Have you ever craved a dessert that's both simple to make and absolutely stunning at any gathering? A strawberry poke cake recipe is the answer you've been searching for. This classic American dessert combines moist cake, sweet strawberry gelatin, and fluffy topping to create layers of pure indulgence. Making this strawberry poke cake with whipped cream at home allows you to control ingredients, customize flavors, and serve a fresh, homemade treat that tastes infinitely better than store-bought alternatives. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort.

Ingredients List

    • 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix, plus ingredients listed on box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
    • 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
    • 1 cup boiling water
    • 1/2 cup cold water
    • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

For the Topping:

    • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 container frozen whipped topping, thawed)
    • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Optional: Additional fresh strawberries for garnish
    • Optional: Strawberry syrup for drizzling

Timing / Cooking Schedule

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Total time: 4 hours (including cooling and chilling)

Most of the total time involves hands-off refrigeration, so you can easily prepare this dessert in the morning for an evening event or make it the day before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake Base Preheat your oven according to cake mix package directions (usually 350°F). Prepare the white cake batter following box instructions and pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, typically 28-32 minutes. Let cool for 15 minutes—not completely, as a warm cake absorbs the gelatin better.

Step 2: Prepare and Pour the Gelatin While the cake bakes, dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Add 1/2 cup cold water to cool the mixture slightly. This prevents the cake from becoming too soggy while still allowing proper absorption.

Step 3: Create the "Pokes" Using the round end of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the warm cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Make sure to poke all the way to the bottom for maximum flavor penetration. This is where the magic of your strawberry poke cake recipe happens—these holes create beautiful pockets of fruity sweetness.

Step 4: Add Gelatin and Strawberries Slowly pour the prepared gelatin mixture over the entire cake surface, ensuring it seeps into every hole. Gently press sliced strawberries into some of the holes and scatter the rest across the top. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until the gelatin is completely set.

Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Topping In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes). If using store-bought whipped topping, simply thaw according to package directions. Spread the topping evenly over the chilled cake, creating a luscious layer for your strawberry poke cake with whipped cream.

Step 6: Final Touches Garnish with additional fresh strawberry slices arranged decoratively on top. For extra flair, drizzle with strawberry syrup. Refrigerate until serving time to maintain the perfect texture.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (serves 12):

    • Calories: 285
    • Protein: 3g
    • Carbohydrates: 38g
    • Fat: 14g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Vitamin C: 35% DV
    • Iron: 4% DV

Tips, Variations, or Cooking Advice

Flavor Variations: Swap strawberry gelatin for raspberry, cherry, or lemon for different flavor profiles. Mix and match fruit toppings accordingly—try blueberries with blueberry gelatin for a patriotic twist.

Dietary Modifications: Use gluten-free cake mix for celiac-friendly versions. Substitute coconut whipped cream and dairy-free cake mix for vegan adaptations. For lower sugar options, choose sugar-free gelatin and reduce powdered sugar in the topping.

Make-Ahead Strategy: This dessert actually improves with time—prepare it 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor infusion. Keep covered tightly in the refrigerator until 30 minutes before serving.

Texture Enhancement: Add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake and whipped cream for extra richness. Fold mini chocolate chips into the whipped topping for a strawberries-and-cream twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Poking Too Few Holes: Insufficient holes mean less gelatin absorption and bland cake. Aim for at least 40-50 holes across the surface for optimal flavor distribution.

Using Boiling Gelatin: Pouring boiling-hot gelatin directly onto the cake can create mushiness. Always add cold water to cool the mixture to warm (not hot) before pouring.

Skipping Refrigeration Time: Rushing the chilling process results in runny gelatin and whipped cream that won't hold its shape. Patience is key—allow the full 3-hour minimum.

Overmixing Whipped Cream: Beating cream beyond stiff peaks creates a grainy, butter-like texture. Stop immediately when peaks hold their shape firmly.

Adding Topping Too Soon: Spreading whipped cream on warm cake causes melting and separation. Ensure the cake is completely chilled before topping.

Storage / Leftovers Tips

Store your finished strawberry poke cake recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cake actually stays moist longer than traditional cakes due to the gelatin infusion. For best results, keep the strawberry poke cake with whipped cream refrigerated at all times, as both the dairy topping and gelatin require cold temperatures.

Freezing is not recommended for this dessert, as the gelatin separates and the whipped cream becomes watery upon thawing. If you must freeze, do so without the whipped topping, freeze for up to 2 months, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and add fresh whipped cream before serving.

Individual slices can be covered and stored separately for grab-and-go treats. The texture remains pleasantly moist for several days, making this an excellent make-ahead dessert for busy schedules or meal prep enthusiasts.