Skip to content 
Summer desserts should be both impressive and achievable, especially when you’re hosting gatherings or simply want to treat your family to something special. This Strawberry Poke Cake delivers exactly that combination – a moist, delicious dessert full of strawberry goodness that looks like you spent hours baking but actually comes together with surprising simplicity.
It’s the perfect dessert for spring and summer gatherings when you want all the flavors of classic strawberry treats in one show-stopping cake.
Jump To
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Poke Cake
This easy strawberry dessert delivers incredible visual appeal with layers of vibrant strawberry gelatin dessert soaking through tender white cake, topped with fluffy whipped topping frosting that creates the most satisfying bite. The chilled refrigerator cake texture makes it perfect for warm weather entertaining, and the moist jello cake texture ensures every slice is perfectly tender and flavorful. It’s ideal for layered strawberry dessert occasions because it looks elegant but uses simple techniques that anyone can master. These definitely rank among the best cake with jello options that work beautifully as jello poke cake recipe variations and hello poke cake presentations that always impress guests.
Ingredients for Strawberry Poke Cake
Getting your ingredients ready for this strawberry poke cake recipe feels exciting because you know you’re about to create something that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
What You’ll Need
For the White Cake Mix Recipe:
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box: eggs, oil, water)
- OR make from scratch using your favorite white cake recipe
For the Strawberry Jello Poke:
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jello)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
For the Topping:
- 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Additional fresh strawberries topping for garnish
Optional Enhancements:
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (for extra richness)
- 1 box instant strawberry pudding mix (for pudding variation)
Why These Ingredients Matter
The magic of this strawberry poke cake with fresh strawberries lies in the contrast between the tender cake and the bright, fruity gelatin that soaks into every pore. Using a quality white cake mix creates the perfect neutral base that absorbs the strawberry flavor beautifully. The combination of boiling and cold water for the gelatin ensures it sets properly while still being liquid enough to penetrate the cake completely, similar to the layering techniques I use in my pineapple cloud cake starbucks copycat.
Instructions for Making Strawberry Poke Cake
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare and bake white cake according to package directions in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Let cool completely in the pan – this is crucial for the next step.
Step 2: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart. Make holes go about halfway through the cake.
Step 3: In a bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add 1/2 cup cold water and mix well.
Step 4: Slowly pour the liquid gelatin over the entire cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake, covering completely.
Step 6: Arrange fresh strawberry slices decoratively on top. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 7: Cut into squares and serve chilled – this cake is best enjoyed cold!
Hint: Make sure your cake is completely cool before poking holes, or the gelatin will just sit on top instead of soaking through for that perfect jello sheet cake effect!
Top Tip
The secret to perfect strawberry poke cake success is timing and patience. Let the cake cool completely before poking holes – warm cake will cause the gelatin to evaporate instead of absorbing. Poke holes systematically in rows to ensure even distribution, and pour the gelatin mixture slowly so it has time to soak in rather than pooling on top.
For the most authentic pioneer woman strawberry poke cake experience, chill the cake overnight before adding toppings – this allows the flavors to meld completely and creates that signature moist texture, just like the chilling techniques I use in my honeycomb cheesecake cake.
My Poke Cake Discovery
This dessert entered my life during a particularly hot summer when I needed something impressive for a family reunion but didn’t want to turn on the oven for hours. I’d heard about poke cakes but had never attempted one when my cousin mentioned how her grandmother made them for every summer gathering. Grandma overheard our conversation and said, “Jazzy, sometimes the smartest desserts are the ones that get better while you rest.”
My first attempt was a learning experience – I didn’t poke enough holes and the gelatin just sat on top in a sad, unappetizing layer. But Grandma patiently showed me the proper technique, explaining that poke cakes are all about creating pathways for flavor. “Think of it like watering a garden,” she said, “you want to reach all the roots.”
By my second try, I had mastered this easy strawberry poke cake recipe that became the star of every summer gathering. Now it’s my go-to when I want something that looks fancy but doesn’t require advanced baking skills, and I always remember Grandma’s garden wisdom every time I see that beautiful pink and white layered result.
Substitutions for Strawberry Poke Cake
If you need to adapt this jello cake recipe for different tastes or dietary preferences, here are substitutions that maintain that incredible fruity, moist character.
White cake mix – yellow cake mix works well, or try Duncan Hines strawberry poke cake using strawberry cake mix for double strawberry flavor. Homemade cake works too if you prefer from-scratch baking.
Strawberry gelatin – any fruit-flavored gelatin creates different color and flavor combinations. Cherry or raspberry make beautiful alternatives.
Whipped topping – homemade whipped cream is more luxurious, or try cream cheese frosting for tangy richness. For strawberry poke cake with pudding, mix pudding into the whipped topping.
Fresh strawberries – frozen strawberries work when fresh aren’t available, just thaw and drain well. Other berries create beautiful color variations, similar to how I adapt fruits in my vanilla french beignets toppings.
Variations on Strawberry Poke Cake
This versatile white cake with strawberry filling adapts beautifully to different flavor combinations while maintaining that signature poke cake appeal.
Strawberry poke cake with sweetened condensed milk – replace half the cold water with sweetened condensed milk for ultra-rich, creamy results.
Strawberry crunch poke cake – add a layer of crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers between the cake and whipped topping for textural contrast.
Strawberry poke cake ideas for holidays – try red and blue gelatin layers for patriotic jello poke cake recipe 4th of July celebrations.
White cake with jello variations – use different gelatin flavors and matching fruits to create rainbow effects or seasonal themes.
How to make a jello cake tropical – substitute pineapple gelatin and coconut whipped topping for a completely different flavor profile, similar to my belgian waffle recipe fruit topping variations.
Equipment for Strawberry Poke Cake
A 9×13-inch baking dish is essential – glass or metal both work well, though glass lets you see the beautiful gelatin layers from the sides. Make sure it’s at least 2 inches deep to accommodate the cake and toppings.
A wooden spoon handle or long skewer is perfect for poking holes. The holes should be uniform in size and depth for even gelatin distribution throughout the cake.
Having a large mixing bowl for the gelatin and a rubber spatula for spreading toppings makes the process much smoother and more professional-looking.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Poke Cake
Refrigeration required:
- This jello poke cake strawberry must be stored in the refrigerator at all times
- Cover tightly and consume within 3-4 days for best quality
- The cake actually improves after the first day as flavors continue to meld
Serving tips:
- Always serve chilled for the best texture and flavor experience
- Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat slices
- Perfect for easy jello cake meal prep since it holds well for several days
Transportation: This travels well to potlucks and gatherings – just keep it chilled until serving time. The sturdy texture makes it perfect for summer entertaining.
Grandma’s Secret for Strawberry Poke Cake
Grandma’s secret was adding a packet of unflavored gelatin to the strawberry gelatin mixture. “It makes everything set firmer and prevents weeping, Jazzy,” she explained while stirring it into the boiling water. “Gives you those clean, beautiful slices that don’t fall apart.” This creates a more stable texture that holds up better over multiple days and creates picture-perfect servings.
Her other trick? She always brushed the top of the cooled cake with a thin layer of melted butter before poking holes. This creates a slight barrier that prevents the gelatin from making the cake soggy while still allowing perfect absorption.
This stunning layered dessert showcases Grandma’s gelatin secret with perfect pink and white layers and fresh strawberry crown.
FAQ about Strawberry Poke Cake
What is a strawberry poke cake?
A strawberry poke cake is a dessert where holes are poked into a baked cake, then liquid gelatin is poured over to soak through the holes, creating colorful, flavorful layers. It’s topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, creating a moist, refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.
What is the best cake mix for poke cake?
White cake mix is ideal because it provides a neutral base that absorbs flavors beautifully and shows off colorful gelatin. Yellow cake also works well, while chocolate can compete with fruit flavors. The key is choosing a tender, moist cake that will absorb the liquid without falling apart.
What is the point of a poke cake?
Poke cakes infuse flavor throughout the entire cake rather than just on top, creating incredibly moist texture and vibrant taste in every bite. The technique also creates beautiful visual layers when sliced, and the chilled serving temperature makes them perfect refreshing desserts for warm weather.
What’s the best way to poke holes in a cake?
Use a wooden spoon handle, skewer, or fork to poke holes about 1/2 inch apart in a grid pattern. Make holes go halfway through the cake depth – not all the way to the bottom. Work systematically in rows to ensure even coverage for consistent flavor distribution.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Poke Cake has become our warm-weather dessert champion, proving that the most memorable treats often come from the simplest techniques. There’s something deeply satisfying about creating those perfect flavor-filled layers that make every bite burst with strawberry goodness. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people ask for the recipe and creates those sweet summer memories.
If you’re interested in exploring more fresh strawberry desserts, this Fresh Strawberry Upside-Down Cake offers another beautiful way to showcase these gorgeous berries. What’s your favorite way to use fresh strawberries in summer desserts? I’d love to hear about your own seasonal baking adventures!
Jasmine 💛
Grandma’s Nostalgic Strawberry Poke Cake
Equipment
- 1 9×13-inch baking dish Grandma always used her glass Pyrex dish so she could see the beautiful pink layers form.
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Wooden spoon or skewer The handle is the perfect size for making holes for the jello to seep into.
- 1 Rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix Plus the eggs, oil, and water called for on the box.
- 1 box strawberry gelatin 3 oz Jello is what Grandma always had in her pantry.
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 container frozen whipped topping 8 oz Thawed completely in the fridge.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries Hulled and sliced, for the topping.
Instructions
- First things first, let's get the foundation right. Prepare and bake the [white cake mix] in your 9×13-inch baking dish according to the package directions. Once it’s golden and beautiful, let it cool completely right there in the pan. Grandma always warned me, "Don't you dare rush this part, Jazzy. A warm cake and hot jello are a recipe for a soggy mess, not a masterpiece
- Now for the fun part! Take the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the cooled cake, about half an inch apart. Go about halfway through the cake. I can still hear Grandma saying, "Think of it like you're tending a garden—you have to make little paths for the flavor to reach all the roots
- In your mixing bowl, dissolve the [strawberry gelatin] completely in the [boiling water]. I love this moment—the kitchen starts to smell just like summer. Stir until there are absolutely no sugar crystals left. Then, stir in the [cold water] to bring the temperature down.
- Slowly and carefully, pour the liquid gelatin mixture over the entire surface of the cake. Take your time and make sure it flows into all those little holes you made. This is where the magic happens. Now, slide the cake into the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, or even overnight. Patience is the secret ingredient here.
- Once the cake is fully chilled and the jello is set, it's time for the final touch. Gently spread the thawed [frozen whipped topping] evenly over the cake, creating a beautiful, fluffy white cloud.
- Arrange the sliced [fresh strawberries] decoratively on top of the whipped topping. I like to make a pattern, but sometimes just scattering them looks just as lovely. Keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve. Cutting into it and seeing those perfect pink and white layers is a memory in itself.
Notes
- Grandma’s Secret for Perfect Slices: Grandma would sometimes dissolve a packet of unflavored gelatin along with the strawberry gelatin. She swore it helped the cake set up firmer, preventing any “weeping” and making each slice picture-perfect.
- For an Extra Rich Cake: Her notebook has a little scribble on the side that says, “For the Henderson family reunion, use 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk instead of the cold water.” It makes the cake incredibly rich and creamy!
- Flavor Variations: Don’t be afraid to try other gelatin flavors! Raspberry or cherry with their matching berries are just as wonderful.
- Storage: This cake must be kept in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly, and it will stay delicious for up to 4 days. In my opinion, it’s even better on the second day when the flavors have had more time to meld together.
