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Cherry Poke Cake Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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