When summer rolls around, there’s nothing quite like a deliciously moist poke cake infused with vibrant Jello flavors to keep things refreshing and fun. These tropical-inspired poke cake recipes will have everyone coming back for seconds as you celebrate summer gatherings, picnics, and even casual get-togethers with friends.
Each recipe combines a light, fluffy cake base soaked in fruity Jello goodness, creating a delightful dessert that’s not only visually stunning but also a burst of flavor in every bite. From classic strawberry to tantalizing pineapple coconut, these poke cakes are your go-to for a sweet treat that screams summer sunshine. Let’s dive into ten fabulous Jello-infused poke cake recipes that will brighten any occasion!
1. Classic Strawberry Jello Poke Cake
This timeless favorite features a fluffy vanilla cake soaked in sweet strawberry Jello, giving it that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Each slice is adorned with fresh strawberries and a light whipped cream topping that adds a creamy texture.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Sugar: 20g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of strawberry Jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Fresh strawberries for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This nonstick pan ensures that your cake will come out easily after baking, making cleanup a breeze.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Once cooled, poke holes throughout the cake using the end of a wooden spoon. This handy utensil is both lightweight and durable, making it perfect for creating those holes without damaging your cake.
5. In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jello in boiling water. Stir in cold water.
6. Pour the Jello mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
8. Top with whipped cream using a whipped cream dispenser for a professional finish, and add fresh strawberries before serving. This dispenser allows you to create beautiful swirls of whipped cream with ease.
Tips:
– For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to brighten the cake.
– Refrigerate the cake overnight for even more flavor depth.
A slice of Classic Strawberry Jello Poke Cake is like a little piece of joy on your plate! With its fluffy vanilla base and sweet strawberry infusion, it’s a dessert that balances flavor and nostalgia perfectly.
2. Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake
Bring the tropics to your table with this delightful pineapple coconut poke cake. The combination of sweet pineapple and creamy coconut flavor is a match made in dessert heaven.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 10
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 280 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 280
– Total Fat: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Sugar: 22g
– Protein: 4g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of yellow cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of pineapple Jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Toasted coconut for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch pan.
2. Mix the cake ingredients until well blended and pour into the pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. After cooling, poke holes into the cake with a fork.
4. Dissolve the pineapple Jello in boiling water and add cold water. Pour over the cake.
5. Chill for at least 2 hours. Top with whipped cream and toasted coconut before serving.
Tips:
– Use fresh pineapple for a more pronounced flavor. For easy slicing, consider using a pineapple slicer to effortlessly core and slice your fruit.
– Serve it with a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added crunch.
Indulge in the tropical bliss of Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake! With just 280 calories per slice, it’s a delicious escape that promises to elevate your dessert game. Dive into flavor paradise!
3. Blue Raspberry Jello Poke Cake
This vibrant blue raspberry poke cake is sure to turn heads and tantalize taste buds. The striking color makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any summer event. The sweet-tart flavor of blue raspberry Jello contrasts beautifully with a fluffy vanilla cake base.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 230 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 230
– Total Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 39g
– Sugar: 18g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of blue raspberry Jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Blueberries for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, mix cake ingredients until smooth, then pour into the pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Cool, then poke holes throughout the cake.
4. Mix blue raspberry Jello in boiling water, add cold water, and pour over the cake.
5. Chill for 2 hours, then top with whipped cream and blueberries.
Tips:
– Add a bit of lemon zest to the cake mix for added zing.
– For a fun twist, mix in some blue sprinkles on top to give your cake an extra pop of color and excitement.
Make a splash at your next gathering with a Blue Raspberry Jello Poke Cake! Its vibrant hues and sweet-tart flavor create the perfect bite-sized summer delight that will have everyone coming back for more.
4. Tropical Fruit Poke Cake
A delightful medley of tropical fruits comes together in this poke cake that’s perfect for summer gatherings. With a base of light vanilla cake and a topping of assorted fruits such as mango, kiwi, and passionfruit, this dessert is as colorful as it is delicious.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 260 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 260
– Total Fat: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 42g
– Sugar: 19g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of Betty Crocker Delights Super Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of tropical fruit Jello (or pineapple)
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– Assorted diced tropical fruits for topping
– Whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine cake ingredients, including the vanilla cake mix, and mix well, then pour into the pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Allow to cool, then poke holes in the top of the cake.
4. Dissolve the tropical fruit Jello in boiling water and add cold water. Pour over the cake.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, then top with whipped cream and assorted fruits.
Tips:
– Use fresh seasonal fruits to enhance flavor.
– Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for an extra tropical touch.
Incorporating vanilla cake mix from Betty Crocker ensures a moist and flavorful cake base that perfectly complements the vibrant fruits. The tropical fruit Jello adds an irresistible, fruity sweetness that infuses the cake, making it ideal for showcasing your favorite tropical fruits. Enjoy this refreshing dessert at your next summer gathering!
5. Watermelon Jello Poke Cake
Celebrate summer with this fun watermelon Jello poke cake that captures all the flavors of a summertime picnic. This cake is not only delicious but also visually fun, resembling a slice of watermelon.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 10
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 240 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 240
– Total Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 39g
– Sugar: 17g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of watermelon Jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– Green and red frosting for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan. A nonstick baking pan will ensure your cake comes out easily and bakes evenly.
2. Mix the vanilla cake ingredients until smooth and pour into the pan. Bake for 25 minutes.
3. Once cooled, poke holes in the cake.
4. Prepare watermelon Jello by dissolving it in boiling water and adding cold water. Pour over the cake.
5. Decorate with red frosting to resemble watermelon flesh and green frosting for the rind. A decorating frosting set can help you create fun designs, making the cake visually appealing. Chill before serving.
Tips:
– Use mini chocolate chips to resemble seeds for added fun.
– Serve cold for a refreshing summer treat. Don’t forget to grab some watermelon Jello mix to ensure your cake has that authentic summer flavor!
You might also like
6. Citrus Sunshine Jello Poke Cake
Brighten your day with this zesty citrus sunshine poke cake! Bursting with flavors of lemon and orange, this cake is a refreshing twist perfect for warm weather. It’s light, fluffy, and drenched in zesty Jello that leaves your taste buds dancing.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 210 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 210
– Total Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 38g
– Sugar: 16g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of lemon cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of lemon Jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– Orange slices and lemon zest for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs until smooth, then pour into the pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Let cool and poke holes in the cake.
4. Prepare lemon Jello by dissolving it in boiling water, then add cold water. Pour over the cake.
5. Chill for at least 2 hours, then top with orange slices and lemon zest.
Tips:
– Add a splash of lime juice for an extra citrus punch.
– For a beautiful presentation, use a citrus zester to create long strips of lemon zest for decoration.
To ensure your cake has that perfect citrus flavor, you’ll want to have some lemon Jello on hand. This easy-to-use ingredient will give your cake the refreshing zest it needs, making it a delightful treat for any occasion!
7. Cherry Limeade Jello Poke Cake
This cherry limeade poke cake is a fun and vibrant dessert that’s perfect for summer parties. The tartness from the lime balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cherry Jello, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 220 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 220
– Total Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Sugar: 19g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of white cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of cherry Jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– Lime wedges and whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch pan. A recommended option is the 9×13 inch baking pan, which ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake.
2. Mix together cake ingredients until smooth, then pour into the pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Cool and poke holes in the cake.
4. Dissolve cherry Jello in boiling water and add cold water. Pour over the cake.
5. Chill for 2 hours, then top with whipped cream and lime wedges. Using a whipped cream dispenser can make it effortless to create a beautiful topping that’s perfect for this dessert.
Tips:
– Use maraschino cherries for an extra pop of color and flavor. These cherries elevate the presentation and taste, making your cake even more appealing.
– For an adult version, consider adding a splash of rum to the whipped cream.
8. Peach Melba Jello Poke Cake
Indulge in the sweet flavors of summer with this peach melba poke cake. Combining ripe peaches with raspberry Jello, this dessert is not only delicious but also offers a beautiful visual contrast that will impress your guests.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 260 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 260
– Total Fat: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 42g
– Sugar: 20g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of yellow cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of raspberry Jello (try Jell-O raspberry gelatin dessert mix for a perfect flavor boost)
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– Fresh peaches for topping
– Whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine the cake ingredients and pour into the pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Cool the cake, then poke holes in the top.
4. Mix raspberry Jello with boiling water, add cold water, then pour over the cake.
5. Chill for 2 hours, then top with whipped cream and fresh peach slices.
Tips:
– Use ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor.
– Consider a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an added depth of flavor.
Savor the summer vibes with a Peach Melba Jello Poke Cake! Bursting with juicy peaches and vibrant raspberry, it’s a stunning treat that’s as delightful to share as it is to eat!
You Might Also Like
9. Neon Rainbow Jello Poke Cake
Turn your dessert table into a colorful masterpiece with this neon rainbow poke cake! Layered with different colors of Jello, each slice reveals a fun, multicolored surprise that’s perfect for celebrations. It’s a cake that not only tastes great but also looks absolutely stunning!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Sugar: 20g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– Multiple small boxes of different flavored Jello (red, orange, yellow, green, blue)
– 1 cup boiling water for each Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the vanilla cake according to the package instructions and pour into the pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Cool and poke holes into the cake.
4. For each color of Jello, dissolve it in boiling water and mix in cold water. Pour each layer over the cake, allowing some time for each to set in the fridge.
5. Top with whipped cream before serving.
Tips:
– Let each layer set for at least 30 minutes before adding the next for clearer layers.
– Use a serrated knife to cut the cake cleanly and show off the rainbow layers. The serrated edge is perfect for slicing through the soft cake without tearing it, making sure each piece remains beautiful and intact.
With these helpful tools, your neon rainbow poke cake will not only taste delicious but also look impressive at any gathering!
10. Key Lime Jello Poke Cake
This key lime poke cake captures the essence of tropical shores with its zesty lime flavor and creamy topping. A delightful dessert that’s both refreshing and rich, it’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: Approximately 230 per slice
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 230
– Total Fat: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Sugar: 18g
– Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 box of key lime cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 small box of key lime Jello
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– Whipped cream and lime zest for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This nonstick bakeware will make it easy to release your cake when it’s done.
2. Prepare the key lime cake mix according to package instructions and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Cool the cake, then poke holes in it.
4. Dissolve the key lime Jello from the Key Lime Jello in boiling water, then add cold water and pour over the cake.
5. Chill for 2 hours. Top with whipped cream and lime zest before serving. Consider using a whipped cream dispenser for a light and perfectly piped topping; it makes serving even more enjoyable!
Tips:
– A sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top can enhance the key lime pie flavor.
– Serve it with a slice of lime for a beautiful presentation.
Conclusion
These soaked poke cake recipes infused with Jello are sure to become summer favorites, bringing joy and color to any gathering. With such a variety of flavors, from classic to tropical, there’s a poke cake for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t forget to share these delightful recipes with friends and family and make your next summer event a memorable one! What’s your favorite poke cake flavor?
Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a poke cake and how is it different from regular cake?
A poke cake is a delightful dessert where holes are poked into a baked cake, allowing flavorful liquids, like Jello, to soak in. This results in a moist and vibrant cake that’s bursting with flavor, making it a fun twist on traditional cake recipes. Unlike regular cakes, poke cakes are all about that juicy infusion, creating a unique texture and taste experience!
Can I use different flavors of Jello for my poke cake recipes?
Absolutely! The beauty of flavored poke cake recipes is their versatility. You can mix and match different Jello flavors to create your own unique combinations. For instance, try a blue raspberry Jello poke cake for a fun summer treat or experiment with tropical flavors like pineapple and coconut. The sky’s the limit when it comes to delicious flavor pairings!
Are poke cakes easy to make, and do they require special ingredients?
Yes, easy poke cake recipes are perfect for bakers of all skill levels! Most recipes call for simple ingredients like cake mix, Jello, and whipped topping. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a fork to poke holes in the cake. It’s a fun and straightforward way to create a stunning dessert, especially during the summer months!
How do I store leftover poke cake?
To keep your poke cake fresh and delicious, store it covered in the refrigerator. The moisture from the Jello helps keep the cake moist, but it’s best to consume it within a few days for optimal flavor and texture. If you have a layered poke cake with fresh fruits, consider consuming it within 1-2 days to maintain the freshness of the toppings.
What are some creative toppings for my Jello-infused poke cake?
Get creative with toppings! Fresh fruits, like berries or tropical slices, can add a pop of color and flavor. Consider adding a drizzle of whipped cream, a sprinkle of nuts for crunch, or even a layer of coconut flakes to enhance the tropical vibe. You can also try a fun Neon Rainbow Jello Poke Cake with colorful layers for a visually stunning dessert that’s sure to impress at any summer gathering!
About The Author
