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Classic Strawberry Jello Poke Cake

classic strawberry jello poke cake - featured image

A nostalgic and moist poke cake infused with strawberry gelatin and topped with creamy whipped topping, perfect for any occasion and easy to make in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box white cake mix (about 15.25 oz), such as Duncan Hines
  • Ingredients called for on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
  • 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (like Jell-O)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed (such as Cool Whip)
  • Optional: Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions—usually combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Mix until smooth and pour the batter evenly into the pan.
  3. Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist.
  4. Remove the cake from the oven. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a thick skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake about 1 inch apart, going down to the bottom but without breaking the cake apart.
  5. In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in 1 cup boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved, then add 1 cup cold water and mix well.
  6. Slowly pour the gelatin over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Cool the cake to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let it set.
  7. Once chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries if desired.
  8. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

Do not overbake the cake to keep it moist for gelatin absorption. Poke holes evenly about 1 inch apart. Fully dissolve gelatin in boiling water before adding cold water. Chill cake for at least 2 hours before adding whipped topping. Use whipped topping straight from the fridge and fold gently to keep it fluffy. For dairy-free, use coconut whipped topping and dairy-free cake mix. For gluten-free, use gluten-free cake mix and gelatin alternatives like agar-agar.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry jello poke cake, poke cake, easy dessert, strawberry gelatin cake, whipped topping cake, nostalgic dessert