Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Description:
This strawberry shortcake poke cake is a light, moist dessert made with fluffy vanilla cake, sweet strawberry filling soaked into every bite, and a creamy whipped topping. It’s easy to prepare, refreshing, and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you want a classic strawberry shortcake flavor in cake form.
Ingredients
Cake
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1 box vanilla or white cake mix
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Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (eggs, oil, water)
Strawberry layer
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1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
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1 cup boiling water
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½ cup cold water
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1 cup strawberry pie filling or crushed strawberries
Topping
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1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
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1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions
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Preheat oven according to cake mix instructions. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Prepare and bake the cake as directed on the box. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top using the handle of a wooden spoon.
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In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir in cold water and strawberry pie filling or crushed strawberries.
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Slowly pour the strawberry mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
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Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake.
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Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries before serving.
Tips and Variations
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For extra flavor, add a thin layer of vanilla pudding before the whipped topping.
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Substitute fresh mashed strawberries mixed with a little sugar if you prefer no gelatin.
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This cake is best served cold and can be made a day ahead.