Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a delightful twist on a summer classic, where tender vanilla cake meets a flood of ruby-red strawberry syrup that sinks into every crumb. Imagine pressing little pockets into a warm, fluffy sponge, then drenching them in homemade strawberry compote sweetened with honey and a splash of zesty lemon juice. Crowned with clouds of whipped cream and crowned with juicy berry slices, this playful dessert invites cheerful bites and warm memories around the table. In just a few simple steps, you’ll whisk, poke, pour, and top your way to dessert bliss—making every forkful a celebration of sunshine and smiles.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
- It’s a delightful twist on a classic dessert that everyone adores.
- Each slice is bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and creamy goodness.
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for any skill level.
- This cake is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
- It’s a fun and interactive dessert that invites everyone to dig in!
Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix package. Prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan. Bake as directed on the package until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 5 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the warm cake. This will help the strawberry mixture soak in beautifully.
- In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir in the sliced strawberries until well combined.
- Pour the gelatin-strawberry mixture evenly over the warm cake. Make sure it seeps into all the holes for maximum flavor.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set perfectly.
- Once chilled, spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the top of the cake. Feel free to be creative with your spreading!
- Slice the cake and serve it chilled. Garnish with additional strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 8g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 42g |
| Sugar | 25g |
Ingredients
Gather these delightful ingredients to make your own Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake!
- 1 box white cake mix – for the cake base
- ingredients called for on cake mix box – typically eggs, oil, and water
- 1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin – for strawberry flavor
- 1 cup boiling water – to dissolve the gelatin
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries – to layer into the cake
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping – for a creamy finish
- additional strawberry slices – for garnish
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
This delightful Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a perfect treat for any occasion! With a preparation time of about 20 minutes, a cooking time of 30 minutes, and a chilling time of at least 2 hours, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your friends and family.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix package. Prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan. Bake as directed on the package until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Poke Holes
Let the cake cool for 5 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the warm cake. This will help the strawberry mixture soak in beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Gelatin
In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir in the sliced strawberries until well combined.
Step 5: Pour the Mixture
Pour the gelatin-strawberry mixture evenly over the warm cake. Make sure it seeps into all the holes for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Chill the Cake
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set perfectly.
Step 7: Add Whipped Topping
Once chilled, spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the top of the cake. Feel free to be creative with your spreading!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake and serve it chilled. Garnish with additional strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy every bite!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Extra Time | 120 minutes (Chilling time) |
| Total Time | 170 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | Chilled with fresh strawberries |
Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
- Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before poking holes for even absorption.
- Use whipped topping for a light and fluffy texture.
- Chill the cake for a few hours to enhance the flavors.
- Top with extra strawberries and whipped cream for a beautiful finish.
How to Serve this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
- Top with extra whipped cream for a fluffy finish.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.
- Pair with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea.
- Enjoy with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for extra crunch.
- Slice and serve with a side of fresh strawberries for a fruity boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:
Storing Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Leftovers
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep it in an airtight container for best freshness.
Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap tightly.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal quality.
Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- For a warm slice, use the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. How do you make a Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake?
Making a Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a delightful process! Start by baking a vanilla cake according to the package instructions. Once it’s cooled, poke holes in the cake using a fork. Prepare strawberry gelatin according to the package directions and pour it over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. After that, top the cake with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Chill it in the fridge for a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld together!
2. What ingredients do I need for a Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake?
For a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, you will need a box of vanilla cake mix, eggs, water, and oil for the cake. For the poke part, you’ll need strawberry gelatin, and for the topping, gather whipped cream and fresh strawberries. This combination creates a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
3. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry gelatin in a poke cake?
While strawberry gelatin gives that classic flavor and helps the cake stay moist, you can certainly use fresh strawberries! Simply mash or slice fresh strawberries and mix them with a bit of sugar to create a syrup. Pour this over the cake instead of the gelatin for a fresh twist. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
4. How should I store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake?
To store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. If you notice the strawberries starting to wilt, you can always add a few more fresh ones on top before serving!
Final Thoughts
There you have it, friends! Your very own Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is just a few simple steps away. This delightful dessert is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab your strawberries, whip up some cream, and enjoy every delicious bite. Happy baking!