“`html Classic Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

Poke cake is a delightful dessert known for its incredibly moist texture and vibrant flavor. This easy recipe starts with a simple cake mix, then infuses it with sweet strawberry gelatin, creating a beautiful marbled effect inside. Finally, a fluffy white frosting and fresh strawberries complete this charming treat. Get ready to bake a nostalgic dessert that everyone will adore. Originally introduced in the 1970s as a way to promote gelatin, this unique dessert quickly became a beloved classic across American kitchens, as detailed by this history of poke cake.

Why You’ll Love This Poke Cake

This classic poke cake is an absolute winner for its delightful simplicity and fantastic results. It’s perfect for busy parents or beginner bakers looking for a stunning dessert without the fuss.

Effortlessly Simple: This recipe uses a cake mix and store-bought frosting, making the baking process quick and stress-free. You will love how easy it is to assemble.
Incredibly Moist: The gelatin soaks into the cake, transforming it into an exceptionally moist and tender dessert. Each bite is bursting with flavor.
Bursting with Flavor: The strawberry gelatin adds a wonderful fruity tang that perfectly complements the sweet cake. It truly brightens every serving.
Visually Appealing: The vibrant pink streaks from the gelatin make this poke cake a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering. It looks as good as it tastes.
Crowd-P_leasing Classic: Everyone loves a good poke cake, especially one that brings back sweet childhood memories. It’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or family dinners.

Ingredients

Gather these essential ingredients to create your moist and flavorful strawberry poke cake. These basic items come together to form a truly special dessert. Using a cake mix saves time while still delivering a delicious base for our treat.

1 box Betty Crocker™ Super Moist™ White Cake Mix
Water, vegetable oil, and egg whites called for on cake mix box (refer to package for exact amounts)
1 cup boiling water
1 box (4-serving size) Jell-O® strawberry-flavored gelatin
1 tub (12 oz) Betty Crocker™ Whipped Fluffy White Frosting
12 fresh strawberries, cut in half, for garnish

Notes & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your poke cake with these easy substitutions to match your preferences or what you have on hand. Experimenting with flavors is part of the fun!

Cake Mix: Chocolate, vanilla, or yellow cake mixes work beautifully as alternatives.
Gelatin/Pudding: Try raspberry, cherry, or lime gelatin for different fruit flavors. Vanilla or cheesecake flavored instant pudding can also create a creamy version.
Frosting/Toppings: Cream cheese frosting, Cool Whip, or even homemade whipped cream are excellent choices. Drizzle with chocolate syrup for extra indulgence.
Garnishes: Fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries, chocolate shavings, or colorful sprinkles add visual appeal.

Equipment

You won’t need any special tools to bake this fantastic poke cake. Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen, making preparation a breeze. Gather these simple pieces of equipment before you begin.

Baking Pan: 13×9-inch baking pan (glass or metal)
Mixing Bowls: One large bowl for cake batter, one medium bowl for gelatin
Whisk or Electric Mixer: For mixing cake batter and gelatin
Wooden Spoon or Fork: For poking holes in the cake
Cooling Rack: To cool the cake evenly
Icing Spatula: For spreading frosting smoothly

Instructions

Creating this delicious poke cake is simple and rewarding. Follow these clear, step-by-step instructions to ensure your cake turns out perfectly moist and flavorful every time. Take your time with each stage for the best results.

Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Heat your oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). Generously spray the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your poke cake.
Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Use the specific amounts of water, vegetable oil, and egg whites listed on your cake mix box. Mix until the batter is smooth.
Pour & Bake Cake: Carefully pour the prepared cake batter into your greased 13×9-inch pan. Place the pan on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake as directed on the cake mix box for a 13×9-inch pan, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool Partially: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire cooling rack for exactly 20 minutes. This partial cooling is important before adding the gelatin.
Prepare Gelatin: While your cake is cooling, place the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder in a medium heatproof bowl. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the gelatin. Whisk continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved and no granules remain. Set aside to cool slightly.
Poke Holes: After the cake has cooled for 20 minutes, grab the handle of a wooden spoon or the tines of a fork. Evenly poke holes all over the surface of the cake, aiming to poke halfway into the cake itself. Make sure to space them about an inch apart.
Pour Gelatin: Carefully and slowly pour the prepared strawberry gelatin mixture evenly over the top of the poked cake. Ensure the gelatin seeps into all the holes you created. This is where the magic of a poke cake happens.
Chill Cake: Let the cake cool completely on a wire cooling rack at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, transfer the cake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3-4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set and firm.
Frost the Cake: Before frosting, stir the Betty Crocker™ Whipped Fluffy White Frosting in its container. This helps to fluff it up and makes it much easier to spread. Drop spoonfuls of frosting over the chilled cake.
Spread Frosting & Garnish: Using an icing spatula, gently spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Do not press too hard, as this can disturb the gelatin layer.
Slice & Serve: Cut the cake into 4 rows by 3 rows, yielding 12 servings. Garnish each piece of this delightful poke cake with half a fresh strawberry. Serve immediately and enjoy! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Ensuring your poke cake turns out perfectly moist and beautiful is easy with a few expert tricks. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve delicious results every time.

Poking Technique: Poke holes when the cake is still warm, but not piping hot. Aim for holes that are about 1/2 inch to 1 inch deep and evenly spaced. This allows the gelatin to penetrate thoroughly without tearing the cake apart.
Preventing Soggy Cake: Do not over-pour the gelatin. Ensure it absorbs into the holes rather than pooling excessively on top. Cooling the gelatin slightly before pouring also helps it set better.
Clean Frosting: For the smoothest frosting, make sure your poke cake is completely chilled. Dip your icing spatula in warm water and wipe it clean between strokes for a pristine finish.
Make Ahead: This poke cake is perfect for preparing in advance. Make it the day before your event, allowing ample time for chilling and for the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

This versatile poke cake is wonderful for many occasions and stores well. Explore different ways to serve it and get creative with flavor variations to truly make it your own.

Serving Ideas: Serve individual slices with a dollop of extra whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of strawberry sauce can also elevate the presentation and flavor of this poke cake.
Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover poke cake loosely covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The moisture from the gelatin helps keep it fresh.
Freezing & Thawing: You can freeze unfrosted slices of poke cake for up to 1 month. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Variations

Gelatin/Pudding Fillings: Try chocolate instant pudding for a “dirt cake” feel, or lemon gelatin for a bright, citrusy twist. Coconut cream pudding adds a tropical flair.
Frosting & Topping Choices: Beyond whipped frosting, consider a light cream cheese frosting, a simple glaze, or even a rich chocolate ganache. Top with sprinkles, toasted coconut, or different fresh fruits.
Seasonal/Festive Themes: Use red and green gelatin for Christmas, or blue and red for patriotic events. Orange gelatin and chocolate frosting can create a fun Halloween poke cake.

Nutrition

Here is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this classic strawberry poke cake. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient measurements. This delicious dessert offers a sweet treat in moderation.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	350-400 kcal
Total Fat	15-20 g
Saturated Fat	5-8 g
Cholesterol	20-30 mg
Sodium	300-400 mg
Total Carbs	50-60 g
Sugars	35-45 g
Protein	3-5 g

Disclaimer: Nutrition information is an estimate. It is based on standard ingredient calculations and may vary.
For more comprehensive details on the nutritional guidelines and daily recommended intakes, consult the latest information from the USDA.

FAQ

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying this delightful poke cake. We want to make sure you feel confident baking this recipe.

Why is it called a poke cake? The name comes from the simple act of poking holes into the baked cake. These holes allow a liquid, like gelatin or pudding, to soak in and create a super moist, flavorful dessert.
What’s the best tool for poking holes? A wooden spoon handle or the tines of a fork work perfectly. The key is to create holes that are wide enough for the liquid to seep in, but not so large that they tear the cake.
How do I ensure my cake isn’t soggy? Make sure to let the cake cool for the recommended time before poking holes. Also, pour the gelatin slowly and evenly, allowing it to absorb into the cake without pooling too much on top. Proper chilling also helps to set the gelatin.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor? Absolutely! White cake mix is a classic choice for this strawberry poke cake, but yellow, vanilla, or even chocolate cake mixes are fantastic alternatives. Choose your favorite to customize the flavor.

Conclusion

This Classic Strawberry Poke Cake recipe offers a delightful combination of simplicity, vibrant flavor, and an irresistibly moist texture. It’s a truly easy dessert that promises big smiles and sweet satisfaction without requiring advanced baking skills. Perfect for any gathering, this nostalgic treat comes together quickly and always impresses. Whip up this fantastic cake today and enjoy every delicious bite!

“`

Delicious slice of strawberry shortcake, a delightful poke cake variation, on a white plate.

Print Recipe