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Jello Poke Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 20 reviews

This Jello Poke Cake is a delightful and colorful dessert featuring a moist white cake infused with flavorful strawberry Jell-O. The cake is baked, poked to create holes, and then soaked with prepared Jell-O, which sets into the cake for a juicy and vibrant finish. Topped with light whipped topping, this dessert is perfect for family gatherings and celebrations, offering cheerful flavors and an appealing texture contrast.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Cake

  • 1 (15.25-ounce) box white cake mix, plus any ingredients listed on box

Jell-O

  • 1 (3-ounce) box strawberry Jell-O (or raspberry or cherry)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water

Topping

  • 1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (or 2 cups whipped cream)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cake: Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions and bake in a 9-x-13-inch baking dish. Once baked, allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes.
  2. Poke Holes: Using a fork, poke holes evenly spaced about ½ to 1 inch apart across the entire surface of the warm cake. These holes will allow the Jell-O to seep into the cake.
  3. Make Jell-O: Dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Then add 1 cup of cold water to the mixture and stir well.
  4. Pour Jell-O Over Cake: Gradually spoon the prepared Jell-O evenly over the cake, letting it absorb into the holes fully. This infuses the cake with vibrant flavor and moisture.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for 3 to 4 hours to allow the Jell-O to set completely within the cake.
  6. Add Topping: Just before serving, spread the whipped topping or whipped cream evenly over the chilled Jello poke cake for a creamy finish.

Notes

  • White cake pairs well with all flavors of Jell-O, so feel free to experiment with different flavors like raspberry or cherry.
  • Only use 1 cup boiling water and 1 cup cold water when preparing the Jell-O to ensure proper setting.
  • Plan ahead as the cake requires 3-4 hours chilling time for the Jell-O to set nicely.
  • You can use a homemade white cake, a box mix, or even a plain store-bought white cake. Just poke holes, add Jell-O, and chill.
  • For cupcakes, use foil liners and prepare cupcakes following the box directions. After cooling, poke holes with a fork or skewer, drizzle Jell-O into the holes, then chill.
  • Store leftovers tightly covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or wrap with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Because of the Jell-O, this cake must be refrigerated and can be made up to 3 days in advance, covered tightly.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian