If you love strawberry shortcake and poke cake, get ready for the best of both worlds. This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is the ultimate make-ahead dessert: moist vanilla cake, sweet strawberry gelatin, creamy whipped topping, and crushed shortbread cookies—all layered into a chilled, luscious dessert that’s a guaranteed hit at every gathering.
Whether you’re prepping for a potluck, BBQ, birthday, or just craving a nostalgic treat, this dessert is simple to make, stunning to serve, and impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
- Made with pantry staples: cake mix, Jell-O, whipped topping
- No fancy equipment needed—just a 9×13 baking dish
- Cool and refreshing, perfect for spring and summer
- Ideal for feeding a crowd
- Customizable with homemade or store-bought ingredients
This strawberry shortcake poke cake isn’t just easy—it’s an irresistible blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients for Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 box white or vanilla cake mix
- Ingredients required for cake mix (usually eggs, oil, water)
- 1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
For the Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup crushed shortbread cookies (or Golden Oreos/graham crackers)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (optional for garnish)
- Optional: ½ cup instant vanilla pudding (for added creaminess mixed into whipped topping)
Instructions – How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare cake mix according to box instructions.
- Pour into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake as directed (usually 25–30 minutes).
- Allow to cool for 15–20 minutes.
Step 2: Poke the Holes
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
- Make sure the holes go at least ¾ of the way through the cake for best absorption.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Jell-O
- In a bowl, dissolve strawberry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water.
- Stir well, then add ½ cup cold water and mix until combined.
Step 4: Pour Over the Cake
- Slowly pour the Jell-O mixture over the poked holes in the cake, making sure to fill each hole.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
Step 5: Add Whipped Topping
- Once the cake is fully set, spread Cool Whip or your whipped topping evenly across the surface.
- For extra flavor, you can fold vanilla pudding into the topping before spreading.
Step 6: Finish with Crushed Cookies and Strawberries
- Sprinkle crushed shortbread cookies or cookie crumbs over the whipped topping.
- Add fresh diced strawberries just before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
What Makes This Cake So Special?
This cake is a total crowd-pleaser because it combines:
- Moist vanilla cake soaked with sweet strawberry gelatin
- Light, fluffy whipped topping that keeps things creamy
- Crunchy cookie crumble for that “shortcake” texture
- Fresh berries for a fruity, slightly tangy finish
Every bite offers sweetness, tang, creaminess, and crunch—a true strawberry shortcake experience in every slice.
Tips for the Perfect Poke Cake
1. Poke Deep Holes
Make sure you reach nearly the bottom of the cake so the Jell-O seeps through.
2. Chill Thoroughly
This cake is best served cold—chill for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.
3. Use Fresh Strawberries
Add them just before serving to keep them bright and juicy.
4. Use Homemade Whipped Cream (Optional)
Swap Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a more natural flavor.
5. Crumble Cookies Just Before Serving
This keeps the topping crunchy rather than soggy.
Fun Variations to Try
1. Lemon Twist
Use lemon cake mix and lemon Jell-O with strawberries on top.
2. Strawberry Cheesecake Version
Add a layer of cream cheese frosting beneath the whipped topping.
3. Berry Medley
Use a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries for a triple-berry version.
4. Chocolate Strawberry Poke Cake
Use chocolate cake mix, strawberry Jell-O, and top with chocolate shavings.
5. Gluten-Free Version
Use your favorite gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free cookies.
How to Store Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Refrigerator:
- Store in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
- You can freeze the cake (without toppings) for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and top before serving.
FAQs About Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?
Yes! A simple vanilla or white cake recipe will work beautifully.
Do I have to use Jell-O?
Jell-O gives the cake its iconic texture and color. You can substitute with fruit puree thickened with gelatin for a homemade version.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely—raspberries, blueberries, peaches, and even pineapple work well.
How far ahead can I make this cake?
You can prep it 1–2 days in advance and add toppings the day you serve.
What’s the best cookie for topping?
Shortbread, vanilla wafers, Golden Oreos, or graham crackers all work well.
Conclusion: A Make-Ahead Dessert That Never Disappoints
Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that combines sweet strawberries, moist vanilla cake, and creamy whipped topping into one unforgettable slice. Whether you’re making it for a party, summer picnic, or family dinner, this cake is effortless to prepare and always a hit.
It’s the kind of recipe that brings smiles to the table and becomes a go-to in your dessert rotation. So grab your cake mix, whip up that Jell-O, and let the sweet nostalgia of strawberry shortcake meet the convenience of a poke cake!