
- 8 oz Cool Whip
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven according to the white cake mix package instructions to ensure proper baking temperature.
- Prepare and Bake Cake: Follow the directions on the cake mix box to prepare the batter, then pour it into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake as directed until done.
- Poke Holes: After baking, allow the cake to cool slightly. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the cake surface, which will allow the Jell-O to seep in and soak.
- Dissolve Jell-O: In a separate bowl, dissolve the sugar-free strawberry Jell-O powder in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir thoroughly, then add ½ cup cold water to cool it down.
- Pour Jell-O over Cake: Slowly pour the prepared Jell-O evenly over the cake, making sure the liquid seeps into the holes for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Chill the Cake: Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for 3 to 4 hours until the Jell-O sets firmly within the cake.
- Prepare Pudding: Mix the instant sugar-free vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of milk until the pudding is soft-set and thickened.
- Layer Pudding: Spread the prepared vanilla pudding evenly over the set Jell-O layer on the cake.
- Add Topping: Top the pudding layer with 8 oz of Cool Whip, spreading gently to cover the entire surface. Optionally, garnish with fresh strawberries or other desired toppings before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to poke the holes evenly and deep enough so the Jell-O liquid can seep throughout the cake layers for moistness and flavor infusion.
- Chilling the cake for at least 3 hours is essential to allow the Jell-O to set properly.
- You can garnish with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or sprinkles for added flair.
- Use sugar-free pudding and Jell-O to reduce sugar content for a lighter dessert option.
