Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1 cup water; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tub whipped topping (8 oz); Additional sliced strawberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Dessert Corner

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake for gatherings and family occasions. The combination of moist cake, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped topping always makes it a hit. I find that the technique of poking holes in the cake allows the strawberry sauce to seep in, creating a deliciously infused dessert that feels indulgent yet light. It's the perfect ending to any meal and truly brings a sense of celebration to the table!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:37:39.897Z

When I first tried making a poke cake, I wasn't sure how it would turn out. However, once I poured the strawberry sauce over the holes, I realized how magical it was to see all those flavors blend together. The key is to let the cake chill after adding the sauce, so every bite is soaked with strawberry goodness. I’ve also tried adding a hint of vanilla to the whipped topping, which really elevates the flavor.

Sharing this cake with friends and family never fails to bring smiles. It’s so easy to whip up that I often make it for potlucks or BBQs. I recommend using fresh strawberries for the sauce, as they offer the best flavor and texture. It’s a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any season!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy strawberries complement the moist cake perfectly
Decadently rich yet light with whipped cream topping
An eye-catching dessert that's easy to make for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

When it comes to baking the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Using a box vanilla cake mix saves time and still results in a moist cake. It's essential to follow the package instructions for the best texture; for example, ensure the eggs are at room temperature, as this helps create a uniform batter. If you’re looking for a homemade twist, you can swap the box mix for a homemade vanilla cake using basic pantry staples.

The strawberry sauce is key in this recipe, and using fresh strawberries elevates the dessert with vibrant flavor. Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries as they will require less sugar to create the sauce. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you could use frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess liquid from watering down your sauce.

Mastering the Poke Technique

The art of poking the cake is what distinguishes a poke cake from a standard one, allowing the strawberry sauce to permeate deeply and infuse every bite with flavor. When your cake comes out of the oven, let it rest for only 10 minutes before poking; this limit keeps the cake warm enough for the sauce to absorb efficiently. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to create holes about every 1 inch apart, ensuring that the sauce reaches every corner of the cake.

After you pour the strawberry sauce over the cake, gently spread it with a spatula to ensure it seeps into the holes effectively. If you notice the surface doesn't absorb well, it might mean the cake is a bit too firm. In that case, consider poking a few extra holes to help the sauce integrate further into the cake.

Serving and Storing Your Cake

For the best flavor and texture experience, serve your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake chilled after it has spent at least an hour in the fridge. The whipped topping firms up in the cold, creating a delightful contrast to the moist cake and juicy strawberries. Consider serving it with a drizzle of extra strawberry sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture. Personal touches like fresh mint leaves can make the presentation even more appealing.

If you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. This cake freezes well, too. Just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for a refreshing treat. Note that the whipped topping may lose some fluffiness upon freezing, but the flavor stays intact.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 box vanilla cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil

For the Strawberry Sauce

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping

1 tub whipped topping (8 oz)
Additional sliced strawberries for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the vanilla cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil according to package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Make the Strawberry Sauce

While the cake is baking, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let it sit for about 15 minutes until the strawberries release their juices, creating a sauce.

Poke the Cake

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface of the cake.

Add Strawberry Sauce

Pour the strawberry sauce evenly over the cake, ensuring it gets into the holes. Allow the cake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Add Topping

After chilling, spread the whipped topping over the cake. Garnish with additional sliced strawberries if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the strawberry sauce.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake by experimenting with different fruits. Blueberries and raspberries can provide delightful flavors that pair beautifully with the vanilla cake base. For a tropical twist, consider using crushed pineapple or diced mango in place of strawberries, adjusting the sugar level based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

You can also switch up the topping; try a cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor profile. Just blend an 8 oz package of cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 cup whipped topping for a delicious alternative, balancing the sweetness of the cake with a tangy finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake doesn't rise as expected, double-check that your baking powder in the cake mix is fresh and that you’ve followed the instructions correctly regarding temperatures and mixers. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, while undermixing can leave pockets of dry mix. Aim for a smooth batter without overworking it.

If excess liquid appears on top after adding the sauce, it usually indicates either too much sugar was used or that the strawberries were overly juicy. Use less sugar next time and allow the sauce to thicken for a short time before pouring it over the cake to achieve a more consistent texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries are recommended for best flavor and texture.

→ How long can I store the cake?

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake tastes even better the day after it's made, as the flavors meld.

→ Is it possible to use a different type of fruit?

Yes! Feel free to use other fruits like blueberries or peaches for a different twist.