Peyton's Momma™

Minnesota based Family Lifestyle blog. Mother Daughter duo take on food, travel, and more.

Easy Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe | Classic Summer Dessert

Strawberry Poke Cake

Few desserts bring back summer memories quite like a Strawberry Poke Cake. Growing up, this was one of those desserts that always seemed to make an appearance at family BBQs, birthday parties, and potluck dinners. With its light, fluffy cake, sweet strawberry gelatin, creamy whipped topping, and fresh strawberries, it’s the perfect dessert for warm weather.

Here in Minnesota, strawberry season usually peaks in June and July, making this the ideal time to bake this refreshing cake. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make. Even if you’re a beginner baker, you’ll have no trouble creating this beautiful dessert.

Because the strawberry gelatin soaks into every bite, this cake actually tastes even better after it chills overnight, making it the perfect make-ahead dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Poke Cake

  • Easy beginner-friendly recipe
  • Perfect summer dessert
  • Great for potlucks and BBQs
  • Made with simple ingredients
  • Light and refreshing
  • Better when made ahead
  • Beautiful with fresh strawberries

Ingredients

To make this Strawberry Poke Cake, you’ll need:

  • 1 box white cake mix (plus the ingredients listed on the package)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 (3-ounce) box strawberry Jello
  • 1 tub Cool Whip, thawed
  • Fresh strawberries, sliced

Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Wooden spoon or drinking straw
  • Offset spatula
  • Measuring cup

How to Make Strawberry Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions.

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as directed.

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin

While the cake cools, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.

Whisk the boiling water together with the strawberry Jello until it is completely dissolved.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a drinking straw, poke holes across the top of the cake about 1 inch apart.

The holes allow the strawberry gelatin to soak throughout the cake, creating its signature flavor and color.

Step 4: Add the Jello

Slowly pour the prepared strawberry gelatin evenly over the entire cake.

Take your time so the liquid has a chance to flow into each hole.

Step 5: Chill

Allow the cake to cool completely.

Then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, although overnight is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture.

Step 6: Frost

Spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the chilled cake.

Use an offset spatula to create a smooth layer that completely covers the cake.

Step 7: Decorate

Top the cake with freshly sliced strawberries.

Arrange them in an even layer or create decorative patterns for a beautiful presentation.

Serve chilled.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Poke Cake

  • Let the cake cool slightly before adding the gelatin.
  • Pour the gelatin slowly so it fully soaks into the cake.
  • Chill overnight whenever possible for maximum flavor.
  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste.
  • Pat strawberries dry before decorating to prevent excess moisture.

Delicious Variations

Switch things up by trying:

  • Chocolate cake with cherry Jello
  • Lemon cake with raspberry Jello
  • Vanilla cake with peach gelatin
  • White cake with raspberry Jello
  • Mixed berries on top
  • White chocolate curls
  • Crushed Golden Oreos
  • Strawberry glaze drizzle

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Poke Cake is perfect for:

  • Summer BBQs
  • Family reunions
  • Birthday parties
  • Potlucks
  • Graduation parties
  • Baby showers
  • Memorial Day
  • Fourth of July celebrations
  • Picnics

Pair it with:

  • Fresh lemonade
  • Sweet iced tea
  • Coffee
  • Vanilla ice cream

Storage

Cover the cake tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Because of the whipped topping and fresh strawberries, this cake should remain refrigerated until serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Strawberry Poke Cake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s even better after chilling overnight because the strawberry gelatin has more time to soak into the cake.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely. Fresh homemade whipped cream is a delicious substitute if you prefer.

Can I freeze Strawberry Poke Cake?

You can freeze the cake before adding the whipped topping and strawberries. Once thawed, frost and decorate before serving.

What is the best cake mix to use?

White cake is the classic choice, but yellow cake or vanilla cake also work well.

This Strawberry Poke Cake is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style. With its moist cake, sweet strawberry flavor, fluffy whipped topping, and fresh berries, it’s the perfect dessert for summer celebrations and family gatherings. Easy enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough for special occasions, this refreshing cake is sure to become a favorite recipe you’ll make year after year.

Check out some of our strawberry recipes too0.

Print Pin

Strawberry Poke Cake

This easy Strawberry Poke Cake is made with white cake, strawberry Jello, Cool Whip, and fresh strawberries. A light, refreshing summer dessert that's perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword Poke Cake, Strawberry Poke Cake

Ingredients

  • 1 box White Cake Mix & what the items called for on the box
  • 1 box Strawberry Jello
  • 1 c Boiling Water
  • 1 tub Cool Whip
  • Strawberries

Instructions

  • First, mix the cake mix per the box directions and bake in a 13x9 inch pan. 
    Let the cake cool for about 20 minutes before the next step. 
    While the cake is cooling it's time to make the jello mix. 
    Take 1 C of boiling water and combine with the strawberry jello. Stir until the jello dissolved. 
    Poke holes about an inch apart in the cake. I used a straw but you can use the handle of a wooden spoon. 
    Carefully pour the jello mixture on the top of the cake, be sure to get the mixture into the holes. 
    Let the cake completely cool. Wait at least an hour before you do the next step. 
    Spread the cool whip over the top of the cake. Be sure to completely cover the cake. 
    Decorate with strawberries. 
    Enjoy!

About Shanna

Shanna started writing shortly after her daughter was born. She's written for various outlets over the years. When she's not writing about her adventures with her daughter, she's out having adventures!