If you are craving a classic dessert with a fun, modern twist, this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It combines the moist, tender crumb of a yellow cake with the luscious burst of strawberry JELL-O soaked right into the layers, creating a vibrant fruity flavor in every bite. Topped off with a whipped cream and cream cheese frosting and fresh strawberries, this dessert feels like a celebration in every forkful. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and downright delightful for springtime, summer cookouts, or any time you want a slice of sweet happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors in this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe. From the fluffy yellow cake base to the bright strawberry JELL-O and creamy frosting, every component is essential to its charm and irresistible taste.
- Yellow Cake Mix: The foundation for this dessert, it ensures a moist and tender cake that’s easy to whip up from the box.
- Instant Strawberry JELL-O: Adds vibrant berry flavor and sweetens the cake while soaking in for a juicy texture; raspberry or cherry can be fun substitutions.
- Hot Water: Used to dissolve the JELL-O powder thoroughly, allowing that flavorsome syrup to soak into the cake.
- Cold Water: Helps set the JELL-O mixture to just the right consistency for soaking up beautifully without making the cake soggy.
- Cream Cheese (softened): Provides a tangy richness to the frosting that balances out the sweet strawberries perfectly.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of warmth and depth that brings the cream cheese frosting’s flavor to life.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness to the frosting while also helping it fluff up to a luscious texture.
- Whipped Cream: The light and airy base of the frosting, making it feel more like a dream than just a topping.
- Fresh Strawberries (sliced): Not only a pretty garnish but the fresh brightness that makes every bite fresh and summery.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake Your Cake
Start by following the directions on the yellow cake mix box to bake your cake. The key here is to get a beautiful golden, moist cake that will hold up well as you soak it with JELL-O. Once finished baking, let it cool for a few minutes so it’s still warm but not hot – this temperature range is perfect for the next step.
Step 2: Poke The Cake
Grab a fork and poke holes all over the top of the warm cake. These holes are critical because they allow the strawberry JELL-O to seep deep into the cake, infusing every bite with a juicy, fruity surprise. Don’t be shy—poking all over means maximum flavor absorption.
Step 3: Prepare and Pour Strawberry JELL-O
While the cake is still warm, dissolve the instant strawberry JELL-O powder into one cup of hot water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add one cup of cold water to cool it down slightly. Slowly spoon this liquid over the cake, making sure it fills the holes you poked. This step transforms your cake into a moist, flavorful masterpiece. Refrigerate the cake for at least four hours to let it set and soak up all that strawberry goodness.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
Once the cake is chilled and set, mix together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract for that lovely depth of flavor, and then gently fold in the whipped cream until the frosting is fluffy and light. This creamy topping is the perfect counterbalance to the fruity, slightly tangy layers inside the cake.
Step 5: Frost and Add Fresh Strawberries
Spread the cream cheese whipped cream frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Then, artistically arrange sliced fresh strawberries over the frosting or let guests add their own slices individually on each piece. This final touch adds a pop of color and freshness that brings everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For extra flair, sprinkle a few whole mini strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a sprig of mint on top. This brightens up the cake and adds enticing aroma and texture, making every slice look like a work of art worth sharing.
Side Dishes
This strawberry poke cake shines on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light cup of freshly brewed tea. A fresh green salad or simple fruit salad on the side can turn it into a well-rounded dessert experience that’s not overwhelming.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into smaller, bite-sized squares for a party platter or layering slices with extra whipped cream and fresh berries in parfait glasses. You can even turn this recipe into cupcakes by using a cupcake tin and poking each cake before pouring the JELL-O, creating adorable individual servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays delicious for up to three days, maintaining that perfect moist texture and fresh flavors.
Freezing
Because of the creamy topping and fresh strawberries, freezing is not ideal for this cake. The texture of the whipped cream and strawberries can change when thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.
Reheating
This cake is best served chilled and does not require reheating. If you prefer a slightly softened temperature, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to maintain the delicious texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of JELL-O in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the classic strawberry version is delightful, raspberry or cherry JELL-O mixes can add unique twists that complement the cake beautifully. Just make sure to adjust toppings to match your flavor choice.
What if I don’t have instant JELL-O?
Instant JELL-O is best for this recipe because it dissolves quickly and sets well. If you only have regular JELL-O, you can try it, but be aware it may take longer to set and could make the cake more soggy if not carefully monitored.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix with similar ingredients. The rest of the recipe remains exactly the same and will still deliver that moist, fruity punch.
Is there a way to make this cake less sweet?
To tone down sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting slightly or choose a less sweet strawberry JELL-O mix. Adding a bit more cream cheese or vanilla can also help balance the flavors.
How long does the cake need to chill before serving?
For the best results, refrigerate for at least four hours to let the JELL-O soak in completely and set properly. Overnight chilling is even better if you have the time, as it intensifies the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that never fail to bring smiles and happy sighs from everyone lucky enough to taste it. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfectly showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. So next time you want to impress without stress, give this recipe a try—your friends and family will thank you!
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining a moist yellow cake with a luscious strawberry Jell-O filling and creamy cream cheese frosting topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for gatherings, this easy-to-make poke cake offers a refreshing and delicious treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 Yellow Cake Mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Jell-O Mixture
- 1 small box instant strawberry JELL-O (Raspberry or cherry can be substituted)
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup cold water
Frosting
- 1 8 oz. block cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups whipped cream (Cool Whip or similar)
Topping
- 2 pints strawberries (sliced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Follow the directions on the yellow cake mix box to bake the cake. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly until it is warm to the touch.
- Poke the Cake: Use a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. This will allow the Jell-O mixture to seep into the cake for extra flavor and moisture.
- Make and Add Jell-O: Dissolve the strawberry JELL-O powder in 1 cup of hot water, stirring until completely dissolved. Then add 1 cup of cold water and stir. Pour this liquid evenly over the cake, making sure it soaks into the holes. Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours to allow the Jell-O to set.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Gently fold in the whipped cream until combined, creating a light and fluffy frosting.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the chilled cake. Finally, top with sliced fresh strawberries, either spread across the entire surface or placed on individual slices when serving. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Choose raspberry or cherry JELL-O as alternatives to strawberry for a different flavor.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best topping taste and texture.
- The cake needs to chill for at least 4 hours to allow the Jell-O to fully set inside the cake.
- For a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping.
- This cake can be made a day ahead to save time on serving day.
