Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 box of vanilla cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1 cup of water; 1/3 cup of vegetable oil; 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup of granulated sugar; 1 box of strawberry gelatin; 2 cups of heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup of powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Home-Style Sweets

I absolutely love making this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake for gatherings and special occasions. It's a delightful combination of moist cake, fresh strawberries, and velvety whipped cream that never fails to impress. The fun part is poking holes into the cake and allowing the sweet strawberry mixture to penetrate it, creating an irresistible burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it comes together relatively quickly, making it a go-to recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:01:36.086Z

When I first tried making this poke cake, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a show-stopping dessert. The key is the strawberry mixture that soaks into the warm cake, creating a beautiful blend of flavors. I recommend using fresh strawberries when they are in season; their sweetness will elevate the whole dish. Don’t forget to let the cake chill for at least an hour after assembling—it allows the flavors to meld perfectly!

I also discovered the beauty of using a boxed cake mix for the base. It saves time and still results in an incredibly moist and tender cake. Just be sure to follow the baking instructions carefully, as overbaking can lead to dryness. Trust me, the fresh whipped cream on top makes all the difference, so don’t rush that part!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Mouthwatering layers of fresh strawberries and cream
Easy to make with minimal steps
Perfect for summer parties and celebrations

The Perfect Cake Base

Using a box of vanilla cake mix is a convenient way to create a light and airy cake that serves as the perfect foundation for this dessert. Ensuring you follow the mixing instructions closely will result in a uniform batter that rises evenly. Remember, overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so mix until just combined. Bake until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean—this usually takes about 30 minutes at 350°F, but do keep an eye on it as oven temperatures can vary.

If you want to elevate the flavor of your cake, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest to the batter. These ingredients will harmonize beautifully with the strawberries and whipped cream. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack, which helps maintain moisture and prevents a soggy bottom.

Strawberry Filling Secrets

Letting the sliced strawberries sit with sugar for about 10 minutes is essential for drawing out their natural juices, creating a delicious syrup that enhances the flavor of the cake. If you're short on time, consider using frozen strawberries. Thaw them first, and use the same method to release juice—just remember that frozen strawberries might yield more liquid, so adjust the gel accordingly if you find it too runny.

Mixing in the strawberry gelatin should be done promptly after the juices are released; this ensures the flavors meld well before being poured over the cake. The gelatin serves a dual purpose—not only does it create a vibrant, sweet sauce, but it also helps the filling set, giving you a beautiful layered look when you slice into the cake.

Mastering Whipped Cream Topping

To achieve the perfect whipped cream, make sure your heavy whipping cream is cold before starting. If you have a metal mixing bowl, chilling it in the refrigerator beforehand can help create a fluffier texture. When beating, keep an eye on it; stopping at soft peaks means the cream is just the right consistency for spreading without collapsing, which typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.

For added texture and flavor, consider folding in some grated lemon or lime zest to the whipped cream before spreading it over the cake. This will add a refreshing brightness that complements the strawberries beautifully. If you want to make it ahead of time, store the whipped cream separately in an airtight container, as it can lose volume if left on the cake for too long.

Ingredients

Cake and Strawberry Filling

1 box of vanilla cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup of water
1/3 cup of vegetable oil
1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup of granulated sugar
1 box of strawberry gelatin

Whipped Cream Topping

2 cups of heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare Strawberry Filling

While the cake is baking, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to release the juices. Mix the strawberry gelatin powder with the released strawberry juice.

Poke Holes

Once the cake is done and slightly cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the cake.

Add Strawberry Filling

Pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Make the Whipped Cream

In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the chilled cake.

Serve

Garnish with additional fresh strawberries, if desired. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

For a twist, you can add other berries to the topping!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries while they macerate. It enhances their sweetness immensely.

Storage Tips

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dessert is best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days, as the whipped cream may start to weep otherwise. If your cake has been cut, use a piece of parchment paper between layers of cake to keep it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fully assembled cake without the whipped cream. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and add the whipped cream just before serving to maintain its fluffiness.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, consider garnishing individual slices with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for added texture. Fresh mint leaves can also provide a pop of color and flavor, enhancing the overall presentation.

If you're looking to impress, serve the cake in parfait glasses layered with additional strawberries and whipped cream to highlight its beautiful components. This not only elevates the experience for your guests but also allows for portion control, making it an attractive option for gatherings.

Variations to Try

For a fun twist on the classic recipe, swap out the vanilla cake mix for a lemon or coconut flavored cake mix. The citrus notes pair beautifully with the strawberries, giving the cake an uplifting zing. You can even consider incorporating other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a mixed berry version of the poke cake.

If you want to make the cake a bit more decadent, try adding layers of cream cheese frosting beneath the whipped cream layer. This will provide a rich contrast to the lightness of the whipped cream and cake, creating a delightful combination of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid.

→ How long can I store the cake?

The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; however, it’s best served fresh.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Certainly! Just use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping, but it won't have the same rich flavor.