Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Patriotic Poke Cake is the perfect treat for any celebration, especially when you’re looking to make a splash at a summer barbecue, Memorial Day, or the 4th of July. The cake itself is light and fluffy, infused with vibrant red, white, and blue colors, and topped with a creamy whipped topping. It’s not only visually stunning but bursting with delicious flavor. With a fun presentation and an easy-to-make process, this cake is sure to be the star of any occasion.

Ingredients

1 box of white cake mix (plus the ingredients called for on the box)
1 (3 oz) box of strawberry Jell-O
1 (3 oz) box of blueberry Jell-O
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
1 tub of whipped topping
Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Fresh blueberries, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the white cake according to the package instructions, baking it in a 9×13-inch pan. Let the cake cool completely, about 30 minutes.
Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
In separate bowls, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O and blueberry Jell-O in 1 cup of boiling water each. Once the Jell-O has dissolved, stir in 1 cup of cold water for each flavor.
Slowly pour the strawberry Jell-O mixture into the holes in the cake, then pour the blueberry Jell-O mixture into the remaining holes, alternating between the two colors to create a patriotic effect.
Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, allowing the Jell-O to set.
Once set, spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the cake.
Garnish with fresh strawberries and blueberries on top for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-15
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

You can use different flavors of Jell-O to match any theme. For example, orange and green for Halloween or pastel shades for Easter.
If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap out the whipped topping for a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut whipped cream.
Add a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for extra sweetness and moisture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: This cake is best served chilled, so there is no need to reheat. Just pull it out of the fridge before serving.

FAQs

How long should the cake be refrigerated?

The cake should be refrigerated for at least 2-3 hours to ensure the Jell-O fully sets.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?

Yes, you can make your own white cake from scratch, but a box mix saves time and ensures a soft, fluffy texture.

Can I use sugar-free Jell-O?

Yes, you can use sugar-free Jell-O, and it will still work well for the recipe.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh and flavorful.

Is there an alternative to whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream or even a non-dairy whipped topping if you have dietary preferences.

Can I add more layers of Jell-O?

While the cake can handle a bit more Jell-O, make sure to leave enough space for the whipped topping to cover the cake evenly.

Can I freeze this cake?

It’s not recommended to freeze this cake, as the whipped topping and Jell-O may not hold up well after thawing.

What other fruits can I use as a garnish?

Aside from strawberries and blueberries, raspberries, kiwi slices, or even blackberries would add a nice touch to the cake.

What size pan should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking pan works best for this recipe, allowing enough room for the Jell-O to soak into the cake.

Can I use different colored Jell-O for other holidays?

Absolutely! You can change the colors and flavors to fit any holiday, like green and red for Christmas or pink and purple for a baby shower.

Conclusion

This Patriotic Poke Cake is a delightful and colorful dessert that’s both fun and easy to make. Perfect for celebrating national holidays or any event that calls for a sweet and festive treat, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its vibrant colors, light texture, and creamy topping, it’s a dessert everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply want to treat your family and friends, this poke cake is a must-try!

Patriotic Poke Cake

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Celebrate the red, white, and blue with this easy Patriotic Poke Cake, perfect for any patriotic holiday like the 4th of July or Memorial Day. With a moist vanilla cake base, vibrant strawberry and blueberry jello, and topped with a fluffy whipped cream frosting, this festive cake is sure to be a crowd favorite!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (includes chilling time)
Yield: 12-15 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix (plus ingredients on the box)
1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored Jello
1 package (3 oz) blueberry-flavored Jello
2 cups boiling water
1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)
Fresh strawberries and blueberries for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Bake the Cake: Prepare the white cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan and allow it to cool completely.
Poke the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar tool to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
Prepare the Jello: In two separate bowls, dissolve the strawberry-flavored Jello in 1 cup of boiling water and the blueberry-flavored Jello in the other cup of boiling water. Stir each until completely dissolved.
Add the Jello to the Cake: Slowly pour the strawberry Jello into the holes on one side of the cake and the blueberry Jello into the other side. Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes, so the Jello sets into the cake.
Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake. If desired, garnish with fresh strawberries and blueberries for extra patriotism.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.

Notes

For an extra colorful effect, you can alternate the jello flavors and even add layers of whipped cream between the jello for a more festive look.
You can use homemade whipped cream if you prefer a lighter, less sweet topping.