If you have a soft spot for desserts that are bursting with sunshine and freshness, then this Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe is going to become your new obsession. It’s a delightful combination of bright lemon cake infused with sweet strawberry gelatin, topped with fluffy lemon pudding cream and fresh strawberries that make every bite feel like a summer celebration. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, this cake brings an irresistible balance of tart and sweet that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this cake just right starts with simple, carefully chosen ingredients that work beautifully together. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the tangy lemon zest to the luscious strawberry gelatin that seeps into every bite.
- Lemon cake mix: The foundation that delivers a moist, citrus-flavored base packed with lemony goodness.
- Water: Essential for hydrating the cake mix and dissolving the gelatin to create that signature poke effect.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the cake rise perfectly.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake crumb.
- Lemon zest and juice: Enhance the lemon flavor for a fresh, natural zing.
- Strawberry-flavored gelatin mix: Infuses the cake with vibrant color and sweet strawberry notes.
- Cold water: Used to prepare the gelatin for soaking into the cake.
- Milk: Creates the perfect creamy consistency for the pudding topping.
- Instant lemon pudding mix: Adds a smooth, tangy layer that complements the cake beneath.
- Frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip): Brings light, airy texture to the pudding layer.
- Whole or sliced strawberries: Optional for garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Lemon Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake doesn’t stick. In a large bowl, combine the lemon cake mix with 1 cup water, eggs, vegetable oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat everything on low speed until it’s just moistened, then switch to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes to get the batter nice and smooth. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 21 to 26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, take it out and let it cool slightly while you prepare the next step.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Gelatin and Soak the Cake
While the cake is still warm, start boiling 1 cup of water on the stove. Stir in the strawberry gelatin mix until it’s completely dissolved, then add ¼ cup cold water and mix well. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake—this is where the magic happens. Slowly pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak deeply into the holes, turning each slice into a juicy, flavorful morsel. Pop the cake into the refrigerator for at least an hour so the gelatin can set and the cake cools completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Pudding Topping
Next up is the luscious lemon pudding topping. Whisk together the milk and instant lemon pudding mix until it begins to thicken just slightly. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping (Cool Whip) to achieve a light, creamy texture without deflating the fluffiness. This topping adds a smooth tartness that beautifully balances the sweet strawberry-soaked cake beneath.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Spread the lemon pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cake. You want every bit covered so the contrasting flavors meld perfectly. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, scatter whole or sliced strawberries on top if you’d like. Keep the cake refrigerated until you are ready to serve, allowing the flavors to develop even further.
How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries make the perfect finishing touch, lending a juicy brightness that enhances both the taste and appearance of the cake. You can also try adding a few lemon zest curls or light dustings of powdered sugar for an elegant flair. These simple garnishes bring your Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe from delicious to show-stopping in no time.
Side Dishes
This cake stands beautifully as a centerpiece dessert, but if you want to build out a refreshing spread, consider pairing it with light fruit salads or crisp mint-infused iced tea. The cake’s tangy sweetness complements savory bites like chicken salad or light sandwiches too, making it an excellent choice for summertime gatherings or brunches.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, try serving the poke cake in clear dessert trifle dishes that showcase the layered colors and textures. Individual mason jar servings or pretty glass cups also allow guests to indulge while admiring the vibrant strawberry and lemon palette in every portion. Adding edible flowers or colorful straws can take your Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe to the next level of charming and delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps incredibly well in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Store it tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so leftovers can be just as tasty as fresh slices.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this poke cake freezes nicely. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. While the texture may be slightly softer, the vibrant flavor profile holds up brilliantly.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served chilled, reheating isn’t generally recommended. However, if you do want to enjoy it slightly less cold, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving to take the chill off without compromising the delightful creaminess of the topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of the gelatin mix?
The strawberry gelatin is key to soaking into the poke holes and giving that juicy burst of flavor inside the cake. Fresh strawberries make a fantastic garnish but won’t provide the same infusion effect. You can add fresh strawberries alongside the gelatin for extra flavor and texture.
What type of lemon cake mix works best?
A standard yellow or white lemon cake mix works perfectly. Avoid mixes with extra frosting or added ingredients, as you want a clean, simple lemon flavor that melds well with the gelatin and pudding layers.
Can I substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Freshly whipped cream will add a lovely lightness and freshness. Just be gentle when folding it into the pudding mix so it maintains its airy texture.
How long should I let the gelatin soak into the cake?
It’s best to poke the holes and pour the gelatin over the warm cake, then refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the strawberry flavor to fully penetrate the cake, ensuring moist, flavorful bites.
Is this poke cake suitable for parties and large gatherings?
Definitely! The Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe is made in a 9×13 pan and serves about 16, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family at celebrations or casual get-togethers.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about this Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe that makes it a standout favorite every time it’s served. It’s vibrant, fun, and delivers a perfect balance of flavors that feels like a little sunshine on a plate. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying something new, this recipe will quickly become one you turn to again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy all the smiles it brings!
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Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake combines a zesty lemon cake base soaked with vibrant strawberry gelatin, topped with a creamy lemon pudding and whipped topping mixture. This refreshing dessert offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors, ideal for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 (15.25-ounce) package lemon cake mix
- 2 cups water, divided
- 3 large eggs
- â…“ cup vegetable oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Strawberry Gelatin Soak
- 1 (3-ounce) package strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
- ¼ cup cold water
Topping
- ½ cup milk
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant lemon pudding mix
- 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- Whole or sliced strawberries (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, 1 cup of water, eggs, vegetable oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat on low speed until ingredients are moistened, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes until well combined.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 21–26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare Gelatin Soak: While the cake bakes, bring the remaining 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the strawberry gelatin mix until completely dissolved, then add the ¼ cup of cold water and stir to combine.
- Poke Cake and Add Gelatin: Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the warm cake. Slowly pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to let it cool and the gelatin to set.
- Prepare Lemon Pudding Topping: Whisk together the milk and instant lemon pudding mix until slightly thickened. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Top Cake and Garnish: Spread the lemon pudding topping evenly over the cooled cake. Garnish with whole or sliced fresh strawberries if desired. Keep the cake refrigerated until serving.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cake is warm when applying the gelatin soak to allow it to absorb fully.
- You can substitute fresh homemade whipped cream for the frozen whipped topping, but the texture may vary.
- Allow the cake to chill adequately so that the gelatin sets and the pudding topping firms up.
- Slice into 16 servings for easy portion control.
- To enhance lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.
