Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The light and fluffy white cake serve as an excellent foundation for the sweet and tangy strawberry gelatin that permeates each bite. The whipped topping adds a rich creaminess, while the fresh strawberries provide a burst of freshness. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks visually appealing, making it a crowd-pleaser at any event.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cake:

1 package (15.25 ounces) white cake mix
1¼ cups water
⅓ cup vegetable oil
3 egg whites

Jello:

1 box (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin mix
1½ cups water (divided: 1 cup boiling and ½ cup cold)

Topping:

8 ounces whipped topping (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Directions

Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions, using water, vegetable oil, and egg whites.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed on the package.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cake cool to room temperature, approximately 1 hour.
Add the Jello:
- After the cake has cooled, use a fork or the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface, spacing about 1 inch apart.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
- Place the strawberry gelatin mix in a bowl and pour the boiling water over it. Stir for about 2 minutes until the gelatin dissolves.
- Add ½ cup of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the gelatin evenly over the entire cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours to allow the gelatin to set.
Add the Topping:
- Once the gelatin has set, spread a layer of whipped topping over the cake.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the whipped topping.
- Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: At least 4 hours (including refrigeration)
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes

Variations

Cake Flavor: While this recipe uses a white cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like strawberry or angel food cake for a unique twist
Gelatin Flavors: Try using different flavored gelatin, such as raspberry or blueberry, to create a variety of colorful cakes.
Fresh Fruit: Incorporate other fresh fruits like blueberries, kiwi, or pineapple slices as toppings for added flavor and visual appeal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to 4 days.
Reheating: This cake is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?

To avoid a soggy texture, ensure that the holes you poke in the cake are spaced about 1 inch apart. This allows the gelatin to soak in properly without making the cake overly moist.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping. However, whipped topping holds its shape longer, especially when refrigerated.

How can I make the cake ahead of time?

This cake is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance, keeping it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Can I use frozen strawberries as a topping?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen strawberries, ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake?

Yes, refrigeration is essential to allow the gelatin to set properly and to keep the cake fresh.

Can I use a different size baking pan?

If using a different size pan, adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan may require less baking time, while a smaller one may need more.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I freeze this cake?

It’s not recommended to freeze this cake, as the texture of the gelatin and whipped topping may be affected upon thawing.

Can I add nuts to the topping?

Yes, chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can be sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.

Strawberry Jello Cake

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Author: Julia
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is a refreshing and easy dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberry gelatin, a light white cake base, and a creamy whipped topping. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a simple yet visually appealing treat, made with fresh strawberries for that perfect burst of flavor. Ideal for a crowd, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress with its irresistible texture and taste.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. Follow the instructions on the white cake mix package, using water, vegetable oil, and egg whites. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed on the package. Let the cake cool completely (about 1 hour).
Add the Jello: Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or the end of a wooden spoon, spacing about 1 inch apart. Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan, then dissolve the strawberry gelatin mix in the hot water. Stir for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Add ½ cup of cold water and stir. Pour the gelatin evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours for the gelatin to set.
Add the Topping: Once the gelatin has set, spread whipped topping over the cake. Arrange sliced strawberries on top.
Serve: Slice, and serve chilled.

Notes

Cake Variations: Try using strawberry or angel food cake for a different flavor.

Gelatin Options: Experiment with different flavors of gelatin like raspberry or blueberry for a unique twist.

Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Best served chilled, no reheating necessary.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American