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Easy Creamy Strawberry Jello Poke Cake Recipe Perfect for Summer Parties

strawberry jello poke cake - featured image

A quick and easy strawberry jello poke cake with a creamy pudding topping, perfect for summer parties and warm weather gatherings. This moist cake infused with strawberry jello and topped with a luscious creamy layer is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 15.25 oz yellow cake mix (e.g., Duncan Hines)
  • 1 cup water (240 ml) for cake batter
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 ml)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3 oz strawberry jello mix (e.g., Jell-O)
  • 1 cup boiling water (240 ml) for dissolving jello
  • 1/2 cup cold water (120 ml) for jello mixture
  • 8 oz cool whip or whipped topping (226 g)
  • 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix (96 g)
  • 1 1/2 cups milk (360 ml) for pudding
  • 1 cup fresh sliced strawberries (optional, for garnish or folding into topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the 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. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. While the cake bakes, dissolve the 3 oz strawberry jello powder in 1 cup boiling water in a medium bowl. Stir until completely dissolved. Add 1/2 cup cold water and mix well. Set aside to cool slightly but not set.
  5. Once the cake is done, poke holes about 1 inch apart all over the top using the handle of a wooden spoon or fork.
  6. Pour the cooled (but still liquid) strawberry jello evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the jello.
  7. In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 1 1/2 cups cold milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. Gently fold in the cool whip or whipped topping until smooth.
  8. Spread the creamy pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cake. Optionally, scatter fresh sliced strawberries on top. Refrigerate again for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Do not overbake the cake to keep it moist for jello absorption. Use boiling water to dissolve jello fully. Cool jello before pouring to avoid melting the cake top. Be generous but careful when poking holes. Fold whipped topping gently to keep it fluffy. Chill adequately for best flavor and texture. If jello sets too quickly, warm it briefly in the microwave before pouring.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry poke cake, jello poke cake, summer dessert, creamy cake, easy poke cake, party dessert, quick cake recipe