Growing up in Chicago, my childhood was a whirlwind of vibrant Polish-American traditions, bustling family gatherings, and the irresistible aroma of home-cooked meals. My babcia, with her flour-dusted apron and twinkling eyes, was the heart of our kitchen. She had a knack for turning simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces that brought everyone together. One of my fondest memories is of her apple cake, a recipe that has been passed down through generations. But today, I’m sharing a modern twist on a classic favorite: the strawberry poke cake. It’s a delightful blend of American comfort and a hint of Polish flair, perfect for family gatherings or a sweet treat on a cozy afternoon.

Strawberry poke cake holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its deliciously moist layers and vibrant strawberry flavor, but because it symbolizes the blend of cultures and traditions that define my family. It’s a recipe I’ve modernized over the years, adding my own creative twist while keeping the essence of the original. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this cake is a joy to make and even more delightful to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry poke cake is a dream come true for dessert lovers. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. The cake itself is fluffy and moist, thanks to the clever “poking” technique that allows the strawberry gelatin to seep into every nook and cranny. The result is a cake that’s bursting with flavor and color, sure to impress your family and friends.

Not only is this cake visually stunning, but it’s also a versatile treat that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is a perfect choice. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate fresh strawberries, which are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, into your diet.

Ingredients

1 box of white cake mix
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish

strawberry poke cake 5 refreshing recipes top

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well blended.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
While the cake is cooling, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved, then add 1/2 cup of cold water and mix well.
Once the cake has cooled slightly, use a fork or a skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.
Carefully pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours or until the gelatin is set.
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top in a decorative pattern.
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Quick and easy to prepare
Packed with flavor and nutrition
Perfect for any occasion
Customizable to your taste preferences
Budget-friendly ingredients

Expert Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure to use a cake mix that you trust and have had success with in the past. The quality of the cake mix can greatly affect the texture and flavor of the final product. When poking holes in the cake, be gentle to avoid tearing the cake apart. A skewer or the handle of a wooden spoon works well for this task.

Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding the whipped topping is crucial to prevent it from melting and becoming runny. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a layer of strawberry jam or preserves between the cake and the whipped topping.

Cooking Tools

When I make this strawberry poke cake, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the Silicone Utensils Set – 12 pcs, which is perfect for mixing the batter and spreading the whipped topping evenly. For slicing the fresh strawberries, I rely on the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife. It slices through the strawberries like butter, ensuring each slice is perfect for decorating the cake.

strawberry poke cake 5 refreshing recipes middle

Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to customize this strawberry poke cake. For a tropical twist, try using pineapple gelatin and topping the cake with fresh pineapple slices. If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and the whipped topping.

For a lighter version, use sugar-free gelatin and a reduced-fat whipped topping. You can also substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry poke cake is a showstopper on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a refreshing beverage pairing, serve it with a chilled glass of lemonade or a fruity iced tea. If you’re hosting a summer gathering, consider serving the cake alongside a fresh fruit salad for a light and colorful dessert spread.

strawberry poke cake 5 refreshing recipes end

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is actually best when made a day in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld and the gelatin to fully set. Simply prepare the cake as instructed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?

If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen strawberries instead. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them as a topping.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake may become slightly soggy over time, but it will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

Making this strawberry poke cake is like taking a sweet trip down memory lane, with each bite bringing back fond memories of family gatherings and joyful celebrations. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own, and remember to savor every moment in the kitchen with love and laughter.

👉 I hope you loved making this strawberry poke cake—it’s like a slice of summer on a plate, bursting with flavor and nostalgia. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my Blueberry Muffins, Banana Pancakes, or Chocolate Chip Cookies. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group—and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!