Strawberry Poke Cake

Name: Strawberry Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 box of vanilla cake mix; 1 cup of water; 1/3 cup of vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 cup of strawberry jello; 1 cup of boiling water; 2 cups of fresh strawberries (sliced); 1 cup of whipped cream or Cool Whip; Optional: mint leaves for garnish

Indulge in the refreshing sweetness of strawberry poke cake, a delightful dessert that combines a moist vanilla cake with luscious strawberry filling and whipped cream. Perfect for summer gatherings or family celebrations, this cake is not just visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser at your next event. Let’s dive into the details of making this scrumptious treat!

Ingredients

– 1 box of vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup of water
– 1/3 cup of vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup of strawberry jello
– 1 cup of boiling water
– 2 cups of fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1 cup of whipped cream or Cool Whip
– Optional: mint leaves for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 12. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes, plus chilling time of about 2 hours.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 8g of fat, 37g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. Note that these values are based on a standard slice size and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
4. Beat with an electric mixer for 2 minutes until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
8. Poke holes into the cake using the end of a wooden spoon.
9. In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry jello in boiling water.
10. Pour the jello evenly over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
11. Cool the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
12. Top with sliced strawberries and whipped cream before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can use a sugar-free cake mix and jello for a lighter version of the cake. Additionally, swap out fresh strawberries for other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a different flavor profile.

Serving and Pairings

Strawberry poke cake is delightful on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. Serve it alongside a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea for a perfect summer dessert.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; however, it’s best served fresh. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

– Avoid over-mixing the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
– Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding jello to prevent melting.
– Use a fork or skewer for poking holes to allow maximum jello absorption.
– Don’t skip chilling time; it enhances flavor and texture.
– When topping with whipped cream, do so just before serving to maintain freshness.

Helpful Tips

– Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
– For extra moisture, brush the cake with a simple syrup before adding jello.
– Experiment with flavored jellos for unique twists.
– Make sure to use a sharp knife when slicing to maintain clean edges.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

How long does strawberry poke cake last?

The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, it may start to lose its texture and flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for whipped cream?

You can substitute whipped cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.

Is this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Strawberry poke cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings joy to any gathering. With its moist texture and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this sweet treat and share it with loved ones for memorable moments!