Welcome to the sweetest corner of the kitchen! Today we are diving into a dessert that is as fun to make as it is to eat. If you have been browsing online for a cute Strawberry Shortcake Costume lately, you might have nostalgic treats on your mind. This Easy Strawberry Poke Cake is the perfect culinary companion to that playful vibe. It is bright, cheerful, and packed with fruity flavor that everyone loves.
There is something special about desserts that bring back childhood memories. Just like putting on a whimsical Strawberry Shortcake Costume can make you feel joyful, eating a slice of this cake sparks happiness. The combination of fluffy white cake, sweet strawberry jelly, and fresh berry sauce creates a texture that is simply delightful. It is moist and cool, making it a great choice for any gathering where you want to impress your guests without spending hours baking.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You are going to fall in love with this recipe for so many reasons. First, it is incredibly simple. By using a boxed white cake mix as the base, you cut down on measuring and mixing time significantly. This means you have more time to focus on other things, like planning your party decor or searching for Strawberry Shortcake Outfit Ideas. The convenience of this recipe makes it a winner for busy home cooks who still want to serve something homemade and tasty.
Another reason this cake is fantastic is the texture. The “poke” method allows the strawberry jelly to seep deep into the cake, ensuring every single bite is moist and flavorful. You never have to worry about a dry cake with this method. It is similar to the comfort you feel when you find the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Costume that fits just right. The cool whip topping adds a light and creamy finish that balances the sweetness of the strawberry sauce perfectly.
Finally, this dessert is visually stunning. The red streaks of jelly running through the white cake look beautiful when sliced. It fits the Strawberry Shortcake Aesthetic seamlessly. Whether you are hosting a themed birthday party or a Halloween gathering where you plan to wear a Strawberry Shortcake Costume, this cake will look amazing on your dessert table. It is vibrant, festive, and screams fun.
Ingredients
To get started, you will need a few simple items from your pantry and refrigerator. This list keeps things budget friendly and accessible. If you are already out shopping for accessories for your Strawberry Shortcake Costume, you can easily grab these items at the same store.
- 1 box white cake mix (15 ounce)
- 3 large eggs (per Duncan Hines box)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (per Duncan Hines box)
- 1 cup water (per Duncan Hines box)
- 1 box plant based strawberry jelly mix (.3 ounce box)
- 8 ounces Cool Whip topping (thawed)
For the fresh Strawberry Topping, you will also need the following ingredients to really bring that Strawberry Shortcake Aesthetic to life.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
Step-By-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a dessert that is as memorable as a night out in a Strawberry Shortcake Costume. We will break this down so it is super easy to follow.
Step 1: Preheat The Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Getting the temperature right is important for a fluffy cake base.
Step 2: Make The Batter
Prepare the cake batter according to the package directions. Combine the mix, eggs, oil, and water in a bowl until smooth.
Step 3: Bake The Cake
Pour the batter into a 9 by 13 glass baking dish. Place it in the oven and bake as directed on the box.
Step 4: Cook The Strawberries
While the cake is in the oven, add the fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice to a medium pot. Cook for 5 minutes or until the strawberries soften and a sauce starts to thicken. This scent is lovely, almost as sweet as the perfume you might wear with a Strawberry Shortcake Costume.
Step 5: Set Sauce Aside
Once thickened, pour the strawberry sauce into a bowl and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 6: Cool The Cake
Remove the cake from the oven when it is done. Let it cool for 15 to 20 minutes. It needs to be warm but not scorching hot.
Step 7: Mix The Jelly
Mix the jelly mix packet with the amount of water listed on the box. Use a large measuring cup or jar for easy pouring later.
Step 8: Poke The Holes
After the cake is no longer hot, poke holes all around the cake with the end of a wooden spoon. This is the fun part that defines the recipe!
Step 9: Pour The Jelly
Pour the entire jelly mixture evenly over the top of the entire cake. Watch as the colorful liquid soaks into the holes.
Step 10: Add Strawberry Sauce
Spread the prepared strawberry sauce over the top of the entire cake. This adds a layer of texture that fits the Strawberry Shortcake Aesthetic beautifully.
Step 11: Chill The Cake
Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours to set. This waiting time is great for finishing up any details on your Strawberry Shortcake Costume.
Step 12: Add Cool Whip
Remove from the refrigerator and spread the entire cake evenly with the thawed Cool Whip topping.
Step 13: Garnish
Top with additional fresh strawberries if desired for that extra pop of color.
How To Store Leftovers
If you have any cake left after your party, you will want to keep it fresh. Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 or 5 days. Because of the cool whip and fruit, it must stay chilled. It is just like keeping your Strawberry Shortcake Costume clean and safe; you want to preserve it for as long as possible. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
Tips
Here are a few tips to make sure your cake turns out fabulous. First, you can use a yellow box cake if desired. The flavor difference is subtle but adds a nice richness. It still pairs well with the Strawberry Shortcake Aesthetic you might be aiming for.
If you are watching your sugar intake, you can use sugar free jelly mix if preferred. This is a great swap that does not sacrifice flavor. You can also omit the strawberry sauce topping if desired and just pour the jelly mix over the top of the cake and refrigerate. This makes for a lighter version, which might be nice if you are trying to fit into a snug Strawberry Shortcake Costume later that evening. Always customize it to your liking!
Conclusion
This Easy Strawberry Poke Cake is a joyful, delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are throwing a party centered around Strawberry Shortcake Outfit Ideas or just want a tasty weeknight treat, this recipe delivers. It is moist, fruity, and incredibly easy to put together. We hope you enjoy making this cake as much as you enjoy wearing your favorite Strawberry Shortcake Costume. Happy baking!
FAQ
Can I Make This Gluten Free?
Yes, you can easily swap the white cake mix for a gluten free vanilla or white cake mix. Just be sure to check that your other ingredients are certified gluten free as well.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, this cake tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This makes it perfect for prepping before a party where you will be busy with your Strawberry Shortcake Costume.
Do I Have To Use Cool Whip?
You can use homemade stabilized whipped cream if you prefer. However, Cool Whip holds up very well in the refrigerator for several days.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well for the sauce. You may not need to add as much water since they release liquid as they thaw and cook.
Strawberry Poke Cake
This Strawberry Poke Cake captures that whimsical Strawberry Shortcake aesthetic with its bright red swirls and fluffy white topping. Whether you are hosting a Strawberry Shortcake Halloween gathering or just love the character, this cake hits the spot. It is moist, cool, and bursting with sweet berry flavor in every single bite. You do not need to be a professional baker to pull this off. In fact, you might have more time to work on your Strawberry Shortcake Costume because this recipe uses simple shortcuts like boxed cake mix and prepared whipped topping. It is a stress-free dessert that looks impressive when sliced.
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare and bake the cake mix in a 9×13 inch pan according to package directions. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes.
- While the cake cools, in a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the strawberry flavored gelatin and 1 cup boiling water until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup cold water.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly over the top of the warm cake, about 1 inch apart.
- Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the poked cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is set.
- Once chilled and set, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the cake using an offset spatula.
- Garnish the top with fresh sliced strawberries just before serving. Slice and enjoy this sweet, fruity dessert.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can substitute milk for water in the cake mix or use a different flavor of gelatin.
Ensure the cake is warm when poking holes and pouring gelatin for best absorption, but not hot enough to melt the gelatin prematurely.
Chilling for the full 4 hours (or overnight) is crucial for the gelatin to set properly and infuse moisture into the cake.
Get creative with garnishes! Besides fresh strawberries, consider a sprinkle of shredded coconut, chocolate shavings, or a few mint leaves.
Nutrition
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