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Jello Poke Cake Recipe

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4.3 from 14 reviews

This vibrant Jello Poke Cake combines the light, fluffy texture of a white cake with the fruity bursts of black cherry and lime gelatin, creating a colorful, refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. Each cake layer is poked to allow the jello to seep through, resulting in a moist and flavorful treat finished with a creamy whipped topping.

  • Total Time: 42 minutes plus overnight chilling
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Cake

  • 15.25 ounces white cake mix
  • Ingredients as required on cake mix box (typically eggs, oil, water)

Gelatin

  • 3 ounces black cherry gelatin powder
  • 3 ounces lime gelatin powder
  • 2 cups hot boiling water (1 cup per gelatin flavor)

Topping

  • 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

  1. Prepare and bake the cake: In a large bowl, prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions, including required ingredients such as eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter evenly into round cake pans and bake as directed, usually at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
  2. Poke the cake layers: Once cooled, use the wide end of a chopstick to poke holes evenly across the surface of each cake layer. Push the chopstick all the way through to the bottom, making multiple holes to allow the gelatin to seep through the cake.
  3. Prepare the gelatin: Divide the gelatin powders into two separate bowls – one with black cherry and the other with lime gelatin powder. Pour 1 cup of hot boiling water into each bowl and stir until the gelatin completely dissolves. Let both gelatin mixtures cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Pour gelatin into cakes: Using a tablespoon, carefully pour the black cherry gelatin over one round cake layer, allowing it to fill the holes, and pour the lime gelatin over the second round cake in the same manner. Be gentle to avoid disturbing the cake structure.
  5. Refrigerate to set: Cover the gelatin-poked cakes with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the gelatin to fully set within the cake layers, ensuring a moist and flavorful texture.
  6. Assemble and frost: At least one hour before serving, stack the two gelatin-infused cake layers and spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the entire cake. Return the cake to the refrigerator until ready to serve.
  7. Storage: Keep the cake refrigerated and store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure the cakes are completely cooled before poking and pouring gelatin to avoid melting the gelatin.
  • You can modify the flavors by using different gelatin types, such as strawberry or orange.
  • Use a wide chopstick or a similar tool to make perfectly sized holes for the gelatin.
  • This cake is best served chilled and within 2-3 days for optimal texture and flavor.
  • To speed up gelatin setting, you may refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours instead of overnight, but overnight is recommended.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian