Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious, look no further than the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake. This recipe transforms the beloved classic into a luscious sheet cake filled with sweet strawberry goodness in every bite. With its vibrant layers of juicy berries, cloud-like whipped topping, and fluffy cake, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself making for every spring and summer event—trust me, friends will ask for the recipe before they even finish their first slice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this cake is that you don’t need a complicated pantry to create something spectacular. Each ingredient is chosen to bring its own flavor, texture, and a burst of cheerful color to the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake. Let’s break down why each is truly essential:

• White cake mix: A simple shortcut that bakes up soft, fluffy, and perfectly receptive to all that luscious strawberry filling.
• Strawberry pie filling: Delivers the bright, sweet tang everybody craves, multitasking as the filling that soaks into the cake for ultimate moistness.
• Eggs, oil, and water (as called for by cake mix): The trio that gives your cake structure and richness—just follow the box directions.
• Whipped topping (thawed): Makes a dreamy, creamy “frosting” that keeps things light and balances out the fruity sweetness.
• Fresh strawberries (sliced): The sparkle on top—perfect for extra berry flavor, gorgeous presentation, and just the right touch of freshness.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Perfect Cake

Preheat your oven and prepare your trusty 9×13-inch pan, then whip up the white cake mix exactly as the package instructs. Let it bake until a toothpick comes out clean, then set it aside to cool completely. This gives the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake its light foundation and makes sure everything soaks in just right!

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Once your cake has cooled, grab the handle of a thin wooden spoon and gently poke holes all over the surface, about an inch apart. These little wells are where the magic happens—think of them like sweet secret tunnels that will soon be filled with strawberry flavor.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Pie Filling

Spoon that vibrant strawberry pie filling right over the cake. Use a rubber spatula to spread it out, gently pressing the filling so it seeps into every hole. This is what turns a simple cake into a Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, ensuring each bite is packed with juicy strawberry jamminess!

Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping

Next, spread a generous layer of whipped topping across the entire cake. This creamy cloud not only locks in all that berry moisture, but gives the dessert a delightfully light bite. Pop the whole cake into the fridge so it can chill and the flavors meld together—just an hour will do wonders.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Strawberries

When it’s time to serve, layer your sliced strawberries artistically on top of the cake. The fresh fruit adds a pop of color and the perfect sweet-tart finishing note. Slice, serve, and let the compliments roll in!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Garnishes

Take your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake to the next level by showering it with even more sliced strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a few sprigs of fresh mint right before serving. If you’re feeling extra festive, a drizzle of homemade strawberry sauce will wow everyone at your table.

Side Dishes

Since this cake steals the show with its sweet strawberry burst, I recommend keeping things simple on the side. Pair it with a creamy vanilla bean ice cream or a tall glass of cold milk. If you’re hosting brunch, some fresh berries and a pot of coffee round things out beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to turn your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake into individual treats? Try cutting the cake into cubes and layering them in clear glasses with whipped topping and strawberries for easy, grab-and-go parfaits. Or use a fun-shaped cookie cutter to offer charming, bite-sized portions at your next party!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake keeps surprisingly well. Cover your pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftover slices into an airtight container, then store in the fridge for up to three days. The cake will actually get even more flavorful as the strawberry filling works its magic overnight.

Freezing

For longer storage, the base cake (with filling, but without whipped topping or fresh strawberries) can be frozen for up to two months. Simply wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, then add the topping and fresh berries before enjoying.

Reheating

This Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer, let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and enhance the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use homemade strawberry pie filling instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade strawberry pie filling adds an authentic, deeply fruity flavor. Just be sure to use enough to fill all those delightful poke holes in the cake.

What type of whipped topping works best?

Store-bought whipped topping like Cool Whip is a classic and holds up really well, but you can substitute homemade stabilized whipped cream for a richer texture, especially if you plan to serve immediately.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes! A vanilla or even yellow cake mix is a tasty swap and still pairs beautifully with the strawberry filling. Just avoid flavors that might overpower the delicate fruit taste.

How do I prevent the cake from getting soggy?

Make sure the cake is fully cooled before adding the pie filling, and refrigerate promptly after adding the whipped topping. These steps help the cake stay moist but not soggy.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Not as written, but you can easily swap in a gluten-free white cake mix and follow all the same steps for a gluten-free Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake that everyone can enjoy!

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistible about the combination of tender cake, sweet strawberries, and light whipped topping—all layered up in the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake. It’s the kind of dessert that deserves a special spot on your table for birthdays, BBQs, or just because. Give it a whirl, and you might find it becomes your new favorite, too!

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