Indulge your taste buds in a delightful experience with our Strawberry Vanilla Poke Cake! This luscious dessert combines the lightness of vanilla cake with the vibrant flavor of strawberries, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or celebrating a birthday, this poke cake is sure to steal the show. With its simple preparation and stunning presentation, you'll want to make this recipe your go-to for impressing friends and family. Ready to uncover the secret to this irresistible dessert? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1 package strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 container whipped topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn't stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix with water according to the package directions. Mix with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to ensure an even surface.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. While still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the cake.
- Prepare the strawberry gelatin according to the package instructions, using slightly less water to create a more concentrated flavor.
- Slowly pour the warm gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. This will create pockets of strawberry flavor throughout the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the gelatin to set and the cake to cool completely.
- Once chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake's surface, covering it completely.
- Garnish the top of the cake with fresh sliced strawberries, arranging them in an attractive pattern.
- Refrigerate the cake for an additional 30 minutes before serving to allow the topping to set.
- Slice and serve chilled. Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, opt for ripe, fresh strawberries. They’ll enhance the overall taste of the cake and make it look even more appealing.
- Poke Holes Evenly: When poking holes in the cake, be sure to space them evenly. This allows the strawberry gelatin to seep in uniformly, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Chill Thoroughly: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the cake for at least 2 hours allows the gelatin to set properly, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake.
- Customize the Topping: Feel free to get creative with the whipped topping! Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even some mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
- Serve Cold: This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so make sure to keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It’s the perfect cool treat on a warm day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 185kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
