Description
Bright, tangy, and sweet, this Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake captures the refreshing flavors of strawberry lemonade in a moist lemon cake infused with strawberry gelatin. Topped with creamy lemon pudding whipped topping and fresh strawberries, this easy-to-make dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you crave a fruity, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
1 (15.25-ounce) package lemon cake mix
2 cups water, divided
3 large eggs
⅓ cup vegetable oil
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 (3-ounce) package strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
¼ cup cold water
½ cup milk
1 (3.4-ounce) package instant lemon pudding mix
1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
Whole or sliced strawberries (optional garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
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In a large bowl, combine lemon cake mix, 1 cup water, eggs, oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat on low speed until moistened; increase to medium and beat 2 minutes. Pour batter into prepared pan.
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Bake 21–26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and set aside.
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Meanwhile, bring 1 cup water to boil in a saucepan. Stir in strawberry gelatin mix until dissolved. Add ¼ cup cold water and mix.
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Poke holes all over warm cake using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour gelatin mixture over cake, letting it soak into holes. Refrigerate at least 1 hour to cool and set.
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Whisk milk and lemon pudding mix until slightly thickened. Fold in whipped topping gently until combined.
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Spread lemon pudding topping evenly over cooled cake. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired. Keep refrigerated until serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free lemon cake mix for a gluten-free version.
- Substitute almond milk and coconut whipped cream for dairy-free options.
- Add mixed berries or experiment with different gelatin flavors for variety.
- Store refrigerated up to 3 days; best served chilled.
- Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time:: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
