Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that combines the light texture of cake with the fresh, sweet taste of strawberries and whipped cream.
It’s perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or any occasion when you want a refreshing and satisfying treat!
Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (plus ingredients to make the cake, usually water, oil, and eggs)
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (or fresh whipped cream)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Optional: Additional strawberries and whipped cream for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions (usually 350°F or 325°F for a glass pan).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake the cake for the time specified on the box (usually about 25-30 minutes). You can check with a toothpick in the center to ensure it’s done (it should come out clean).
- Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes in the pan.
- Poke the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled for a bit, use a fork to poke holes all over the cake, about 1-inch apart. Be sure to poke all the way to the bottom of the cake but not so deep that it breaks apart.
- Prepare the Jell-O:
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Add 1 cup of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir.
- Pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to fill the holes.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak in and further moisten the cake.
- Chill the Cake:
- Cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results) to allow the gelatin to set and the cake to absorb the flavors.
- Top with Whipped Topping:
- Once chilled, spread the whipped topping (or fresh whipped cream) evenly over the top of the cake.
- Add Strawberries:
- Arrange the sliced fresh strawberries on top of the whipped topping for a beautiful and delicious finish.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled. Garnish with additional whipped cream or strawberries if desired.
Optional Garnishes:
- Mint leaves for a touch of color.
- Crushed graham crackers to add some crunch and mimic the shortcake texture.
This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is creamy, fruity, and absolutely delicious. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering! Enjoy! 🍓🍰