Cherry Poke Cake Recipe
Introduction
Cherry Poke Cake is a delightful, refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. Moist white cake soaked with cherry gelatin, topped with cool whipped cream and sweet cherry pie filling makes every bite a burst of fruity flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix (including ingredients required on box)
- 1 (3 ounce) box cherry gelatin
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions and bake as directed.
- Step 2: While the cake is baking, dissolve the cherry gelatin in 1 1/2 cups of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Step 3: When the cake is done, allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, use a wooden skewer or large meat fork to poke holes evenly all over the cake.
- Step 4: Pour the dissolved gelatin slowly over the entire cake, letting it seep into the holes and soak throughout.
- Step 5: Let the cake cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top.
- Step 6: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the layer of Cool Whip for a beautiful and tasty topping.
- Step 7: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and the gelatin to set.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of cherry liqueur to the gelatin mixture before pouring over the cake.
- Try using fresh cherries or other fruit toppings like blueberries or raspberries for variety.
- If you prefer, use homemade white cake instead of the box mix for a more personal touch.
- Make sure the cake is warm but not hot when poking and adding gelatin to ensure even absorption.
Storage
Store the cherry poke cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the firmness of the gelatin and freshness of the toppings. When ready to serve, slice and enjoy cold; reheating is not recommended.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Yes, you can experiment with other gelatin flavors like strawberry or raspberry to change up the taste, but cherry pairs best with the cherry pie filling.
What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
You can use homemade whipped cream or any store-bought whipped topping as a substitute. Just make sure it is thawed and spreadable.
PrintCherry Poke Cake Recipe
Cherry Poke Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring a moist white cake infused with cherry gelatin. The cake is punctured to let the cherry-flavored gelatin soak in, creating a flavorful and juicy texture. Topped with whipped topping and luscious cherry pie filling, this cake is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat any time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients required on box)
Gelatin Mixture
- 1 box cherry gelatin (3 ounces)
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
Topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Prepare the white cake mix according to the instructions on the box, including all required ingredients. Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan and bake as directed on the box until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Dissolve Gelatin: While the cake is baking or cooling, dissolve the cherry gelatin powder into 1 1/2 cups of boiling water. Stir well until completely dissolved.
- Poke Holes in Cake: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes after baking, so it’s warm but not hot. Using a wooden skewer or large meat fork, poke holes evenly all over the baked cake surface. These holes help the gelatin soak in deeply for flavor infusion.
- Pour Gelatin Over Cake: Carefully pour the dissolved cherry gelatin evenly over the surface of the cake, allowing it to seep through the holes and infuse the cake layers.
- Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely to set the gelatin fully. Placing it in the refrigerator at this point works best.
- Add Toppings: Once cool, spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake. Then spoon the cherry pie filling generously over the whipped topping.
- Refrigerate: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to chill.
Notes
- Use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly and deeply enough to reach the bottom layers for maximum gelatin absorption.
- Ensure the cake is warm but not hot when pouring gelatin to prevent melting the gelatin too quickly.
- For a firmer topping, chill the Cool Whip before spreading.
- This cake is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling crushed nuts or shredded coconut on top along with the cherries.
Keywords: Cherry poke cake, cherry gelatin cake, poke cake, easy cake recipe, chilled dessert, white cake with cherry topping
