Red, White & Blue Poke Cake

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Author: Catherine
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Red, White & Blue Poke Cake decorated for a festive celebration

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Red, White & Blue Poke Cake

Red, White & Blue Poke Cake captures the essence of celebration and festivity with each vibrant slice. This delicious dessert is a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds, bursting with fruity flavors that evoke the spirit of summer gatherings and patriotic holidays. Imagine a moist vanilla cake, infused with tantalizing cherry and blueberry flavors, topped with a luscious layer of whipped cream and sprinkled with festive accents. It’s a refreshing indulgence that is just perfect for Fourth of July picnics, birthday parties, or any occasion that calls for a dash of color and sweetness. This cake is definitely worth making for its stunning appearance and delightful flavor, and with my step-by-step guide, you can whip it up in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy Red, White & Blue Poke Cake recipe offers several benefits that make it an excellent choice for any home baker. Firstly, it requires minimal prep time, making it a hassle-free dessert option for those busy days. Families will love it, as the vibrant colors and fruity flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike. With the use of a box cake mix, the recipe is quick and straightforward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your gathering and less time in the kitchen. The gorgeous presentation, in red, white, and blue, makes it a perfect patriotic dessert that is sure to impress your guests.

For Red, White & Blue Poke Cake

To create this delightful Red, White & Blue Poke Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 white cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
  • 1 box (3 oz.) Berry Blue Jell-o
  • 1 box (3 oz.) Cherry Jell-o
  • 1 tub (8 oz.) whipped topping (thawed)
  • Optional: red & blue food coloring
  • Patriotic sprinkles

These ingredients work together to create a festive, flavorful dessert that’s as much fun to make as it is to eat! The cake mix provides a light, fluffy base, while the Jell-o adds a colorful and flavorful pop. The whipped topping creates a creamy layer that ties everything together beautifully.

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with the required ingredients until smooth and evenly blended. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

  2. Bake according to the box instructions, typically around 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and a toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.

  3. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool completely in the pan.

  4. When cooled, poke holes in the cake using a straw or the handle of a wooden spoon, creating a pattern of holes to allow the Jell-o to seep through.

  5. Prepare the Jell-o mixes according to the package instructions, but use slightly less cold water than directed for a more concentrated flavor.

  6. Pour the Berry Blue Jell-o over one half of the cake and then carefully pour the Cherry Jell-o over the other half. Make sure to let it seep into the holes for maximum flavor!

  7. Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 to 4 hours, or even overnight, to let the Jell-o firm up and set.

  8. Once chilled, take the cake out of the fridge and spread the whipped topping evenly over the top, creating a smooth and aesthetically pleasing layer.

  9. For a final touch, decorate with optional food coloring and patriotic sprinkles to give it that extra festive flair.

  10. Slice, serve, and watch your friends and family enjoy every colorful bite of this perfect summer dessert!

For Red, White & Blue Poke Cake

Follow these clear steps to create a show-stopping Red, White & Blue Poke Cake in no time. Each step has been crafted to ensure that the process is easy and fun, making this a perfect recipe for bakers of all skill levels. Enjoy the sensory experience of mixing, pouring, and decorating as you take your cake from ordinary to extraordinary.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some chef’s secrets to elevate your Red, White & Blue Poke Cake:

  • For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to your cake batter.
  • If you want a more intense color, you can add a few drops of red and blue food coloring to the whipped topping.
  • To make a more festive effect, use star-shaped sprinkles in addition to or instead of regular patriotic sprinkles.
  • Consider pairing the cake with fresh berries on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
  • If you’re not a fan of Jell-o, you can try using different fruit purees or syrups to soak the cake for an equally delicious outcome.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving your beautifully vibrant Red, White & Blue Poke Cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an indulgent treat. A side of fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, adds additional texture and flavor, further enhancing the cake’s fruity profile. For a truly festive experience, serve it on a red, white, and blue-themed dessert platter. It goes wonderfully with refreshing beverages such as lemonade or iced tea to keep the summer vibes alive.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in the delightful layers of the Red, White & Blue Poke Cake, it’s good to be mindful of the nutritional breakdown. A typical slice may contain around 280 calories, but this can vary based on portion size and the specific brands of ingredients used. There are indulgences here, but balancing your dessert with fresh fruit or enjoying it during a festive occasion can make it a pleasurable treat without the guilt.

Storing Tips & Variations For Red, White & Blue Poke Cake

To preserve the freshness of your Red, White & Blue Poke Cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake before adding the whipped topping. Wrap the cooled cake well in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. If you’d like to create variations, consider using different flavors of Jell-o, or try a lemon cake mix for a zesty touch. You can also experiment with adding layers of fruit between the cake and whipped topping for added texture.

Conclusion For Red, White & Blue Poke Cake

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to impress your guests at your next summer gathering, don’t wait to make this Red, White & Blue Poke Cake. With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and easy preparation, this cake is a must-try. Bring joy and sweetness to your celebrations, and see how every bite captures the spirit of fun and festivity. Treat yourself to this delightful dessert today!

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it’s stored properly in the refrigerator after preparing.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
You can use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix in place of the regular white cake mix for a gluten-free variation.

3. Can I use homemade Jell-o?
Absolutely, feel free to make homemade Jell-o for a more natural dessert. Follow similar ratios to achieve the right consistency.

4. How long does this cake last in the fridge?
The Red, White & Blue Poke Cake will last in the fridge for about 3-5 days if covered in an airtight container.

5. Can I add fresh fruit to the cake?
Yes! Adding fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries or blueberries on top of the whipped topping enhances both the flavor and presentation.

Print

Red, White & Blue Poke Cake

A vibrant and festive dessert bursting with fruity flavors, perfect for summer gatherings and patriotic holidays.

  • Author: catherine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 180 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 white cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
  • 1 box (3 oz.) Berry Blue Jell-o
  • 1 box (3 oz.) Cherry Jell-o
  • 1 tub (8 oz.) whipped topping (thawed)
  • Optional: red & blue food coloring
  • Patriotic sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with the required ingredients until smooth and evenly blended.
  3. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
  4. Bake according to the box instructions, around 25 to 30 minutes.
  5. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
  6. Poke holes in the cake using a straw or the handle of a wooden spoon.
  7. Prepare the Jell-o mixes according to the package instructions, using slightly less cold water.
  8. Pour the Berry Blue Jell-o over one half of the cake and the Cherry Jell-o over the other half, letting it seep into the holes.
  9. Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 to 4 hours, or overnight.
  10. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake.
  11. Decorate with optional food coloring and patriotic sprinkles.
  12. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cake batter or using different flavors of Jell-o.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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