Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of strawberry and vanilla in a light, fluffy cake. This dessert is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day. The unique feature of this poke cake is its moist texture, achieved by soaking the cake with luscious strawberry Jell-O. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe starts with a box mix, making it quick and simple for any baker.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of strawberry Jell-O and vanilla pudding creates a deliciously refreshing dessert.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual gathering, this cake fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its beautiful presentation and delightful taste are sure to please everyone at the table.
• Versatile Base: You can easily customize this poke cake with different flavors of Jell-O or pudding.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps to fully incorporate dry ingredients into wet ones, ensuring no lumps remain.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: This size is perfect for poke cakes, providing ample space for soaking and serving.

Ingredients

To create this scrumptious Strawberry Jello Poke Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 15.25 oz box white cake mix (prepare with ingredients on box)
• .3 ounce sugar free strawberry jello (1 box)
• 1 ounce instant vanilla pudding mix sugar free (1 box)
• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 1 ½ cup water
• 2 cup milk

How to Make Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Begin by preparing your cake according to the instructions on the box. Once baked:
1. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
2. Use the handle end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
3. Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for 3-4 hours.

Step 2: Mix the Jell-O

While your cake chills, prepare the strawberry Jell-O:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of boiling water with the sugar-free strawberry jello mix.
2. Stir until completely dissolved.
3. Add ½ cup of cold water and mix well.
4. Pour this mixture over the cooled cake, ensuring it fills all holes.

Step 3: Prepare Vanilla Pudding

In another bowl:
1. Mix the instant vanilla pudding with 2 cups of milk until well combined.
2. Let it sit until it reaches a soft-set consistency.
3. Once set, smooth it over the top of your poke cake.

Step 4: Top with Cool Whip

Finally:
1. Spread 8 ounces of Cool Whip evenly over the vanilla pudding layer.
2. Return the completed Strawberry Jello Poke Cake to the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy each bite of this delightful Strawberry Jello Poke Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

Serving your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake can elevate its appeal and make it even more enjoyable for your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to consider.

Individual Servings

• Use small cups or jars to serve individual portions. This not only looks appealing but also makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Garnish each slice with fresh strawberries or raspberries. This adds a burst of color and enhances the fruity flavor of the cake.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cake can add a rich contrast that many will love. It’s an unexpected twist that complements the sweetness.

Served with Ice Cream

• Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The cold ice cream balances the sweetness and adds creamy texture.

Layered in a Trifle

• For an impressive presentation, layer pieces of the poke cake in a trifle dish with whipped cream and extra strawberries. This is perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.

• Poke Holes Evenly: When poking holes in the cake, do so evenly across the surface. This helps the Jell-O soak into the cake consistently, enhancing flavor throughout.

• Chill Thoroughly: Allow the cake to chill for at least 3-4 hours after adding the Jell-O. This gives it time to absorb all the liquid properly without becoming mushy.

• Opt for Sugar-Free Options: Using sugar-free Jell-O and pudding mix can make this dessert lighter while still being delicious. It’s a great choice for those watching their sugar intake.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to try different flavors of Jell-O or pudding. Mixing strawberry with lemon or lime can create exciting new taste experiences!

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

While Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is delightful on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy yet indulgent treat.
3. Grilled Peaches: The warmth of grilled peaches adds a lovely caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cool poke cake.
4. Chocolate Mousse: A light chocolate mousse serves as an elegant counterpart, providing richness without overwhelming sweetness.
5. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet offers a nice contrast to the sweet flavors of the cake.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: For those who prefer something crunchy, nutty granola bars provide texture and heartiness alongside dessert.
7. Mini Cheesecakes: If you’re feeling adventurous, mini cheesecakes can create an exciting dessert table when served alongside your poke cake.
8. Coffee or Tea: Don’t forget beverages! A cup of coffee or tea can round out your dessert experience beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Not letting the cake cool: Failing to let the cake cool completely can prevent the Jell-O from absorbing properly. Always allow your cake to cool in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours after poking holes.

• Using too much or too little water: Adjusting the water in the Jell-O mix is crucial. Stick to the recommended 1 cup of boiling water and 1/2 cup of cold water for best results.

• Forgetting to soften pudding: Skipping the softening step for vanilla pudding can lead to a lumpy texture. Be sure to let it sit until it’s nice and smooth before spreading it on top of your cake.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing your cake batter can make it dense. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Neglecting toppings: Don’t forget about garnishing! Adding fresh strawberries or whipped cream on top can elevate your Strawberry Jello Poke Cake both visually and in flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Strawberry Jello Poke Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.

Freezing Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

• You can freeze this cake for future enjoyment.
• Wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• It should be good for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake, covered with foil, in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.

• Stovetop: If you want a warm slice, place it in a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for around 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different flavors of Jell-O for this poke cake?

Yes! You can experiment with various flavors like raspberry or lime to create unique variations of this Strawberry Jello Poke Cake.

How long does Strawberry Jello Poke Cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dessert stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Can I make Strawberry Jello Poke Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making ahead. Just prepare it a day prior and keep it refrigerated until serving.

What should I serve with my Strawberry Jello Poke Cake?

Consider pairing this delicious poke cake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

You can modify this recipe by using gluten-free cake mix or sugar-free options for those who need dietary adjustments while enjoying Strawberry Jello Poke Cake.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Its lightness and refreshing flavors make it an ideal dessert for gatherings or family dinners. Feel free to customize it with different toppings or fruit based on your preferences—enjoy every bite!

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Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful Strawberry Jello Poke Cake, a refreshing dessert that harmoniously blends the classic flavors of strawberry and vanilla. This light and fluffy cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings. The secret to its moistness lies in soaking the cake with luscious strawberry Jell-O, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Topped with creamy vanilla pudding and Cool Whip, this dessert not only looks stunning but tastes amazing too. Impress your guests or treat yourself to this easy-to-make poke cake that’s sure to bring smiles all around.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
• 1 box (3 oz) sugar-free strawberry Jell-O
• 1 box (1 oz) instant sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
• 8 oz Cool Whip
• 1 ½ cups water
• 2 cups milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven and prepare the white cake mix as per package instructions. Bake in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Allow the cake to cool slightly before poking holes across the top using a wooden spoon handle.
3. In a mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar-free strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water; add ½ cup cold water.
4. Pour the Jell-O mixture over the cooled cake, filling all holes.
5. In another bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding with 2 cups of milk until thickened; spread over the cake.
6. Top with Cool Whip and chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg