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Easy Fluffy Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe Perfect for Summer Desserts

strawberry jello poke cake - featured image

A quick and easy fluffy yellow cake soaked with strawberry jello and topped with whipped topping, perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz / 432 g)
  • 1 cup water (240 ml)
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 ml)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 package strawberry flavored gelatin (Jello) (3 oz / 85 g)
  • 1 cup boiling water (240 ml)
  • 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
  • Fresh strawberries, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 cup water, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and slightly thickened. If mixing by hand, whisk vigorously to avoid lumps.
  3. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. While the cake bakes, dissolve the strawberry jello powder in 1 cup boiling water. Stir for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Set aside to cool slightly but do not let it set.
  5. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Using a toothpick or skewer, poke holes all over the surface about every inch apart.
  6. Pour the slightly cooled jello evenly over the entire cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the jello set.
  7. Before serving, spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries if desired.
  8. Slice and enjoy.

Notes

Do not overbake the cake to keep it moist for soaking the jello. Let the jello cool before pouring to avoid melting the cake. Poke holes evenly and deep enough to allow jello to soak fully. Chill the cake for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor. For dairy-free, use coconut whipped cream. For gluten-free, use gluten-free yellow cake mix and confirm gelatin is gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry jello poke cake, summer dessert, easy cake recipe, fluffy cake, poke cake, quick dessert, whipped topping