Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
If you love the nostalgic charm of classic strawberry shortcake but want a twist that’s easy to make and packed with juicy, sweet flavor, then this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe is going to become your new go-to dessert. Imagine a moist, tender white cake infused with vibrant strawberry Jell-O, speckled with fresh strawberries, and topped with a cloud-like whipped topping and a satisfying crunch from crushed cookies. It’s a bright and refreshing treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you need a burst of sweetness that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it stands out as a beloved twist on a traditional favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe means gathering a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each bring their own delightful touch to the dessert. From the sturdy, tender cake base to the luscious strawberry infusion and the creamy topping, every component works together to create layers of flavor and texture you’ll adore.
- White cake mix: Serves as the soft and fluffy foundation, ensuring quick and consistent results with minimal fuss.
- Strawberry Jell-O (3 oz): Adds that vibrant strawberry flavor and a pretty pink color that soaks perfectly into the cake.
- Boiling water (1 cup): Needed to dissolve the Jell-O, helping it to seep into every nook and cranny of the cake.
- Cold water (1/2 cup): Used to balance the Jell-O mixture and cool it slightly before pouring.
- Fresh strawberries (1 1/2 cups, chopped): Bring natural sweetness and a lovely texture contrast to each bite.
- Whipped topping (1 tub, 8 oz, thawed): Creates a creamy, airy layer that perfectly complements the fruit and cake.
- Crushed shortbread or vanilla wafer cookies (1 cup): Offered as a topping option to add a delicious, buttery crunch when served.
- Optional fresh strawberries for garnish: To brighten the presentation and add an extra fruity pop.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Begin by preparing the white cake mix according to the directions on the box—usually a combination of eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch pan and bake it until golden and fully cooked through. The cake’s moist texture is the key to absorbing all that strawberry goodness later, so don’t overbake. Once it’s out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes so it’s warm but not hot.
Step 2: Poke and Pour
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, gently poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake. This step is crucial—it lets the luscious strawberry Jell-O mixture seep deep into the cake, making each slice juicy and flavorful. In a mixing bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water, stir until completely dissolved, then add 1/2 cup cold water to cool it down. Pour the Jell-O carefully and evenly over the cake, allowing it to trickle into those holes. Pop the cake into the refrigerator and chill it for at least two hours so the flavors meld and set.
Step 3: Prepare and Add Fruit and Topping
While your cake chills, toss the chopped fresh strawberries with a spoonful of sugar if you like extra sweetness. Let them macerate for about 10 minutes to release their juices and soften slightly. Once the cake is firm, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface. Then, spoon the sweetened strawberries on top, dotting the entire cake with fresh, juicy bursts of strawberry flavor. For that authentic shortcake feel, sprinkle crushed shortbread or vanilla wafer cookies just before serving to keep them crisp and provide delightful contrast.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The best way to elevate this already charming dessert is with thoughtful garnishes. Fresh strawberry halves or whole berries look stunning on top and add freshness, while a light dusting of powdered sugar can make it feel extra festive. If you want a little extra texture, a few mint leaves not only brighten the look but also add a subtle herbal lift that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This poke cake shines on its own as a dessert but also pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent treat, or add a fresh fruit salad to keep things light and refreshing. For a brunch, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a sparkling rosé complements the dessert’s sweet and tangy elements perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve the cake in individual clear cups or small jars layered with extra whipped topping and strawberries for a cute poke cake parfait twist. Another idea is to turn the poke cake into cupcakes by baking the mix in liners, poking holes, and adding the gelatin and whipped topping after chilling—perfect for parties or grab-and-go desserts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the whipped topping fresh and the cake moist. It can stay good for up to 3 days, though you’ll want to add the crushed cookie topping right before serving again to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your poke cake, it’s best to do so before adding the whipped topping and fresh strawberries. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and add the toppings fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
This dessert is served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Instead, simply bring the cake to room temperature for a few minutes before serving if it’s been chilled for a long time. The cool, creamy layers really are part of what make the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe so wonderful.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade white or yellow cake works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s cooled before poking and pouring the Jell-O mixture to achieve that perfect poke cake texture.
What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
Fresh strawberries really bring the best flavor and texture, but if unavailable, frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained can be used in a pinch. Avoid canned or overly sweetened berries as they might affect the consistency.
Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?
Sure! While strawberry Jell-O complements the shortcake perfectly, you can experiment with flavors like raspberry or cherry for a twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change accordingly.
How do I prevent the crushed cookies from getting soggy?
The secret is to add the crushed cookies right before serving. Adding them too early causes them to absorb moisture and lose their crunch, so sprinkle them on top only when you’re ready to enjoy your dessert.
Is this cake suitable for kids’ parties?
Definitely! The Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe is colorful, fun, and easy to serve, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be customized with little extras like sprinkles or mini candies for a festive touch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh, and this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Its bright strawberry flavor, soft cake, and creamy toppings are a delightful combo that’s sure to bring smiles to any occasion. I hope you give this recipe a try soon — it could easily become your new favorite for sunny afternoons, holiday treats, or anytime you want a sweet reminder of happy moments shared with loved ones!
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Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring a moist white cake infused with strawberry Jell-O, fresh strawberries, and a luscious whipped topping. Perfect for summer parties or any occasion, this poke cake combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with the convenience of a simple, no-fuss recipe.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box – usually eggs, oil, and water)
Strawberry Jell-O Mixture
- 1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Fresh Strawberries
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- Optional: spoonful of sugar (to macerate strawberries)
- Optional fresh strawberries for garnish
Toppings
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup crushed shortbread or vanilla wafer cookies (optional, for sprinkle)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven and prepare the white cake according to the package instructions, baking it in a 9×13-inch pan. Once baked, allow the cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes so it’s warm but manageable.
- Poke Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, gently poke holes all over the top of the warm cake. These holes will allow the strawberry Jell-O mixture to permeate and infuse the cake with flavor.
- Prepare Jell-O Mixture: In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Then stir in 1/2 cup of cold water to cool the mixture slightly.
- Pour Jell-O Onto Cake: Carefully pour the Jell-O mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes you made. This step ensures the cake becomes moist and strawberry-flavored throughout. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours so the Jell-O can set properly within the cake.
- Macerate Strawberries: While the cake chills, mix the chopped strawberries with a spoonful of sugar in a small bowl. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices and become sweeter.
- Add Whipped Topping and Strawberries: Once the cake is chilled and set, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the surface. Then spoon the macerated strawberries over the whipped topping layer for fresh flavor and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the crushed shortbread or vanilla wafer cookies atop the cake to add a delightful crunch reminiscent of traditional shortcake. Garnish with extra fresh strawberries if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Wait to add crushed cookies until just before serving to maintain their crisp texture.
- For an extra boost of strawberry flavor, spread a thin layer of strawberry jam between the cake and whipped topping.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen if out of season; just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
- The poke method can be applied to other flavored cakes and Jell-O for creative variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
