Get ready to transform an ordinary yellow cake into a spectacular strawberry sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds! This Easy Strawberry Poke Cake is not just a dessert—it's a culinary adventure that combines the classic comfort of homemade cake with a burst of fruity, vibrant flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings, family celebrations, or when you simply need a slice of pure joy, this recipe promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 container whipped topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 cup of water, vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the strawberry gelatin by dissolving the gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved and set aside to cool slightly.
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the warm cake.
- Slowly pour the prepared strawberry gelatin over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to help distribute the gelatin evenly if needed.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2-3 hours to allow the gelatin to set and the cake to cool completely.
- Before serving, spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake using a spatula.
- Garnish the top of the cake with freshly sliced strawberries, arranging them in an attractive pattern.
- Cut into 12 equal squares and serve chilled. Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Ensure your cake is still warm when poking holes to help the gelatin absorb more effectively.
- Use a wooden spoon handle or the back of a fork to create evenly distributed holes.
- For extra flavor intensity, use fresh, ripe strawberries at peak season.
- Let the cake chill completely to allow gelatin to set and flavors to meld.
- For a more decorative touch, pipe the whipped topping instead of spreading it flat.
- If you want a more intense strawberry flavor, add a few drops of strawberry extract to the gelatin mixture.
- Room temperature ingredients help create a smoother cake batter.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
