Cherry Poke Cake Recipe

Introduction

Cherry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines moist white cake with a sweet cherry gelatin and juicy pie filling. It’s topped with fluffy Cool Whip, making it perfect for family gatherings or a simple treat any day.

Ingredients

• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box)
• 1 3-ounce box cherry gelatin
• 1 1/2 cups boiling water
• 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)
• 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the white cake mix according to the instructions on the box and bake as directed. Once done, let the cake cool for a few minutes.
2. Step 2: While the cake is baking, dissolve the cherry gelatin in 1 1/2 cups boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
3. Step 3: Using a wooden skewer or a large meat fork, poke holes all over the slightly cooled cake to allow the gelatin to seep in.
4. Step 4: Pour the dissolved gelatin evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the holes. Let the cake cool completely to set the gelatin.
5. Step 5: Once cooled, spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake.
6. Step 6: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the Cool Whip layer, distributing the cherries evenly.
7. Step 7: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and the cake to chill well.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cake batter before baking.
• Use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling for a fresher taste and texture.
• Substitute Cool Whip with whipped cream for a less processed topping.
• If you prefer a stronger cherry flavor, add an additional half box of cherry gelatin.

Storage

Store the cherry poke cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin and Cool Whip topping maintain their texture best when chilled. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the consistency. When ready to serve, simply slice and enjoy cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake instead of a boxed mix?

Yes, a homemade white cake or yellow cake recipe works well as a base for this poke cake.

How do I make sure the gelatin soaks evenly into the cake?

Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the cake before pouring the gelatin. Pour the gelatin slowly and evenly, allowing it time to seep into each hole.

Cherry Poke Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 79 reviews

This Cherry Poke Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring a moist white cake infused with cherry gelatin and topped with sweet cherry pie filling and fluffy Cool Whip. The cake’s unique poke method allows the cherry gelatin to seep deep into the cake, creating a beautiful and flavorful treat perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake Ingredients

• 1 box white cake mix (with required ingredients as per box instructions)

Gelatin Mixture

• 1 (3 ounce) box cherry gelatin
• 1 1/2 cups boiling water

Toppings

• 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
• 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake: Follow the instructions on the white cake mix box to prepare the batter by adding the required ingredients (usually eggs, oil, and water). Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake as directed on the box until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Dissolve the Gelatin: While the cake is baking, dissolve the cherry gelatin powder in 1 1/2 cups of boiling water, stirring well until completely dissolved.
3. Poke the Cake: Once the cake is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes. Use a wooden skewer or a large meat fork to poke holes all over the entire surface of the cake, creating spaces for the gelatin to seep in.
4. Add Gelatin to Cake: Slowly pour the dissolved cherry gelatin evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes created with the skewer or fork. Allow the cake to cool completely so the gelatin sets within the cake.
5. Add Toppings: After the cake is fully cooled, spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly on top. Then spoon the cherry pie filling over the Cool Whip layer to finish the cake.
6. Chill the Cake: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the cake to set before serving.

Notes

• Use a baking pan size recommended on the cake mix box, typically 9×13 inches.
• For best results, let the cake cool sufficiently before poking and pouring the gelatin to avoid it sinking too deep or pooling excessively.
• Chilling the cake overnight enhances flavor melding and texture.
• You may substitute fresh cherries or other fruit toppings if preferred.
• This recipe is perfect for potlucks, parties, or as a refreshing dessert on warm days.

Keywords: Cherry poke cake, cherry gelatin cake, poke cake recipe, easy cherry dessert, white cake with cherry gelatin