Introduction
Get ready to be swept away by the delightful flavors of this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake! This luscious dessert brings together the moist goodness of a vanilla cake with a burst of sweet strawberry flavor. It’s the perfect treat for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy night in. With its creamy topping and fresh strawberry slices, this cake is not only a feast for the palate but also a joy for the eyes. Let’s embark on this sweet journey together!
Ingredients
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Additional whipped topping for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your 9×13-inch baking dish ready by greasing and flouring it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat everything together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and velvety.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake according to the package instructions, usually around 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen!
- While the cake is cooling, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and strawberry puree in a separate bowl until well combined.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, take the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the top of the cake. This step is crucial for allowing the strawberry mixture to seep in.
- Pour the strawberry mixture evenly over the top of the cake, encouraging it to fill every hole. It’s going to be deliciously colorful!
- Let the cake cool completely. Once cool, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, crown the cake with a generous layer of whipped topping and scatter the sliced strawberries on top. For a touch of elegance, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes or Tips
For an extra fruity punch, consider adding some diced strawberries directly into the batter before baking! You can also use a mix of frozen strawberries and fresh ones for garnishing if fresh ones aren’t available.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes simple baking techniques and a fun poke method to infuse flavor. Remember, the key to a moist cake is not overbaking it. Using a toothpick to check for doneness ensures your cake stays soft and spongy. Additionally, letting the cake soak up the creamy strawberry mixture overnight elevates the flavors to new heights.
FAQ
Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like lemon or chocolate. Just remember to match your toppings to your cake choice.
How do I store leftovers?
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing bite!
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this poke cake.
Conclusion
There you have it—a gorgeous, mouthwatering Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Whether it’s a summer gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a sweet treat on a regular day, this lovely dessert is bound to bring smiles all around. So, gather your ingredients and let the baking begin! Enjoy every slice of this delightful creation!