Strawberry Poke Cake

Strawberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a moist cake base. It’s perfect for any occasion, from Valentine’s Day celebrations to summer barbecues. This cake stands out not only for its vibrant flavor but also for its eye-catching appearance and easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging yourself, this Strawberry Poke Cake is sure to impress everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of strawberry cake and sweetened condensed milk creates a rich, moist dessert that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is or dress it up with toppings like whipped cream, sprinkles, or fresh strawberries for extra flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a summer treat, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight, making it great for prep in advance.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Strawberry Poke Cake effortlessly, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having the right tools will simplify the baking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9 x 13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9 x 13 inch baking pan: This size ensures even baking and provides ample space for the poke cake to rise properly.
• Electric mixer: While optional, using an electric mixer can save time when whipping the cream to stiff peaks.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for poking holes in the cake without damaging it while allowing the sweetened condensed milk mixture to soak in.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 15.25 ounce strawberry cake mix (Made according to package directions)
• 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
• 11.75 ounce strawberry topping (it’s by the ice cream toppings in the grocery store)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 2 Tbsp sugar

For Garnish

• Sprinkles, chocolate curls, strawberries, etc.

How to Make Strawberry Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Make and bake the cake in a 9 x 13 pan according to directions on the box. Ensure it is perfectly baked before proceeding.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk with 11.75 ounces of strawberry topping. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Poke Holes in the Cake

While the cake is still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes in it every inch across its surface. This allows the topping mixture to seep into the cake.

Step 4: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk Mixture

Pour your sweetened condensed milk mixture over the warm cake. Make sure it fills all holes generously so that every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Cool Down

Allow your cake to cool completely at room temperature before adding whipped cream on top.

Step 6: Whip Cream

In another mixing bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped topping over your cooled cake evenly.

Step 7: Garnish

Garnish as desired with sprinkles, chocolate curls, or fresh strawberries for an added touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Step 8: Chill

Refrigerate your Strawberry Poke Cake for at least two hours before serving. For best results, let it sit overnight; many find that this enhances its flavor!

Step 9: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to three days. Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Poke Cake

Strawberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, here are some ideas for serving this refreshing cake.

Classic Slice

• Serve a simple slice of Strawberry Poke Cake on its own to enjoy its rich flavors and textures.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Add fresh strawberry slices on top of each piece for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

A La Mode

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess pairs perfectly with the strawberry flavors.

Garnished with Whipped Cream

• For an indulgent touch, garnish your serving with additional whipped cream. It adds lightness and enhances the cake’s overall taste.

Drizzled Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the top for a delicious contrast between the fruity cake and the rich chocolate.

Festive Sprinkles

• Add colorful sprinkles on top for fun and flair, making it perfect for parties or festive occasions.

How to Perfect Strawberry Poke Cake

To ensure you create the best Strawberry Poke Cake, follow these essential tips for success. These small adjustments can make a big difference in taste and presentation.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality strawberries and fresh whipping cream to enhance the flavor of your cake.
• Poke Holes Generously: Make sure to poke holes deep enough so that the sweetened condensed milk mixture seeps into every part of the cake.
• Chill Properly: Allow your cake to refrigerate for at least two hours, but overnight chilling will improve the flavor even more.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to mix up garnishes like nuts, coconut flakes, or different fruits to customize your cake.
• Check for Doneness: Always check your cake for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean when baked properly.
• Layer Flavors: Consider adding layers of strawberry jam or extra fruit puree in between layers if you’re feeling adventurous!

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Poke Cake

When serving Strawberry Poke Cake, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits will add freshness and balance the sweetness of the cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements dessert well.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese paired with crackers to contrast the sweetness.
4. Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade provides a refreshing tartness that pairs beautifully with sweet desserts.
5. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae station where guests can create their own sundaes alongside slices of cake.
6. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate makes for an excellent snack alongside this sweet dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes is key to perfecting your Strawberry Poke Cake. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Ignoring the Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding toppings is crucial. If you skip this step, the whipped cream can melt and slide right off.
• Not Poking Enough Holes: Be generous when poking holes in the cake. If you don’t poke enough holes, the sweetened condensed milk won’t soak in well, leaving parts of the cake dry.
• Using Room Temperature Cream: It’s essential to use cold heavy whipping cream for optimal whipping. Room temperature cream won’t achieve stiff peaks as easily.
• Overmixing the Cake Batter: When preparing your cake mix, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light, fluffy cake.
• Skipping Garnish: While not mandatory, adding sprinkles or fresh strawberries enhances both flavor and presentation. Neglecting this can make your cake look less appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Poke Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Poke Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat. Cover and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Poke Cake?

Strawberry Poke Cake is a light and fluffy dessert made with strawberry cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped cream topping. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!

Can I customize my Strawberry Poke Cake?

Absolutely! You can add different fruit toppings or use various cake mixes like vanilla or chocolate for unique flavors.

How do I make my Strawberry Poke Cake more festive?

Consider adding seasonal decorations like sprinkles, edible glitter, or even themed fruit shapes that match any celebration!

How long does it take to make Strawberry Poke Cake?

The total time from preparation to serving is about 35 minutes, but it’s recommended to refrigerate it for at least 2 hours for best flavor.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Poke Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with various toppings and flavors to suit any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or enjoying a summer BBQ, this cake is sure to impress. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!