Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberry with the light texture of a poke cake. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or a simple weeknight treat. Its vibrant colors and creamy layers make it visually appealing, while the combination of flavors ensures it will be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This cake starts with a box mix, making it simple to whip up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of strawberry Jell-O and vanilla pudding creates a refreshing and satisfying taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic or holiday celebration, this cake fits right in.
• Light and Fluffy Texture: The cake absorbs the Jell-O, resulting in a moist and airy dessert.
• Impressive Presentation: The layers of toppings look stunning and will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a lump-free pudding mixture.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for poking holes in the cake without damaging it.
• Refrigerator: Important for chilling the cake to enhance flavor absorption.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

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

For the Strawberry Layer

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

For the Vanilla Layer

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

For the Topping

• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 1 ½ cup water

How to Make Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare your cake according to the instructions on the box. Once baked, remove it from the oven and poke holes all over the surface using the handle end of a wooden spoon. This allows the Jell-O to seep into the cake. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for 3-4 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Jell-O

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup boiling water with ½ cup cold water. Add in the sugar-free strawberry Jell-O mix and stir until completely dissolved. Carefully pour this mixture over your chilled cake. Don’t worry if it seems like too much liquid; the cake will absorb it without becoming soggy.

Step 3: Make Vanilla Pudding

While your cake absorbs the Jell-O, prepare the vanilla pudding mixture. In another bowl, mix together 1 ounce instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups milk. Let it sit until soft-set, then smooth this mixture evenly over the top of your poke cake.

Step 4: Add Cool Whip

Finally, top off your dessert by spreading 8 ounces of Cool Whip over the vanilla pudding layer. Once completed, return your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake to the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Serving Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is all about enhancing its refreshing flavors and delightful textures. This dessert pairs well with various accompaniments that elevate the experience for your guests.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Top slices of the cake with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for an added burst of flavor.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas complement the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delicious contrast to the lightness of the cake.
• Strawberry Sorbet: For a fruity twist, serve it alongside strawberry sorbet to enhance the berry flavor.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over each slice adds a rich touch that appeals to chocolate lovers.
• Caramel Sauce: Sweet caramel sauce can enhance the overall sweetness and create a decadent layer.

Garnish with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint not only adds color but also a refreshing aroma that complements the dessert beautifully.

How to Perfect Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake turns out perfect every time, follow these essential tips.

• Boldly poke holes: Use the handle end of a wooden spoon to poke deeper holes in the cake. This helps the jello soak in better for maximum flavor.
• Boldly chill before serving: Allowing your cake to chill for at least 3-4 hours lets all flavors meld together and ensures a moist texture.
• Boldly layer carefully: Spread the vanilla pudding gently over the jello layer to maintain distinct layers and enhance presentation.
• Boldly use cold ingredients: Ensure that your milk for the pudding mix is cold. This helps achieve a thicker consistency when setting.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake can create a complete meal experience. Here are some delightful options you can consider.

1. Bold Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes provides a crisp contrast to the sweet dessert.
2. Bold Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken skewers marinated in herbs add savory depth to your meal.
3. Bold Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring out earthy flavors that balance well with the sweetness of the cake.
4. Bold Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad serves as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of cake.
5. Bold Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches make for an excellent finger food option that pairs nicely with desserts.
6. Bold Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides rich flavors and textures that complement strawberry jello poke cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Jello Poke Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Not letting the cake cool properly: Ensure the cake is completely cooled before poking holes. This prevents the Jell-O from leaking out and ensures even absorption.
• Using too much liquid: While it might seem like you need more Jell-O, stick to the recipe. Using excess liquid can make the cake soggy instead of perfectly moist.
• Skipping the chilling time: Letting your cake chill for 3-4 hours is essential. It allows the flavors to meld and gives the cake a better texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Pay close attention to measurements, especially for liquids. Accurately measuring ensures the right consistency and flavor balance.
• Overmixing the pudding: When preparing the pudding, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a grainy texture in your pudding layer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Jello Poke Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days when refrigerated.
• Keep it covered with plastic wrap or foil if you don’t have a container.

Freezing Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container for longer storage and better protection from frost.

Reheating Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as it can alter texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O for this poke cake?

Yes! You can substitute strawberry Jell-O with other flavors like raspberry or cherry for a unique twist on your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake.

How long does Strawberry Jello Poke Cake last in the fridge?

Your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-5 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free cake mix as a base for your poke cake. The rest of the recipe remains the same!

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

Check your cake by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a family dessert night, this recipe is sure to impress everyone. Feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings to make it your own!

Print

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a delightful and visually stunning dessert that combines the refreshing flavors of strawberry with a light, airy texture. This easy-to-make cake, perfect for any occasion from birthday parties to casual weeknight dinners, features a moist cake soaked in vibrant strawberry Jell-O, layered with creamy vanilla pudding, and topped with fluffy Cool Whip. Its impressive presentation and delicious taste make it a sure hit among guests and family alike. Whether served at a picnic or as a festive holiday treat, this Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is bound to be remembered.

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

Instructions

1. Preheat oven and bake the white cake according to package instructions. Once cool, poke holes throughout the surface using the handle of a wooden spoon.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup boiling water with ½ cup cold water and stir in the strawberry Jell-O until dissolved. Pour over the cooled cake.
3. Prepare the vanilla pudding by mixing the pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk until soft-set; spread evenly over the Jell-O layer.
4. Top with Cool Whip and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or bananas on top before serving. Substitute different flavors of Jell-O or pudding for unique variations.