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Flavorful Red White and Blue Strawberry Poke Cake

red white and blue strawberry poke cake - featured image

A vibrant and festive poke cake bursting with fresh strawberries, creamy whipped topping, and patriotic colors, perfect for celebrations like the Fourth of July.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box white cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
  • Ingredients called for on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
  • 1 package (3 oz) strawberry flavored gelatin (Jell-O brand recommended)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 1/2 cups cold water
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Fresh blueberries for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  2. Prepare the cake batter by following the instructions on the cake mix box—usually combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Beat until smooth but don’t overmix.
  3. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
  4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Check at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  5. While the cake bakes, dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Add 1 1/2 cups cold water and refrigerate until slightly thickened but not set, about 20 minutes.
  6. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
  7. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes evenly all over the top of the cake.
  8. Pour the slightly thickened strawberry gelatin evenly over the cake. Gently press fresh strawberry slices into the holes and across the top.
  9. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the gelatin fully soak in.
  10. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  11. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
  12. Garnish with fresh blueberries arranged in clusters or a pattern to complete the red, white, and blue theme.
  13. Serve chilled. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Notes

Poke holes evenly about every inch to ensure the strawberry gelatin soaks well. Chill the cake for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor. Use cold utensils and cream for whipping to achieve better peaks. If gelatin sets too quickly, gently warm it to regain pourable consistency. Measure gelatin liquid carefully to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry poke cake, patriotic dessert, red white and blue cake, easy poke cake, Fourth of July dessert, celebration cake, summer dessert