Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a moist vanilla cake filled with strawberry Jello and topped with fluffy whipped topping and fresh strawberries. This easy dessert starts with a boxed cake mix and is perfect for summer parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
This is one of those old-fashioned desserts that has been around my kitchen for years. I first shared it back in 2016, and it’s still such an easy cake to put together when I need something sweet for a crowd.
Why I love This Recipe
About The Ingredients
- Vanilla Cake Mix: The easy base for this soft, moist cake. Prepare according to the package directions.
- Cool Whip: One 16-ounce tub adds a light, fluffy topping.
- Fresh Strawberries: One pint of sliced strawberries adds fresh flavor and color.
- Strawberry Jello: Soaks into the cake through the holes, adding strawberry flavor throughout.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
How to Make Strawberry Jello Poke Cake
Bake the Cake: Prepare and bake the vanilla cake according to the package directions.
Prepare the Jello: Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add the strawberry Jello and stir until dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of cold water and remove from heat.
Poke the Cake: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake.
Add the Jello: Slowly pour the strawberry Jello mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
Chill: Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until completely cooled.
Add the Toppings: Spread Cool Whip over the cake and top with sliced fresh strawberries.
Tips I Found Helpful
- Let the cake cool slightly: A warm cake absorbs the Jello mixture without falling apart.
- Make plenty of holes: Space them evenly so the strawberry Jello spreads throughout the cake.
- Pour slowly: Give the Jello time to soak into the holes instead of pooling on top.
- Chill completely: Make sure the cake is cold before adding the Cool Whip.
- Add strawberries last: Top with fresh sliced strawberries shortly before serving for the best appearance.
Questions Readers Ask Most
Can I make Strawberry Jello Poke Cake ahead of time?
Yes! Make it the day before and keep it refrigerated. Add the fresh strawberries shortly before serving.
Do I need to let the cake cool before adding the Jello?
Let the cake cool slightly before poking the holes. It can still be warm when you pour the Jello over it.
Can I use a different Jello flavor?
Absolutely! Raspberry or cherry Jello works well with vanilla cake. You can also change the fruit topping to match.
How do I store leftover Strawberry Jello Poke Cake?
Cover the cake tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled because of the Cool Whip and fresh strawberries.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, but stabilized whipped cream works best if you’re making the cake ahead. Regular whipped cream can lose its shape over time.
More Dessert Recipes I Love
Strawberry Jello Poke Cake
Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a moist vanilla cake filled with strawberry Jello and topped with fluffy Cool Whip and fresh strawberries. An easy make-ahead dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 (16-ounce) tub Cool Whip
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 box strawberry Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
Instructions
- Prepare and bake the vanilla cake according to the package directions.
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add the strawberry Jello and stir until dissolved, about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in 1 cup of cold water and remove from heat.
- Poke holes evenly throughout the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Slowly pour the Jello mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until completely cooled.
- Spread Cool Whip over the cake and top with sliced strawberries.
Notes
Let the cake cool slightly before adding the Jello.
Refrigerate until completely chilled before spreading on the Cool Whip.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 171Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 320mgCarbohydrates: 37gFiber: 2gSugar: 20gProtein: 2g
What happens to jello if I continue to boil the mixure after Jello has been dissolve in boiling water. Does it effect set up..
O it should be fine 🙂