This Best Strawberry Poke Cake is a fluffy treat filled with sweet strawberry goodness. It’s light, moist, and topped with whipped cream, making it perfect for any gathering!
I love how this cake brings back childhood memories of summer picnics! Plus, it’s super easy to make—just poke, fill, and frost. You won’t want to share this one! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cake Mix: A box of white cake mix is super convenient. If you prefer homemade, you can use a simple vanilla cake recipe instead. For gluten-free, look for gluten-free cake mixes available in stores.
Eggs: Eggs add structure and moisture. If you’re vegan, consider using applesauce (1/4 cup per egg), silken tofu, or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) as substitutes.
Strawberry Gelatin: The gelatin gives flavor and a fun texture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute with agar-agar to make your own berry gel environment.
Whipped Topping: I love Cool Whip for ease, but for a homemade touch, whip your own heavy cream with sugar. Non-dairy whipped toppings are great for vegan versions.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are ideal for garnishing, but you can also use other berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.
How Do I Ensure My Cake Stays Moist and Fluffy?
Keeping your cake moist starts with the mixing and baking process. Follow these tips:
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined.
- Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean, not dry.
- Let your cake cool slightly (10 mins) before poking holes – this helps it hold the gelatin better and keeps it moist.
Chilling the cake in the fridge also enhances the moisture as the gelatin sets in the holes. Enjoy your baking!
How to Make the Best Strawberry Poke Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
For the Strawberry Gelatin:
- 1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
For Topping:
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious poke cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. After that, you’ll need a couple of hours in the fridge to chill and set, making it a total of around 3 hours and 15 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it with some butter or oil, then dust it lightly with flour. In a large bowl, mix together the white cake mix, eggs, and 1 cup of water. Blend it well according to the package instructions until it’s smooth and combined.
2. Bake the Cake:
Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking pan and bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check if it’s done, poke the center with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Once done, take it out and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
3. Poke and Prepare the Gelatin:
While the cake is cooling, prepare the strawberry gelatin. In a bowl, mix the strawberry gelatin with 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until it’s completely dissolved. After that, add 1 cup of cold water and mix it again until it’s well combined.
4. Drizzle the Gelatin:
Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use a fork to poke holes all over the top of it. Pour the strawberry gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps down into the holes. This helps to flavor and moisten the cake! Let it cool completely, then pop it into the fridge for at least 2 hours so it can set nicely.
5. Add the Topping:
After the cake has chilled and set, gently spread the whipped topping evenly over the top. Decorate it with the fresh sliced strawberries and add some mint leaves as a garnish if you’d like—this gives it a lovely touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake into pieces and serve it chilled. Enjoy your delightful Best Strawberry Poke Cake with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the white cake mix for any flavor you prefer. A yellow cake mix or even a strawberry cake mix would work great and add a different taste to your poke cake.
How Do I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed to keep the cake moist. You can also cover it with plastic wrap if you’re keeping it in the original baking pan.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the regular white cake mix. Just be sure to follow the preparation instructions on the gluten-free mix for the best results.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture before layering them on top of the cake. This will help maintain the cake’s texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
