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Easy No-Fail Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe with Cool Whip Frosting Perfect for Beginners

strawberry poke cake - featured image

A quick and easy strawberry poke cake that is moist, light, and topped with fluffy Cool Whip frosting. Perfect for beginners and ideal for summer gatherings or last-minute desserts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin powder
  • 1 cup (240 ml) boiling water
  • 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip topping, thawed
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
  3. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  5. While the cake bakes, dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved and let cool slightly but do not let it set.
  6. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the cake about every inch.
  7. Slowly pour the cooled gelatin evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
  8. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to let the gelatin set and flavors meld.
  9. Spread the thawed Cool Whip topping evenly over the chilled cake. Optionally, fold fresh sliced strawberries into the Cool Whip before spreading.
  10. Garnish with additional fresh strawberries or sprinkles if desired. Keep refrigerated until serving.

Notes

Do not skip poking holes in the cake to allow the gelatin to soak in for moist texture. Cool the gelatin before pouring to avoid melting the cake. Keep Cool Whip cold until use to maintain fluffiness. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before frosting. For dairy-free, use coconut-based whipped topping; for gluten-free, use gluten-free cake mix.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry poke cake, easy strawberry cake, Cool Whip frosting, no-fail cake, summer dessert, poke cake recipe, beginner friendly dessert