Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake Recipe Festive Dessert

If you’re searching for a dessert that combines bright colors, rich flavors, and an irresistibly moist texture, look no further than the Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake. This cake is a delightful fusion of classic flavors—strawberry, vanilla, and a splash of funfetti—wrapped up in a beautifully layered dessert that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Ideal for celebrations, gatherings, or simply as a treat to brighten your day, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

What is a Poke Cake?

The concept of the poke cake originated in the 1970s, and it has since become a staple in American dessert culture. The idea is simple: bake a cake, poke holes in it, and then pour a liquid (such as jello, pudding, or syrup) over the top, allowing the cake to absorb the liquid and become incredibly moist and flavorful. The end result is a cake that’s rich in taste and has a beautifully marbled appearance when sliced.

The poke cake is incredibly versatile and can be customized with various flavors and toppings. In this recipe, we’re focusing on a strawberry jello infused cake, combined with funfetti for a festive touch and a whipped cream topping that adds a light, airy finish. This combination makes for a cake that is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any occasion where a sweet, colorful treat is desired.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Chocolate Poke Cake, which offers a rich, chocolatey alternative to this fruity delight.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake. Here are just a few:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of strawberry cake mix, strawberry jello, and vanilla pudding creates a burst of flavor that’s both sweet and tangy. The funfetti adds a touch of whimsy, making each bite a celebration.
Moist and Tender Texture: The jello that’s poured over the cake soaks into every nook and cranny, resulting in a cake that’s incredibly moist and tender. The whipped cream topping adds a light, fluffy contrast to the dense, flavorful cake.
Eye-Catching Presentation: With its vibrant pink hue, rainbow sprinkles, and fresh strawberry garnish, this cake is a showstopper. It’s perfect for parties, and it’s guaranteed to impress both kids and adults alike.

If you enjoy desserts that are both delicious and visually stunning, you might also like Oatmeal Yogurt Apple Cake, which combines wholesome ingredients with a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients Overview

To create this delightful Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that contribute to its rich flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

1 box Strawberry Cake Mix (Pillsbury recommended)
1 3.4-ounce box Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
3 large Eggs
3/4 cup Milk or Water
3/4 cup Light Sour Cream or Vanilla Greek Yogurt
1 teaspoon Strawberry Extract (optional, but enhances strawberry flavor)
1/4 cup Sprinkles (for the funfetti effect)
1 14-ounce can Sweetened Condensed Milk

For the Jello:

1 box Strawberry Jello (3 ounces)
1 cup Boiling Water
1/2 cup Cold Water

For the Topping:

1 1/2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
1/4 cup Vanilla Cake Mix (dry)
Additional Sprinkles for garnish
Fresh Strawberries for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips:

Strawberry Extract: This is optional but highly recommended for an extra boost of strawberry flavor. If you don’t have strawberry extract, you can substitute it with vanilla extract, although the strawberry flavor will be less pronounced.
Sprinkles: Use non-bleeding sprinkles to maintain the vibrant colors throughout the cake.
Whipping Cream: Ensure your whipping cream is cold before beating to achieve the best results.

Tools and Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools and equipment ready:

Mixing bowls (various sizes)
Electric mixer or hand whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
9×13-inch baking pan
Wooden spoon or another round tool for poking holes
Rubber spatula
Metal mixing bowl (chilled for whipping cream)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake

1. Preparing the Cake Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, vegetable oil, eggs, milk or water, sour cream or yogurt, and strawberry extract. Use an electric mixer to beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Gently fold in the sprinkles, taking care not to overmix to avoid the colors from bleeding.
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for about 20 minutes. The cake should still be slightly warm when you add the jello.

2. Poking and Adding the Jello

While the cake is still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon or another round tool to poke holes all over the cake. The holes should be about 1 inch apart and deep enough to allow the jello to seep through the cake.
Prepare the strawberry jello by dissolving the jello powder in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the jello is fully dissolved, then add 1/2 cup of cold water.
Carefully pour the jello mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills all the holes evenly. The cake will absorb the jello, creating a moist and flavorful interior.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the jello to set and the flavors to meld.

3. Making the Funfetti Whipped Cream Topping

Before you start, place a metal mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This helps the whipped cream reach stiff peaks more easily.
Pour the heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl and beat on high speed until it begins to thicken.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and dry vanilla cake mix, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. The cake mix adds a subtle vanilla flavor that complements the strawberry.
Once the cream is ready, spread it evenly over the chilled cake using a rubber spatula. Ensure the topping is smooth and covers the entire surface of the cake.
Garnish the cake with additional sprinkles and fresh strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.

4. Decorating and Serving Suggestions

To make your cake even more spectacular, consider the following decoration and serving ideas:

Fresh Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and arrange them in a decorative pattern on top of the cake. This adds a fresh, fruity touch that enhances the overall flavor.
Extra Sprinkles: Sprinkle more funfetti on top of the whipped cream for an extra pop of color. This makes the cake even more festive and visually appealing.
Piped Whipped Cream: For a professional finish, use a piping bag to add decorative swirls of whipped cream around the edges of the cake.
Serve Chilled: This cake is best served cold, so be sure to refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. The cool, creamy topping combined with the moist cake makes for a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm weather.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Fresh Strawberries in the Cake Batter?

Yes, you can fold chopped fresh strawberries into the batter before baking for an extra burst of flavor. However, keep in mind that adding fresh strawberries can increase the moisture content of the cake, so be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Alternatively, fresh strawberries make an excellent garnish that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.

How Should I Store the Cake?

Because of the jello and whipped cream topping, this cake must be stored in the refrigerator. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to three days. The cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.

Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! To make this cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk, sour cream, and whipping cream with dairy-free alternatives. There are plenty of delicious options available that will still yield a tasty and moist cake.

What Other Flavor Combinations Can I Try?

The beauty of a poke cake is its versatility. You can swap the strawberry cake mix for other flavors like lemon, chocolate, or vanilla, and pair it with a complementary jello flavor. For instance, a lemon cake with raspberry jello would be a refreshing combination, or a chocolate cake with cherry jello for a Black Forest-inspired treat. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Final Thoughts

A Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate. The combination of vibrant colors, rich flavors, and playful textures makes it an ideal choice for any festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a summer barbecue, or just looking for a way to brighten up a regular day, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

With its moist, jello-infused layers and light whipped cream topping, this cake is both satisfying and refreshing. The funfetti adds a touch of whimsy, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, the cake is easy to make and versatile enough to customize with your favorite flavors and toppings.

So, next time you’re in the mood to bake something special, give this Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake a try. It’s a dessert that’s sure to leave everyone smiling and reaching for seconds!

The Ultimate Guide to Making a Strawberry Funfetti Jello Poke Cake