Gelatin Poke Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A light and fluffy poke cake infused with raspberry jell-o flavor, topped with whipped cream for a delightful dessert perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. white cake mix
  • 1 sm. pkg. instant vanilla pudding
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 c. water
  • 1/4 c. oil
  • 1 sm. pkg. Raspberry Jell-O
  • Dream Whip or Cool Whip

Instructions

  1. Combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, water, and oil and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
  2. Pour batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13 inch pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes.
  4. Dissolve raspberry Jell-O as directed on the package.
  5. Allow the cake to cool slightly, then poke holes in the cake surface.
  6. Pour the dissolved Jell-O over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
  7. Chill the cake for at least 4 hours to set the Jell-O.
  8. Frost the chilled cake with Dream Whip or Cool Whip before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, you can substitute half the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a different flavor, swap Raspberry Jell-O with Strawberry or Cherry for a unique twist. Make sure to let the cake cool properly before poking holes, as this allows the gelatin to absorb better, ensuring every bite is flavorful. For a creamier topping, blend the Dream Whip with a touch of vanilla extract.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Gelatin Poke Cake chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of grated chocolate or toasted coconut on top. This cake also complements a light afternoon tea or can be served alongside other American recipes like Pink Gelatin Salad for a colorful dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Gelatin Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the topping from becoming soggy, frost only the portions you plan to serve. If you need to reheat, do so in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly warm the cake, but serve it cold for the best texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Gelatin Poke Cake contains roughly 252 calories, with 2g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.

252 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 11.6g 15% DV
Carbs 35.8g 13% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 4.9g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 147.9mg 6% DV
Potassium 213.1mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 53.4mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 16.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 2.1mg 2% DV
Calcium 72.5mg 6% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can experiment with any flavor of cake mix, such as lemon or chocolate, to create a different taste profile. Just ensure that the Jell-O flavor complements the cake mix chosen for the best overall flavor combination.

How long should I let the cake cool before adding Jell-O?

It’s best to let the cake cool for about 15-20 minutes after baking before poking holes and adding the dissolved Jell-O. This prevents the Jell-O from running off and ensures it seeps into the cake properly.

Can I prepare this cake in advance?

Yes, Gelatin Poke Cake is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing it to chill overnight in the refrigerator, which will enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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