There’s something irresistibly fun about the Strawberry Jello Poke Cake. It’s the kind of dessert that sparks nostalgia and excitement all at once, with its vibrant colors and delightful texture. Each forkful offers a moist cake soaked with flavored Jello, creating a unique blend of spongy and refreshing that’s perfect for any occasion.
The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, and yet, it looks impressive when served. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer BBQ, or just want to enjoy something sweet on a weekday, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a dollop of Whipped Cream for extra creaminess or enjoy it alongside a chilled glass of Iced Tea for the perfect balance.
This dessert also offers endless customization—use any Jello flavor you like, and feel free to experiment with colorful layers. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a show-stopping cake that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Be Hooked On To This Recipe?
- Easy to make: A simple recipe that delivers impressive results every time.
- Customizable: Play with different Jello flavors and colors for a unique spin.
- Moist and refreshing: The cake soaks up the Jello, creating a moist texture that’s both sweet and tangy.
- Perfect for any occasion: From casual picnics to celebrations, it’s a dessert everyone will love.
- A classic crowd-pleaser: It’s always a hit, and you can make it ahead of time, which is a bonus for busy hosts.
Try this Jello Poke Cake at your next gathering and watch everyone dive in for a second (or third) slice!
Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Fork (for poking the cake)
- Mixing bowl (for Jell-O)
- Spoon (for pouring Jell-O)
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 box 15.25 ounces white cake mix, plus ingredients listed on the box
- 1 box 3 ounces strawberry Jell-O (or raspberry or cherry)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 8-ounce tub whipped topping (or 2 cups whipped cream)
Instructions
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat oven and prepare the cake as directed on the box, baking it in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Let it cool for 15 minutes after baking.
Poke the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled, use a fork to poke holes at ½–1-inch intervals across the surface of the cake.
Make the Jell-O
- In a bowl, combine the boiling water with the strawberry (or raspberry/cherry) Jell-O mix, stirring until dissolved. Then add the cold water and mix until fully incorporated.
Pour the Jell-O Over the Cake
- Gradually spoon the Jell-O liquid over the cake, allowing it to soak in between additions. Ensure that the cake absorbs all the liquid.
Chill
- Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for 3–4 hours, allowing the Jell-O to set and the cake to fully absorb the flavors.
Top with Whipped Topping
- Right before serving, spread whipped topping (or whipped cream) over the top of the cake.
Nutritional Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 205 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 0.1 g |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Protein | 0.001 g |
| Sugar | 0.1 g |
Tips and Tricks that Will Ease Your Job!
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavored Jell-O mixes like raspberry or cherry for a twist. You can also try using lime or lemon for a citrusy zing.
- Whipped Cream vs Whipped Topping: While store-bought whipped topping is convenient, freshly whipped cream offers a richer, homemade flavor.
- Make-Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge. It allows the flavors to meld and the cake to fully soak up the Jell-O.
- Toppings: For added texture, try topping with fresh strawberries, berries, or even chocolate shavings.
