Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

$To make a great strawberry shortcake poke cake, you need these main ingredients: - 1 box of vanilla cake mix - 3 large eggs - 1 cup water - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup sweetened condensed milk - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced - 1 ½ cups whipped cream (store-bought or homemade) These ingredients create a moist cake that is perfect for soaking up the creamy mixture. You will need a few tools to make this cake. Here’s what I recommend: - Large mixing bowl - Electric mixer - 9x13 inch baking dish - Wooden spoon or skewer - Whisk - Wire rack These tools help you mix, bake, and prepare the cake easily. To make your cake extra special, consider these optional garnishes: - Fresh mint leaves - Extra strawberries for decoration - A drizzle of strawberry syrup Garnishes add color and flavor, making your cake look and taste amazing. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix the vanilla cake mix, eggs, and water. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for two minutes. You want the batter to be smooth and well combined. Pour the batter into the greased dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check if it's done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important so your cake can soak up the flavors later. Once the cake is cool, take a wooden spoon handle or a skewer. Poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart. This allows the cream mixture to soak in. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour this mixture over the poked cake. Make sure to fill all the holes. Let the cake soak for at least 30 minutes. For best results, let it soak overnight in the fridge. This will make your cake super moist and flavorful. To start, always use fresh ingredients. This step matters a lot. Use a good-quality vanilla cake mix for the best taste. Follow the instructions on the box. Mix the batter well for a fluffy cake. I recommend using an electric mixer. It saves time and ensures even mixing. Make sure your oven is preheated. This way, your cake will bake evenly. Grease and flour your baking dish well. This will help the cake come out clean. After baking, let your cake cool. Use a wooden spoon to poke holes in the cake. Space the holes about one inch apart. Pour the cream mixture slowly over the cake. This allows the cake to soak up all the flavor. For best results, let it soak for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let it soak overnight. The longer it sits, the better the flavor. When it's time to serve, keep it simple and pretty. Cut the cake into squares. Place each piece on a plate. Add a drizzle of strawberry syrup for extra sweetness. Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. For a nice touch, add mint leaves on top. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your cake chilled; it tastes best that way! Pro Tips Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. They enhance the overall taste of your poke cake. Soaking Time Matters: Allow the cake to soak in the cream mixture for at least 30 minutes, but overnight soaking yields a more flavorful result. Make It a Day Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Whipped Cream Alternatives: If you're short on time, store-bought whipped cream works well, but homemade whipped cream adds a special touch. {{image_2}} You can switch up the cake flavor for your poke cake. Instead of vanilla, try a lemon or chocolate cake mix. Lemon adds a bright twist, while chocolate gives a rich taste. Both options work well with the creamy filling and fresh fruit. When you change the cake flavor, remember to adjust your toppings. A lemon cake pairs nicely with blueberries, while chocolate goes great with raspberries. Strawberries are sweet and delicious, but other fruits can shine, too! You can use blueberries, blackberries, or peaches. Mix and match your favorites for a fun treat. If you want a tropical vibe, consider adding pineapple or mango. Just make sure the fruit is fresh for the best flavor. You can even create a fruit medley for a colorful finish. Making a vegan or gluten-free poke cake is easy! For a vegan version, use a plant-based cake mix. Replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed. For gluten-free, choose a gluten-free cake mix. Both options taste great and keep the cake moist. The filling can be made with coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan delight. Enjoy all the flavors without the guilt! To keep your strawberry shortcake poke cake fresh, use an airtight container. Place the cake in the fridge to prevent it from drying out. If you have whipped cream on top, cover it loosely with plastic wrap. This keeps the cream fluffy and prevents it from sticking. You can freeze the cake for later use. First, cut it into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This helps keep out air and moisture. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. The cake lasts about three to four days in the fridge. To ensure the best taste, eat it within this time. If you notice any off smells or changes in texture, it’s best to discard it. Always check for freshness before serving. Enjoy your cake while it’s still at its best! A poke cake is a fun dessert. You bake a cake, then poke holes in it. You pour a sweet mixture over the cake. This lets the flavors soak in. It makes the cake moist and tasty. Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them first. Drain any extra juice to keep the cake from getting soggy. Fresh strawberries are great, but frozen ones work well too. You can keep the cake in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. You now have all the steps to make a delicious strawberry shortcake poke cake. We covered the main ingredients, tools, and optional garnishes. I shared easy instructions for baking and soaking the cake. Plus, I provided tips to help you get it just right and fun variations to try. Don't forget how to store leftovers or tips on freezing. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings. This cake is tasty and simple for all occasions. You’re set to impress your friends and family with your new dessert skills!$

Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

A delightful and moist poke cake filled with strawberries and cream.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1 30

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

1 box vanilla cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1.5 cups whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
to taste fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, and water. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cake is cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Slowly pour the cream mixture over the poked cake, making sure to fill the holes. Allow the cake to soak for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
After the cake has soaked, spread a layer of whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake.
Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the whipped cream, adding as many as you like for a vibrant presentation.
Optionally, add fresh mint leaves as a garnish for a touch of color and flavor.

Notes

Serve chilled in squares with a drizzle of strawberry syrup on the plate for added flair.

Keyword cake, dessert, poke cake, strawberry