Table of Contents
why make this recipe
This cake is quick, bright, and fun. It uses a box cake mix and one box of Strawberry Jell-O to give big flavor with little work. It cools in the fridge and is ready to serve for a party or a quiet treat. If you want more tips on strawberry cakes, see this strawberry cake guide for ideas.
introduction
Classic Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cake is soft, sweet, and full of strawberry flavor. You bake a white cake, poke holes, and pour strawberry Jell-O over it so the flavor soaks in. The result is moist cake with bright pink jelly in each bite. It is simple to make and loved by kids and adults.
how to make Classic Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cake
Make the cake as the box says. Let it cool a bit, then poke holes with a fork so the Jell-O sinks in. You can follow the clear steps below and add whipped cream or fruit on top if you like. For a different strawberry dessert idea, you can also try a recipe for strawberry shortcake cookies.
Ingredients :
1 box White Cake Mix, eggs (as required by cake mix instructions), oil (as required by cake mix instructions), 1 box (3oz) Strawberry Jell-O, 1 cup Boiling Water, 1/2 cup Cold Water
Directions :
- Preheat your oven and prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Bake the cake in a suitable pan according to the instructions.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the Strawberry Jell-O in boiling water, then add cold water.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the slightly cooled cake.
- Pour the Jell-O mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for several hours or until the Jell-O is set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
how to serve Classic Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cake
Serve the cake cold. Add a layer of whipped cream on top before serving for extra creaminess. You can also place fresh strawberries on top for color and flavor. Cut into squares and serve on plates with a fork.
how to store Classic Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cake
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator. It stays good for 3 to 4 days. Do not leave it at room temperature for long because of the Jell-O and whipped topping.
tips to make Classic Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cake
- Use a fork or a wooden spoon handle to make holes evenly.
- Let the cake cool slightly but not fully; warm cake soaks Jell-O better.
- Pour the Jell-O slowly and move the bowl to reach all spots.
- Chill at least 3 hours so the Jell-O sets well.
- For less sweetness, use less Jell-O or top with plain whipped cream.
variation (if any)
- Use sugar-free strawberry Jell-O for lower sugar.
- Try a lemon or raspberry Jell-O for a different flavor.
- Add chopped strawberries into the cooled cake before adding Jell-O for more fruit.
- Use a chocolate or yellow cake mix for a different base.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh strawberry juice instead of Jell-O?
A: Fresh juice will not set like Jell-O. The poke cake needs gelatin to hold the filling, so use Jell-O or a gelatin mix.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and keep it in the fridge. It tastes even better after a night to set.
Q: Can I use a homemade white cake instead of a box mix?
A: Yes. Any white cake that bakes in a single pan will work. Follow the same poke and pour steps.
Q: How long should I chill it before serving?
A: Chill for at least 3 hours. Overnight is best for firm Jell-O and great flavor.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Freezing is not recommended because Jell-O changes texture after thawing. Store in the fridge instead.

Classic Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven and prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Bake the cake in a suitable pan according to the instructions.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the Strawberry Jell-O in boiling water, then add cold water.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the slightly cooled cake.
- Pour the Jell-O mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for several hours or until the Jell-O is set.
- Serve the cake cold, adding a layer of whipped cream on top if desired.
- You can also place fresh strawberries on top for color and flavor.
- Cut into squares and serve on plates with a fork.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
- Do not leave it at room temperature for long due to the Jell-O and whipped topping.




