Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a dessert that combines sweet nostalgia with modern simplicity, and Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is just that.
Its light, vanilla base soaks up vibrant strawberry gelatin, turning into a moist, fruity treat topped with a fluffy layer of whipped cream.
This cake brings back memories of summer barbecues, but it’s just as fitting for a cozy, love-filled celebration.
Pair it with a hearty dish like Cheesy Baked Goulash—loaded with savory goodness and bubbling cheese—and you’ve got the perfect meal to warm the heart.
Made with pantry essentials like boxed cake mix and Jello, this poke cake looks and tastes like it took hours, but it’s an absolute breeze to make.
Serve it at your next gathering and watch it steal the spotlight! And, of course, we’d love to see your own twist on this classic.
Why This Is My Go-To Recipe
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- A Crowd-Pleaser: Every time I make this, it’s the first dessert to disappear. Even picky eaters love it!
- Customizable Fun: I’ve swapped the strawberry Jello for lime, raspberry, and even tropical flavors to suit different occasions.
- Summer Perfection: Its chilled, refreshing sweetness is ideal for hot days when you crave something light and fruity.
- Nostalgic Appeal: It reminds me of summers at my grandma’s house, and it’s always a hit with family.
Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Fork
- Offset Spatula
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 3- ounce box strawberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 8- ounce tub Cool Whip topping
- Strawberries for garnish optional
Instructions
- Bake the cake in a 9×13-inch pan following the box instructions, then let it cool for 15 minutes.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the cake, about ½ inch apart.
- Mix the dry Jello with 1 cup of boiling water in a bowl and stir until dissolved. Add 1 cup of cold water and mix well.
- Slowly pour the Jello mixture over the cake, ensuring it soaks into all the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours to set.
- Spread Cool Whip evenly over the chilled cake and top with fresh strawberries.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.