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Easy Patriotic Poke Cake Recipe with Juicy Strawberry Layers for Fourth of July Celebration

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A festive and easy poke cake featuring juicy strawberry layers soaked with strawberry gelatin and topped with a light cream cheese frosting, perfect for summer celebrations and Fourth of July parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box white cake mix (about 15.25 oz) plus ingredients called for on the box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
  • 1 packet strawberry gelatin (3 oz)
  • 1 1/4 cup boiling water
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced (or thawed frozen berries)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare cake batter according to box instructions (mix cake mix, eggs, oil, and water). Pour batter evenly into prepared pan.
  3. Bake for 28-33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  4. Dissolve strawberry gelatin powder in 1 1/4 cups boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved and let cool slightly but do not let it set.
  5. Slice fresh strawberries thinly and have ready.
  6. Poke holes about 1 inch apart all over the cake surface using a wooden spoon handle or skewer.
  7. Pour the cooled but still liquid gelatin evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Spread sliced strawberries evenly over the top, gently pressing them into the gelatin.
  8. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until gelatin is set and cake has absorbed the strawberry flavor.
  9. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
  10. Spread frosting evenly over the chilled cake. Top with fresh blueberries and extra sliced strawberries.
  11. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use just enough gelatin to soak the cake without making it soggy. Let gelatin cool slightly before pouring to avoid melting the cake crumb. Chill cake overnight for best flavor. For gluten-free, substitute cake mix with gluten-free brand. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and butter alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: poke cake, patriotic cake, strawberry poke cake, Fourth of July dessert, easy summer cake, cream cheese frosting, berry dessert

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/easy-patriotic-poke-cake-recipe-with-juicy-strawberry-layers-for-fourth-of-july-celebration/