Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is a bright, fruity dessert that feels both classic and fun. It starts with soft white cake, then fills with sweet strawberries and finishes with fluffy whipped topping. It is simple, fresh, and perfect for sharing.
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What Is a Poke Cake?
A poke cake is exactly what it sounds like. First, you bake a simple sheet cake. Then, while it cools, you poke holes all across the top. After that, you pour or spread a filling over it so the flavor seeps down inside.
Because of this method, every bite tastes moist and rich. Instead of adding frosting only on top, you add flavor throughout the cake. As a result, you get texture and sweetness in every slice.
Many families love poke cakes since they use basic ingredients. In fact, you can switch up the filling to match any season. For this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, the strawberry pie filling soaks into the cake and creates a fruity layer inside. Meanwhile, whipped topping adds a light finish that balances the sweetness.
How the Poke Cake Method Creates Extra Moisture and Flavor
When you poke holes into the cake, you create little tunnels for the filling. Then the strawberry pie filling slowly sinks down into those spaces. As a result, the cake stays soft and flavorful instead of dry. Every forkful of Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake tastes fruity and tender from top to bottom.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
You will love this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake because it is easy and budget friendly. First, you start with a boxed white cake mix. Then you add strawberry pie filling and whipped topping for a quick finish.
Since it uses simple ingredients, this easy strawberry dessert fits busy days. Also, it makes a beautiful strawberry cake with whipped topping that looks impressive on the table. However, you do not need special skills to make it.
In addition, you can prepare Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake ahead of time. Just chill it until serving. Because it slices neatly into squares, it works well for parties, potlucks, or family dinners. Everyone loves the sweet strawberry flavor and creamy top layer.
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake uses just a handful of easy ingredients. Each one plays an important role in texture and flavor.
Cake Base
You need one box of white cake mix plus the ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water. The white cake creates a soft and neutral base. Because it has a light flavor, it pairs perfectly with sweet strawberries. Prepare it exactly as directed so the texture turns out tender.
Strawberry Filling Layer
You will use 3 cups of strawberry pie filling, which equals about one and a half 21 ounce cans. This filling brings bold strawberry flavor. As it seeps into the holes, it adds moisture and sweetness to the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake.
Topping
Use 8 ounces of thawed whipped topping for a light and creamy finish. Spread it smoothly over the strawberry layer. Then add 2 cups of sliced fresh strawberries on top just before serving. The fresh fruit adds color, texture, and a bright taste that makes this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake feel fresh and special.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Step by Step
Making Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is simple. Just follow each step in order, and you will have a beautiful dessert ready to chill.
Bake the White Cake
First, prepare the white cake batter according to the package directions. Next, pour the batter into a 9 by 13 inch pan. Bake it until fully cooked, usually about 25 minutes.
Then let the cake cool completely to room temperature. This step matters because a warm cake can cause the filling to slide too quickly.
Poke the Holes
Once the cake cools, take a thin wooden spoon handle, thick straw, or chopstick. Poke holes about one inch apart across the entire cake. However, stop about two thirds of the way down. Do not push all the way to the bottom.
Because the spacing matters, avoid placing the holes too close together. This keeps the cake sturdy.
Add the Strawberry Pie Filling
Next, spoon the strawberry pie filling over the cake. Spread it evenly across the surface. Then gently press the filling so it seeps into the holes.
As a result, the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake absorbs that sweet strawberry flavor inside.
Add Whipped Topping and Chill
After that, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the cake. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Then refrigerate the cake for at least one hour. Meanwhile, the filling settles and the layers firm up.
Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, arrange sliced fresh strawberries over the top. Then cut the cake into 12 squares.
Each piece of Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake will show soft cake, strawberry filling, and creamy topping in every bite.
Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
A few simple tips will help your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake turn out perfect every time.
Hole Spacing Matters
Keep the holes about one inch apart. If you place them too close, the cake may lose structure. On the other hand, if they are too far apart, you will not get enough filling in each bite.
Best Tools for Poking
Use a wooden spoon handle, thick straw, or chopstick. These tools create holes wide enough for filling. However, avoid using a fork because the holes will be too small.
Add Fresh Strawberries at the Right Time
Wait to add fresh strawberries until right before serving. Otherwise, their juices may bleed into the whipped topping and change the color.
Make Ahead Advice
You can make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake a day in advance. Simply cover it and keep it in the refrigerator. Then add fresh strawberries before serving for the best look.
Variations and Easy Substitutions
You can easily change up this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake to match your taste. For example, swap the white cake mix for vanilla or yellow cake. The flavor will still pair beautifully with strawberries.
If you prefer homemade whipped cream, you can use it instead of whipped topping. Just whip heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form. Then spread it over the cake.
Also, try different fruit fillings for fun twists. Cherry or blueberry pie filling works well. As a result, you can create a new poke cake flavor using the same simple method.
Storage and Make Ahead Instructions
Store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to two days.
Because this cake contains whipped topping and fruit, refrigeration is important. For best texture, keep it chilled until serving. Also, remember to add fresh strawberries only when ready to serve so the topping stays bright and fluffy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does strawberry poke cake have to be refrigerated?
Yes, you should refrigerate Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake. The whipped topping and fruit require cold storage, and chilling also helps the layers set properly.
How do you prevent a poke cake from being soggy?
First, let the cake cool completely before adding filling. Then avoid poking holes too close together. As a result, the cake keeps its structure while still absorbing flavor.
How long does a poke cake need to sit?
Let Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake chill for at least one hour. However, longer chilling, even a few hours, helps the flavors blend even more.
What do you put in the holes of a poke cake?
For this recipe, you put strawberry pie filling into the holes. In other recipes, people use pudding, sweetened condensed milk, or fruit sauces.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake and Apple Cobbler Recipe
- Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake and Magic Lemon Cobbler Recipe
- Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake and Chocolate Pie Recipe
- Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake and Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies
- Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake and Sourdough Peach Cobbler
- Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake and Air Fryer Apples Dessert
Conclusion
Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake brings together soft white cake, sweet strawberry filling, and fluffy whipped topping in one simple dessert. Because the filling soaks into the cake, every bite tastes moist and fruity.
It is easy to make, budget friendly, and perfect for gatherings. Whether you serve it at a birthday, potluck, or weekend dinner, this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake always impresses. Try it once, and it may become your new favorite dessert recipe.
For more sweet ideas and daily inspiration, visit pinterest and save your next treat.
Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan For baking the cake evenly.
- Wooden spoon handle or straw For poking holes in the cake.
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix plus ingredients listed on box such as eggs, oil, and water
- 3 cups strawberry pie filling about 1 1/2 cans 21 ounce each
- 8 ounces whipped topping thawed
- 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the white cake batter according to package directions. Pour into a 9 by 13 inch pan and bake until done, about 25 minutes. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature.
- Use a thin wooden spoon handle, thick straw, or chopstick to poke holes about 1 inch apart across the cake. Push about two thirds of the way down without going to the bottom.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly over the cake. Gently press so the filling seeps into the holes.
- Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the cake. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Just before serving, arrange sliced fresh strawberries on top. Cut into 12 squares and serve.
