Strawberry Poke Cake
A delightful and vibrant dessert, Strawberry Poke Cake features a tender vanilla cake soaked in strawberry gelatin, topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box vanilla cake mix Can substitute with yellow cake mix or gluten-free cake mix.
- 1 cup water As specified on the cake mix package.
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter Coconut oil can be used for a tropical twist.
- 3 large eggs For an egg-free version, substitute with applesauce (1/4 cup per egg).
For the Gelatin
- 1 package strawberry gelatin (3 oz) Homemade gelatin can be used for a natural option.
- 1 cup boiling water To dissolve the gelatin.
For the Topping
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced Fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream Can use whipped topping for a lighter option.
- ½ cup powdered sugar Adjust sweetness to your taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Making the Gelatin
- Dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Let it cool.
- Once the cake has cooled, poke holes with the handle of a wooden spoon about 1 inch apart all over the surface of the cake.
- Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Frosting and Serving
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
- After the gelatin has set, spread the whipped cream over the top evenly. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled. Optionally, drizzle with chocolate syrup for extra indulgence.
Notes
Don’t skip refrigeration time to allow the gelatin to set properly. For an adventurous twist, add a layer of fresh fruit like raspberries or blueberries. If air pockets occur when pouring gelatin, gently poke with a toothpick to help it settle.