Absolutely! Here’s a big, detailed recipe for a delicious Strawberries & Cream Poke Cake, often called “the queen of poke cakes”, perfect for holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just a sweet summer treat. This version is decadent, nostalgic, easy to make, and deeply loved by families across generations.
🍓 Strawberries & Cream Poke Cake 🍓
The ultimate creamy, fruity, and moist dessert that will melt hearts—one bite at a time.
📜 A Little History of Poke Cakes
Poke cakes originated in the United States in the 1970s and became popular through boxed cake mixes and colorful Jell-O. The name “poke cake” comes from the technique of poking holes in the baked cake and filling them with something luscious—pudding, Jell-O, fruit puree, sweetened milk, or syrup. The result? Incredibly moist cakes infused with intense flavor. Over the decades, poke cakes have evolved into gourmet delights, like this strawberries & cream version.
❤️ Why Lovers Love It
Couples adore sharing this cake for its silky texture, romantic strawberry flavor, and the nostalgia it brings. It’s the kind of cake that feels like a hug from someone you love. Great for anniversaries, date nights, and surprise treats. Kids love it too!
🍰 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box—usually 3 egg whites, 1 cup water, 1/2 cup oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
For the Filling:
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
For the Cream Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
For the Topping:
- 1½ to 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- Optional: extra Cool Whip or whipped cream for garnish
- Optional: crushed graham crackers or shortbread crumbles
🧁 Instructions
1. Bake the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare white cake mix according to package directions. Stir in vanilla extract if using.
- Pour into the dish and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 15 minutes.
2. Poke the Cake
- Using a fork or handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake, spaced about 1 inch apart.
- Mix Jell-O with boiling water until dissolved. Stir in cold water.
- Carefully pour the liquid over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Chill in fridge for at least 2 hours.
3. Make the Cream Layer
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and beat until creamy.
- Fold in Cool Whip gently until fully combined.
4. Assemble
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled cake.
- Top with sliced strawberries in decorative patterns or scattered casually.
- Sprinkle with crushed cookies or graham crumbs if desired.
- Chill another hour before serving (for best flavor and texture).
💡 Pro Tips & Lover’s Methods
- For more intense strawberry flavor, blend some strawberries into the Jell-O before pouring.
- For a romantic twist, drizzle with melted white chocolate or serve with champagne.
- Mini poke cake jars: Layer cake cubes, cream, and strawberries in mason jars for cute date-night desserts.
- Make it festive for Christmas by alternating strawberries with kiwi or mint leaves for red and green colors.
🧬 Formation (Science Behind It)
When the cake is poked and soaked with Jell-O, it absorbs the liquid into the sponge structure. This infusion adds flavor and moistness without making the cake soggy. The cream cheese layer balances the sweetness with tanginess, while the strawberries add freshness and a fruity burst.
🎄 Perfect for Christmas
Its red-and-white color scheme, make-ahead ease, and crowd-pleasing flavor make this the ideal holiday dessert. Add a dusting of powdered sugar for a “snowy” look!
📝 Conclusion
Strawberries & Cream Poke Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of love, memory, and comfort. Whether you’re baking it for your sweetheart, your family, or just yourself (because yes, you deserve it!), this cake promises joy in every bite.
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