If you’re looking for the ultimate retro summer dessert, STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is as deliciously nostalgic as it gets! This crowd-pleaser features a fluffy white cake, juicy strawberry ribbons, and creamy whipped topping—each forkful is light, fruity, and refreshingly cool.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Show-Stopping Color: The vibrant pink strawberry ribbons make every slice look like it belongs at a party.
- Incredibly Easy: With boxed cake mix and just a few ingredients, you’ll have it on the table with minimal fuss.
- Perfectly Chilled: This cake is served straight from the fridge, making it a refreshing treat on warm days.
- Family Favorite: STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is a nostalgic classic that delights both kids and adults every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is its simplicity—each ingredient plays an important role, from the tender base cake to the fruity strawberry flavor, and a cloud of whipped topping to finish. Gather everything before you start, and you’re on your way to a slice of nostalgic bliss!
- White Cake Mix: The classic foundation for this dessert, producing a light and fluffy texture with minimal effort.
- Strawberry Jello (3-ounce box): Gives the cake its signature bright stripes of sweet, tangy berry flavor and gorgeous pink color.
- Boiling Water: Completely dissolves the Jello, making sure the flavor soaks right into the poke holes.
- Cold Water: Helps the Jello begin to set, letting it seep into the cake without making it soggy.
- Cool Whip Topping (8-ounce tub): Adds a creamy, airy layer that balances the fruity punch of the Jello.
- Fresh Strawberries (optional): For the final flourish—they add a burst of freshness and make the cake look irresistible.
Variations
One of the joys of STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is just how easy it is to customize! You can easily make it your own by swapping flavors, toppings, or even turning it into a fun-filled treat for special dietary needs.
- Try Different Jello Flavors: Raspberry, cherry, or even orange Jello all give the cake a delicious (and colorful!) twist.
- Switch Up the Cake Base: Use yellow cake, vanilla, or even angel food cake for a unique flavor and texture twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap Cool Whip for a coconut whipped topping to keep things dairy-free but just as dreamy.
- Extra Fruity: Add a layer of fresh sliced strawberries between the cake and whipped topping for more berry in every bite.
How to Make STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE
Step 1: Bake the Cake
First things first: prepare the white cake mix according to the box directions, then bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Try not to overbake—the goal is a soft, moist crumb. Once it’s done, let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes so it’s sturdy enough for the poke step.
Step 2: Poke and Prepare the Jello
When the cake has cooled a bit, grab a fork and gently pierce it all over at ½-inch intervals. Meanwhile, dissolve the strawberry Jello completely in 1 cup boiling water—take your time stirring, about 2 minutes. Then, stir in the cold water to cool the mixture down so it won’t melt the cake.
Step 3: Pour, Chill, and Set
Carefully pour the Jello mixture over the cake, trying to distribute it evenly, especially into the little poked holes. Don’t worry if it pools a bit—it will soak in as the cake chills. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 3 hours so the Jello sets to a wonderful, stripey pattern inside each slice.
Step 4: Frost and Garnish
Once the Jello has set, spread a generous layer of Cool Whip all over the top. This is your fluffy snow-white cloud! For the final touch, add fresh strawberry slices or a few whole berries as a simple, beautiful garnish. Keep the cake chilled until you’re ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Making STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE
- Cool Before Poking: Poke the cake while it’s still a little warm but not hot—this helps the Jello soak in without causing sogginess or tearing.
- Dissolve Jello Thoroughly: Stir the Jello until it’s completely dissolved before adding cold water for even flavor in every bite.
- Even Pouring: Pour the Jello mixture slowly and all over the cake’s surface—use a spoon to guide it right into the poke holes for maximum stripe effect inside.
- Chill Time Is Key: Give the cake enough time to chill (at least 3 hours, but overnight is even better) so the flavors have time to marry and the texture is picture-perfect.
How to Serve STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE
Garnishes
A simple crown of fresh strawberry slices creates a beautiful and classic finish for this cake, but you can get creative—try a few mint leaves, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a handful of colorful sprinkles for a playful touch.
Side Dishes
Since STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE is light and fruity, it pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a little fruit salad, or a refreshing iced tea for a quintessential afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this cake right from the pan for easy family gatherings, or try slicing it into neat squares, arranging them on a platter, and topping each with a strawberry fan for a special occasion. Mini Mason jar versions are a hit at picnics and parties, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE covered and stored in the refrigerator; it stays perfectly fresh and delicious for up to three days. In fact, a bit of chill only makes those flavors even more lovely.
Freezing
You can freeze STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE (without the Cool Whip topping) for up to a month. Wrap well and thaw in the fridge before adding whipped topping and strawberries for serving. Keep in mind, the texture is best fresh, but freezing works in a pinch!
Reheating
No reheating needed—this cake is meant to be served cold! It’s at its very best straight from the fridge, perfect for sunny days or when you want a refreshingly cool dessert.
FAQs
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Can I make STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE a day ahead?
Absolutely! This cake is actually at its very best when made ahead. Chilling overnight lets the flavors and colors blend beautifully—you’ll end up with moist, flavorful slices that are easy to serve.
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Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Definitely! Just whip heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar to stiff peaks; spread it on just before serving for a rich, homemade touch (but do keep it cold, as fresh whipped cream is less stable at room temperature).
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What’s the best way to poke the holes?
Use the tines of a regular fork and poke all over the cake at half-inch intervals. Don’t poke all the way through to the bottom—just deep enough for the Jello to soak all the way into the cake, but not under the pan.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free white cake mix, and double-check that your Jello and toppings are gluten-free. The process and flavor will be the same—everyone can enjoy a slice!
Final Thoughts
If you love bright, cheerful desserts that are as easy as they are delicious, you’ll adore making (and sharing!) a STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE. It’s a celebration in every bite—so why not whip one up and make today a little sweeter?
Print
STRAWBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a light and fluffy white cake infused with strawberry Jello and topped with creamy Cool Whip, it’s a treat that will please everyone.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
Jello Mixture:
- 1 3–ounce box strawberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Topping:
- 1 8–ounce tub Cool Whip topping
- Strawberries for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Prepare and bake the white cake mix in a 9×13-inch pan according to the package instructions. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Jello Mixture: In a 2-cup glass measuring cup, dissolve the strawberry Jello in boiling water. Stir in cold water until well combined.
- Poke the Cake: Using a fork, pierce the cake at ½-inch intervals.
- Add the Jello: Carefully pour the Jello mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the fork holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours.
- Frost and Garnish: Once chilled, spread the Cool Whip over the cake and top with strawberries if desired. Keep refrigerated until serving.
Notes
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (assuming equal division)
- Calories: Approximately 250 calories
- Sugar: Approximately 20g
- Sodium: Approximately 300mg
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g
- Fiber: Less than 1g
- Protein: Less than 2g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg
