What is a strawberry poke cake made of?

A traditional strawberry poke cake recipe is made from a white or vanilla cake base, strawberry-flavored gelatin (Jello), and a whipped cream or frosting topping. After baking, holes are poked in the cake and strawberry Jello is poured in, infusing it with vibrant color and flavor.

How do you keep a poke cake from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, poke evenly spaced holes (about 1 inch apart) and don’t over-pour the Jello mixture. Let the cake cool slightly before pouring and chill for at least 4 hours before topping or slicing. These steps ensure your strawberry poke cake recipe stays moist—not mushy.

Can I make a poke cake the day before?

Yes! In fact, making your strawberry poke cake recipe the day before allows the Jello to fully set and soak into the cake. Just store it covered in the fridge and top it right before serving for the best texture and presentation.

Can you use fresh strawberries instead of Jello?

You can use fresh strawberries to make a homemade strawberry syrup or puree, which can be poured over the cake as an alternative to Jello. However, for that classic texture and color in the strawberry poke cake recipe , strawberry-flavored gelatin remains the easiest and most vibrant option.

Does poke cake need to be refrigerated?

Absolutely. Since the cake contains gelatin and often whipped topping or pudding, it must be stored in the fridge. Your strawberry poke cake recipe will stay fresh for up to 4 days when covered and chilled properly.

What is the best topping for strawberry poke cake?

Cool Whip is the classic go-to, but cream cheese frosting, strawberry mousse, or whipped mascarpone all make great choices. The best topping depends on your occasion and flavor preferences, but anything light and creamy complements the fruity Jello center beautifully.

Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe – The Best 2025 Dessert Ever

Name: Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box white or vanilla cake mix; Ingredients listed on the cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water); 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jello); 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup cold water; 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip); Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)

Description

This strawberry poke cake recipe is a moist, vibrant, and easy-to-make dessert infused with strawberry gelatin and topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or a refreshing summer treat.

Ingredients

Scale

1 box white or vanilla cake mix
Ingredients listed on the cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water)
1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jello)
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (or as directed on cake mix box).
Prepare the cake mix as directed and bake in a 9×13-inch pan.
Allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes.
Use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes about 1 inch apart across the cake.
In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jello in 1 cup boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
Add 1 cup of cold water to the Jello mixture and stir well.
Pour the Jello evenly over the cake, making sure to cover all holes.
Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and serve chilled.

Notes

For extra richness, add a layer of strawberry puree or pudding between the cake and whipped topping.
Use a cream cheese whipped topping for a cheesecake twist.
Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 4 days.
Make ahead by preparing the cake a day before and adding toppings before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: strawberry poke cake recipe, easy poke cake, strawberry dessert, summer cake, Jello cake, moist cake recipe