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Easy Classic Jello Poke Cake Recipe

A moist slice of jello poke cake showing colorful gelatin pieces inside a yellow cake base, topped with white frosting.

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You can make this incredibly moist and colorful Jello Poke Cake using a simple box mix and gelatin. It is a fun, easy gelatin dessert perfect for potlucks or any party.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, water)
  • 1 package (3 oz) of your favorite flavor Jello (e.g., Strawberry Jello for a fruity favorite)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (Cool Whip topping dessert)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cake according to the package directions, typically mixing the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water.
  2. Bake the cake in a 9×13 inch baking pan. Let it cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes after removing it from the oven.
  3. While the cake is still warm, use the handle end of a wooden spoon or a large fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Make the holes deep, going almost to the bottom of the pan.
  4. Prepare the Jello according to the package directions, but use only 1 cup of boiling water and 1 cup of cold water instead of the amounts listed on the package. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
  5. Slowly and evenly pour the liquid Jello mixture over the entire surface of the warm cake, making sure the liquid seeps into all the poked holes.
  6. Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 to 4 hours, or until the Jello is completely set.
  7. Once the cake is chilled and the Jello is firm, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake.
  8. Chill the cake again until you are ready to serve. Slice and enjoy this moist poke cake!

Notes

  • For a festive Christmas dessert, use red and green Jello flavors (like Strawberry and Lime) and pour them alternately into the holes for a colorful sheet cake effect.
  • If you want an extra creamy topping, you can mix the whipped topping with 4 ounces of softened cream cheese before spreading it on the cake.
  • This recipe works well with any flavor of boxed cake mix, but white or yellow cake mixes are best for showing off the bright Jello colors.

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