Best Strawberry Poke Cake

An Irresistible Strawberry Delight

Imagine biting into a cake that is as soft as a cloud, infused with the sweet essence of strawberries and white chocolate. This is what awaits you with the Best Strawberry Poke Cake. It’s a dessert that not only captures the eye with its vibrant colors but also delights the palate with its rich, creamy layers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Poke Cake is a fan favorite for a reason. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet the results are stunning and delicious. It’s a perfect choice for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a treat for yourself. The combination of moist cake, luscious strawberry filling, and fluffy whipped cream is truly heavenly.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9 x 13 inch cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Spatula
• Electric mixer

Ingredients

Cake Base:

• 1 can of white cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare the mixture)
• 3 egg whites
• 1 cup of water
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

Strawberry White Chocolate Mix:

• 14 oz of sweetened condensed milk
• 3/4 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 package (3 oz.) strawberry-flavored JELL-O gelatin
• 1/4 cup of hot water

Other Ingredients:

• 2 cans (21 oz each) of strawberry pie filling
• 2 cups of heavy whipping cream (full fat and cold)
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 10-15 fresh strawberries (sliced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the White Cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9 x 13 inch cake pan.
3. Prepare the white cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.

Make the White Chocolate and Strawberry Mixture:

1. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.
2. Microwave for about 1 minute, stir, and heat for an additional 30 seconds if necessary. Stir until smooth and shiny.
3. In a separate small bowl, stir the strawberry gelatin into the hot water until dissolved.
4. Add the strawberry gelatin mixture to the condensed milk mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Pour the chocolate strawberry mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Spread evenly with a spatula.
6. Let the cake cool completely before refrigerating for about an hour.

Additional Layers:

1. Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly over the cake.

Whipped Cream:

1. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake with a spatula.

Garnish:

1. Top with sliced fresh strawberries for garnish.
2. Refrigerate the cake for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the whipped cream to prevent it from melting.
• For a more intense strawberry flavor, you can add a few drops of strawberry extract to the gelatin mixture.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try using a different flavor of JELL-O for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• For a lighter version, use a low-fat whipped topping in place of heavy cream.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit overnight enhances the flavors.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for garnish, but you can use frozen ones for the filling if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well.

Conclusion

There you have it—the Best Strawberry Poke Cake that’s sure to wow your friends and family. It’s a delightful dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you might add. Happy baking!