Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet show-stopping dessert, this Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe is exactly what you need.

Bursting with fruity flavor, this retro-inspired treat combines a soft vanilla cake, sweet strawberry gelatin, and a fluffy whipped topping for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re making it for a summer picnic, a birthday party, or just a weeknight indulgence, this poke cake is guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Best of all, it’s easy to make with just a few ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen.

What Is a Poke Cake?

A poke cake gets its name from the process of poking holes into a baked cake and filling them with a sweet mixture like gelatin, pudding, or sauce.

The filling soaks into the cake, making it extra moist, flavorful, and colorful inside.

For this version, we’re using strawberry gelatin to create beautiful pink streaks and a fresh burst of fruity flavor.

Read More: Salted Caramel Apple Snickers Cake

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Poke Cake

• Easy and beginner-friendly – Made with cake mix and Jell-O, it’s practically foolproof.

• Moist and flavorful – Every bite is filled with sweet strawberry goodness.

• Make-ahead dessert – It tastes even better when chilled overnight.

• Perfect for parties – Colorful, fun, and always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)

• 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)

• 1 cup boiling water

• ½ cup cold water

• 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bake the cake: Prepare the cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake and let it cool for about 15 minutes.

Poke holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the top of the cake.

Make the gelatin: Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold water.

Pour over cake: Carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.

Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors set.

Top and garnish: Spread whipped topping over the chilled cake and sprinkle with fresh strawberries.

Serve: Slice and enjoy.

Also Check: Homemade Moist Banana Cake Recipe

Tips for the Best Strawberry Poke Cake

• Poke deep holes so the gelatin can soak throughout the cake.

• Use a white or vanilla cake for the prettiest contrast with the strawberry filling.

• Chill overnight if possible—the flavor gets better with time.

• Swap flavors: Try raspberry, cherry, or lemon gelatin for a twist.

Serving Ideas

This cake is refreshing on its own but pairs beautifully with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream

• Fresh strawberry slices and mint leaves

• A drizzle of chocolate or strawberry sauce

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: You can freeze the cake (without whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and frost before serving.

Read More: Ice Cream Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe is a classic for good reason. It’s light, refreshing, and irresistibly delicious, with a fun surprise of strawberry flavor in every bite.

Perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or anytime you’re craving a nostalgic dessert, this poke cake will quickly become a family favorite.

Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Chill Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 box white cake mix plus ingredients listed on box
• 1 box 3 oz strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water
• 1 tub 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 cup fresh strawberries diced (for garnish)

Method

 

1. Prepare the cake mix according to package directions in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake and let cool for 15 minutes.
2. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly over the cake.
3. Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold water.
4. Pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
6. Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake.
7. Garnish with fresh strawberries, slice, and serve.

Notes

• For the prettiest look, use a white or vanilla cake base.
• Try raspberry or cherry gelatin for fun flavor variations.
• Best served chilled—overnight resting deepens the flavor.