Classic Strawberry Jell‑O Poke Cake – A Summer BBQ Favorite
Introduction
This Strawberry Jell‑O Poke Cake is the ultimate warm‑weather dessert. Light, chilled, and bursting with fruity flavor, it’s a nostalgic treat that never fails to impress. The Jell‑O seeps into the sponge, creating vibrant ripples of color and flavor in every slice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Refreshing & light: Perfect for hot summer days.
Easy to make: Uses boxed cake mix and simple steps.
Crowd‑pleaser: Serves a large group with minimal effort.
Customizable: Swap flavors for endless variations.
Ingredients
1 box white cake mix (plus box essentials: eggs, oil, water)
1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell‑O
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
1 lb fresh strawberries, chopped
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake
Prepare cake mix in a 9×13 pan according to package instructions. Cool for ~15 minutes.
Step 2: Poke
Use a fork or wooden spoon handle to poke holes across the cake (about 1‑inch apart).
Step 3: Mix Jell‑O
Dissolve Jell‑O powder in boiling water. Stir in cold water.
Step 4: Pour
Slowly drizzle Jell‑O mixture over cake, making sure it fills the holes.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) until Jell‑O sets.
Step 6: Top
Spread Cool Whip evenly over cake. Garnish with chopped strawberries.
Step 7: Serve
Slice into squares and serve ice‑cold for maximum refreshment.
Tips & Tricks
Flavor swap: Try raspberry, lime, or orange Jell‑O.
Extra fruity: Add sliced strawberries between cake and topping.
Make ahead: Chill overnight for best flavor and texture.
Storage: Keep covered in fridge up to 3 days.
Variations
Patriotic Poke Cake: Use strawberry and blueberry toppings for red, white, and blue.
Tropical Twist: Swap strawberry Jell‑O for pineapple and top with coconut flakes.
Chocolate Strawberry: Use chocolate cake mix with strawberry Jell‑O.
Mini Poke Cakes: Bake in cupcake tins for individual servings.
Serving Ideas
Serve at BBQs, picnics, or potlucks.
Pair with lemonade or iced tea.
Add sprinkles for a festive touch.
Slice into bite‑sized squares for dessert buffets.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, but stabilize it with powdered sugar so it holds up.
Q: Can I use sugar‑free Jell‑O?
Absolutely—works just as well.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
Not recommended; Jell‑O texture changes when frozen.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours+
Total Time: ~3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12–15
Final Thoughts
This Classic Strawberry Jell‑O Poke Cake is a chilled, fruity, and nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Easy to make, fun to serve, and guaranteed to disappear fast!