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Print / PDFStrawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
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- Prep Time
- 20 mins
- Cook Time
- 30 mins
- chilling time
- 2 hrs
- Total Time
- 2 hrs 50 mins
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix (for the cake base)
- as directed ingredients called for on cake mix box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 package strawberry gelatin (3 oz package for strawberry flavor)
- 1 cup boiling water (to dissolve the gelatin)
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries (to layer into the cake)
- 1 tub whipped topping (8 oz for a creamy finish)
- as needed additional strawberry slices (for garnish)
Equipment
- 1 Baking pan — Greased for baking the cake
- 1 Mixing bowl — For mixing the cake batter and gelatin
- 1 Wooden spoon — For poking holes in the cake
Method
- 1
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.
- 2
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan. Bake as directed on the package until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- 3
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.
- 4
In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir in the sliced strawberries until well combined.
- 5
Pour the gelatin-strawberry mixture evenly over the warm cake. Make sure it seeps into all the holes for maximum flavor.
- 6
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set perfectly.
- 7
Once chilled, spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the top of the cake. Feel free to be creative with your spreading!
- 8
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 |
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!
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.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.
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!
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers from the kitchen — storage, swaps, and common sticking points for this recipe.
How do you make a Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake?
What ingredients do I need for a Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake?
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry gelatin in a poke cake?
How should I store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake?
Kitchen notes
Nutrition & sources
Calorie and nutrition figures on this page are estimates meant for general home-cooking guidance. Actual values vary with brands, portion size, and how the recipe is prepared.
Estimates draw on typical ingredient data from public nutrition databases such as the USDA FoodData Central. They are not a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice.
For how recipes are tested and when pages are updated, see How we test recipes. Full legal context lives in our disclaimers and affiliate disclosure.






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