There is nothing quite like a refreshing slice of this Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe to brighten up your day and satisfy your sweet tooth all at once! Combining the zesty tang of lemon cake with the luscious sweetness of strawberry gelatin, this dessert creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that is moist, dreamy, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer gathering or simply treat yourself to a comforting slice of joy, this poke cake brings sunshine to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All of these simple ingredients come together wonderfully to create the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a moist texture and fresh color that makes this cake as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Lemon cake mix: The base of our cake, providing a bright lemon flavor and tender crumb.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Staples used as per cake mix instructions to achieve the right batter consistency.
- Strawberry gelatin (3 oz): This adds that iconic strawberry punch and works magic soaking into the cake.
- Boiling water: Needed to dissolve the gelatin completely for even flavor distribution.
- Cold water: Helps bring the gelatin mixture to the perfect pouring temperature.
- Whipped topping (1 cup): Adds creamy lightness to complement the fruity layers.
- Lemon curd (1/2 cup): Boosts the lemon flavor and adds richness to the topping.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, diced): For a fresh fruity bite and lovely texture contrast.
- Lemon zest (optional): Adds a fragrant citrus sparkle when garnishing the finished cake.
How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Lemon Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your lemon cake batter according to the package directions, combining the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake until golden and springy to the touch. Let the cake cool for about 15 to 20 minutes, just enough so it’s warm but not hot—this helps the gelatin soak beautifully without melting the toppings later.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
Grab the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer and gently poke holes evenly all across the cake’s surface. This step may seem simple, but it’s key to turning this dessert into a poke cake: these holes allow the strawberry gelatin to seep deeply into the cake layers, making every bite juicier and bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Prepare and Pour the Strawberry Gelatin
In a medium bowl, dissolve your strawberry gelatin powder in the boiling water. Stir well until completely dissolved, then add the cold water to bring the temperature down to just right. Slowly pour this vibrant pink mixture evenly over the cake, letting it pool into all those lovely holes you just poked. Once poured, cover the cake and slide it into the fridge for at least 2 hours so it sets perfectly and the flavors meld wonderfully.
Step 4: Whip the Topping and Assemble
While your cake chills, blend the whipped topping and lemon curd in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. When your cake is fully set and chilled, spread this luscious mixture evenly over the top for a dreamy, tangy finish. Finally, scatter the diced fresh strawberries across the surface and, if you like, add a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra pop of color and citrus aroma.
How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this cake doesn’t stop at flavor. Garnish with extra fresh strawberry slices, a few whole mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Lemon zest adds a sunny vibrancy that brightens every slice and cues your guests to the refreshing flavors inside.
Side Dishes
Pair this poke cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a cool, creamy contrast. Light salads with citrus vinaigrettes or simple fruit salads complement the zesty sweetness, rounding out a festive meal or afternoon treat perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this cake in clear glass trifle dishes to show off the vivid pink and yellow layers, or cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties. Individual servings in clear jars layered with extra fresh strawberries and whipped topping can also wow your guests with both flavor and style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe actually gets better after some time in the fridge as the flavors meld further. Simply cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for prepping in advance.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake, though the texture of the gelatin may change slightly after thawing. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve as much moisture and flavor as possible.
Reheating
Since this is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, just bring it out 15–20 minutes before serving to take the chill off slightly and let the flavors shine fully. This ensures each bite remains delightfully refreshing.
FAQs
Can I use homemade lemon cake instead of the box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade lemon cake will bring even more freshness and control over sweetness. Just make sure it’s dense enough to soak up the gelatin without becoming soggy.
Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free whipped topping alternatives and substitute lemon curd with a dairy-free lemon spread or lemon-flavored coconut cream. Just keep the gelatin part the same for that signature poke cake texture.
How long should I poke holes into the cake?
Make sure to poke holes about every 1–2 inches across the cake surface. You don’t need to go too deep—just enough for the gelatin to seep in well without breaking the cake apart.
Can I use other fruit gelatin flavors?
While strawberry is classic here, you can experiment with raspberry or cherry gelatin for a different twist. Just remember to balance the fruit flavor with the lemon base to keep that delightful strawberry lemonade vibe.
What’s the best way to serve this cake at parties?
Slicing it cleanly with a sharp knife and serving cold straight from the fridge keeps it fresh and maintains its structure. Including a few fresh fruit garnishes on each plate makes the presentation pop beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh summer flavors wrapped up in a deliciously moist cake that’s surprisingly easy to make. I can’t recommend it enough for your next gathering or whenever you just need a bright, cheerful dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. Go ahead, give it a try, and let this recipe bring a dose of sunshine to your table!
Print
Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake is a refreshing and vibrant dessert perfect for summer gatherings. Featuring a moist lemon cake base with pockets filled with sweet strawberry gelatin, it’s topped with a creamy lemon curd whipped topping and fresh strawberries for a delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors. The cake is chilled to set the gelatin fully, resulting in a cool, luscious treat that’s both eye-catching and delicious.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box lemon cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box)
Gelatin Filling
- 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
Topping
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup lemon curd
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the lemon cake batter according to the package instructions, then pour it into a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake as directed until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool 15–20 minutes.
- Poke Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, carefully poke holes evenly all over the surface of the cake. These holes will allow the strawberry gelatin to seep into the cake, infusing it with flavor and moisture.
- Prepare Gelatin: In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add 1/2 cup cold water and stir to combine. Pour this gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the poked holes. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the gelatin is fully set and the cake is chilled.
- Mix Topping: In a small bowl, combine the whipped topping and lemon curd. Stir until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Assemble and Garnish: Once the cake is chilled and set, spread the lemon curd-whipped topping evenly over the surface. Scatter diced fresh strawberries on top, and optionally sprinkle lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus aroma.
- Serve: Serve the cake chilled for a refreshing, multi-textured dessert perfect for warm weather or any festive occasion.
Notes
- For enhanced lemon flavor, brush the cooled cake with fresh lemon juice before pouring on the gelatin.
- This cake is ideal for summer get-togethers and can be made a day in advance to allow flavors to meld.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste and texture.
- Ensure the cake is fully chilled before spreading the topping to avoid melting.
