Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe for Easy Entertaining

Last Updated on February 27, 2026 by Souhail

Hey friends! Welcome back to my kitchen. Life in New York City moves fast, so I’m always looking for desserts that feel special without being fussy. That is why I love this strawberry poke cake. The first time I made it for a Brooklyn rooftop gathering, the skyline was glowing and everyone asked for seconds before I even got a slice.

This recipe fits perfectly into everyday life whether you need a quick weeknight meal solution for a sweet tooth or a festive dish for a birthday party. It is comforting, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying. The flavor profile is a beautiful balance of sweet vanilla sponge soaked in bright strawberry gelatin and topped with a cloud of fluffy whipped cream.

What makes this recipe so special is the texture. The holes poked into the warm cake allow the fruity syrup to seep deep into every crumb, ensuring each bite is moist and bursting with berry flavor. It is a crowd pleaser that never fails to impress, even though it starts with a simple box mix hack that we will keep our little secret.

Why You Will Absolutely Love This Strawberry Poke Cake

Let me tell you why this dessert has earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation. First, it is incredibly forgiving. Even if you are a beginner baker, you cannot mess this up. Second, the make ahead factor is a total lifesaver for busy New Yorkers like me. You can bake it the night before, and it actually tastes better after the flavors have time to meld. Third, it is endlessly customizable. You can swap the strawberry gelatin for raspberry or cherry, or even use sugar free options to make it a bit lighter.

For my friends who are watching their sugar intake, you can easily use a gluten free cake mix and sugar free Jello to make this treat accessible to everyone. If you love fruity desserts, you might also want to check out this no-bake strawberry cheesecake for another easy, no-oven option.

My Secret Tricks for the Perfect Poke Cake Every Time

Okay, let me share the insider secrets that took my poke cake game from good to absolutely show stopping. First, poke the holes while the cake is still warm but not hot. If it is too hot, the gelatin will just evaporate. If it is too cold, it will not soak in properly. I use the handle of a wooden spoon because it creates the perfect sized wells. Second, pour the gelatin mixture slowly and evenly. I like to go in a grid pattern to ensure every section gets its fruity soak.

Third, chill the cake for at least four hours, but honestly, overnight is where the magic happens. The cake becomes incredibly moist and the flavors deepen beautifully. If you are looking for more frosting inspiration, this frosting for sugar cookies guide has some great techniques you can adapt for your cake topping.

Fun Twists on the Classic Strawberry Poke Cake

While the original recipe is a winner, I love playing around with flavors to keep things exciting in the kitchen. Here are a few of my favorite variations that you simply have to try.

• Tropical Strawberry Coconut: Swap the water in your gelatin mixture for pineapple juice and fold shredded coconut into your whipped topping. This version transports you straight to a beach vacation. The tartness of the pineapple complements the sweet strawberries beautifully, and the coconut adds a delightful chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the soft cake.
• Chocolate Covered Strawberry: Use a chocolate cake mix as your base instead of vanilla. The rich cocoa flavor pairs surprisingly well with the bright strawberry gelatin, mimicking the classic chocolate covered strawberry treat. Top with chocolate whipped cream and fresh berry garnish for an extra indulgent dessert that feels fancy enough for date night.
• Protein Packed Version: For a healthier spin, use a protein cake mix and fold Greek yogurt into your whipped topping. This adds a creamy tang and boosts the protein content, making it a better option for post-workout treats or breakfast dessert. If you enjoy high-protein breakfasts, you will definitely want to try these cottage cheese pancakes for another delicious way to start your day.
• Berry Medley: Instead of just strawberry gelatin, use a mix of raspberry and strawberry. Top with a combination of fresh blueberries, raspberries, and sliced strawberries for a gorgeous, antioxidant rich dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is stunning all on its own, but a few simple touches can elevate it to party worthy status. I love serving slices on pastel plates with a mint leaf garnish for a pop of fresh color.

For brunch gatherings, pair a small slice with a savory dish like this hearty cabbage sausage soup to balance the sweetness. A dollop of extra whipped cream and a few fresh strawberry slices on top make each serving look bakery fresh. If you are hosting a spring celebration, arrange the slices on a tiered stand with other light desserts for a beautiful dessert table.

Keeping Your Cake Fresh: Storage and Reheating

Store your strawberry poke cake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cold environment keeps the whipped topping stable and the cake moist. I do not recommend freezing this particular dessert because the whipped topping can become grainy when thawed. If you need to transport it, keep it in a chilled cooler and add the final garnish right before serving.

Beyond Dessert: Creative Ways to Enjoy This Recipe

Do not limit this cake to just dessert plates. I have served bite sized cubes at bridal showers by cutting the cake into small squares and topping each with a single fresh strawberry. For a fun breakfast treat, try a small slice alongside your morning coffee. It also makes an excellent potluck contribution because it travels well and serves a crowd.

You can even layer crumbled poke cake with whipped cream and fresh berries in parfait glasses for an elegant, individual serving option that feels extra special.

How Do You Make It

Strawberry Poke Cake

Recipe by Fatima Zahrae

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

285

kcal

Strawberry Poke Cake: This moist, fruity strawberry poke cake is soaked in sweet gelatin and topped with fluffy whipped cream. It is the ultimate easy dessert for parties, potlucks, or a spontaneous sweet treat at home.

Cook Mode

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Ingredients

• 1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)

• 1 box strawberry gelatin, 3 ounces

• 1 cup boiling water

• 1 cup cold water

• 1 container whipped topping, 8 ounces, thawed

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

• Bake the cake according to the package directions in a 9×13 inch baking pan.
• Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes until it is still warm but not hot to the touch.
• While the cake is cooling, whisk together the strawberry gelatin and boiling water in a medium bowl until the powder is completely dissolved.
• Stir in the cold water and set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
• Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar round object to poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake.
• Space the holes about 1 inch apart to ensure even distribution of the gelatin.
• Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, aiming to fill the holes and let the liquid soak into the cake.
• Use a spatula to gently spread any excess liquid to ensure the entire cake is evenly coated.
• Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the gelatin to fully set and the flavors to meld together.
• In a small bowl, fold the vanilla extract into the thawed whipped topping until smooth.
• Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
• Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries just before serving.
• Slice and enjoy your delicious, moist strawberry poke cake.

Notes

• For best results, use the cake mix ingredients specified on the box (usually eggs, oil, and water) for proper texture.
• If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of gelatin mixture poured over the cake by about 25 percent.
• Fresh strawberries are best added right before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• This cake can be made up to two days in advance, making it perfect for party planning.
• For a dairy free version, use a dairy free cake mix and coconut whipped topping.
• If your whipped topping seems too soft, chill it for 15 minutes before spreading for easier application

Nutrition Facts

• Total number of serves: 12
• Calories: 285kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0.45mg
• Sodium: 0.290mg
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugar: 28g
• Protein: 3g

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FAQS

A Little Story About This Cake

This recipe reminds me of summer evenings on my aunt’s porch in upstate New York. She would make this cake for every family gathering, and the sight of that bright pink dessert sitting on her vintage cake stand instantly signaled celebration.

Now, whenever I make it in my city kitchen, I feel that same sense of joy and togetherness. It is more than just a dessert. It is a little piece of happy memory that I get to share with everyone I love.

I Would Love to See Your Creation

Please try this strawberry poke cake and let me know how it turns out. Tag me on social media or leave a comment below with your photos. I love seeing how you make this recipe your own, whether you add extra berries, try a fun variation, or serve it at your next gathering. Your feedback helps our little food community grow, and I read every single comment. Happy baking, friends.

Quick Shopping List for Strawberry Poke Cake

• White or yellow cake mix
• Eggs, oil, water (as called for on cake mix box)
• Strawberry gelatin, 3 ounce box
• Whipped topping, 8 ounce container
• Fresh strawberries
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: mint leaves for garnish

A Note on Enjoying This Treat

This strawberry poke cake is all about joyful indulgence. The bright fruit flavor and light, fluffy texture make it a happier choice than many heavy desserts. Strawberries offer vitamin C and antioxidants, and you can easily lighten the recipe by using sugar free gelatin and light whipped topping. It is a dessert that brings people together, and sometimes, that connection is the best ingredient of all.

Let’s Wrap This Up

I truly hope you give this strawberry poke cake a try. It is the kind of recipe that brings a little sweetness to busy days and makes gatherings feel extra special. If you enjoyed this fruity dessert, you might also love exploring my lemon blueberry sourdough bread for a tangy breakfast treat.

Remember, baking is about having fun and sharing love. So grab your mixing bowl, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s make something delicious together. I cannot wait to hear how your cake turns out. Happy baking, New York.