Red White And Blue Poke Cake

This Red, White and Blue Poke Cake is a festive and colorful dessert perfect for patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or any celebration where you want to show off a little national pride. Made with a white cake base, vibrant red and blue gelatin, and topped with a creamy whipped topping, this cake is as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is not only visually stunning, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a dessert that looks like it came from a professional bakery. The poke cake technique ensures a moist, flavorful treat in every bite, and the cool whipped topping makes it perfect for warm-weather gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
• Red gelatin (strawberry or cherry flavor)
• Blue gelatin (berry blue flavor)
• Boiling water
• Cold water
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• Optional: fresh strawberries and blueberries for garnish

directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool slightly.
2. Once the cake is cool enough to touch but still slightly warm, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, spaced about an inch apart.
3. Prepare each gelatin flavor separately by dissolving each in 1 cup of boiling water, then stirring in 1/2 cup of cold water.
4. Carefully pour the red gelatin over one half of the cake and the blue gelatin over the other half, ensuring the liquid goes into the holes.
5. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let the gelatin set.
6. Once set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.
7. Garnish with fresh strawberries and blueberries if desired.
8. Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This Red, White and Blue Poke Cake yields about 12 to 15 servings. It takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to bake, and 2 hours to chill, making the total time just under 3 hours.

Variations

• Use vanilla or butter cake instead of white cake for a richer flavor.
• Swap out whipped topping for homemade whipped cream.
• Add a layer of cream cheese beneath the whipped topping for more texture and tang.
• Make it a tricolor sheet cake by layering red, white, and blue cake batters before baking instead of using gelatin.
• Use sugar-free gelatin and light whipped topping for a lower-calorie version.

storage/reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because of the whipped topping and gelatin, freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture. This cake is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a baked cake that’s poked with holes after baking, allowing liquids like pudding or gelatin to seep in and flavor the inside of the cake.

Can I use homemade cake instead of box mix?

Yes, you can substitute a homemade white cake recipe if you prefer not to use a boxed mix.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. This cake is perfect for making a day in advance since it needs time to chill.

What kind of gelatin should I use?

Any red and blue gelatin will work. Strawberry or cherry for red, and berry blue for the blue side are classic choices.

Is it possible to use fresh whipped cream?

Yes, you can use fresh whipped cream, but keep in mind it may deflate more quickly than store-bought whipped topping.

Can I add fruit inside the cake?

You can fold in chopped strawberries or blueberries into the batter, but it may slightly affect the cake’s texture.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for the cleanest presentation.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free cake mix and confirm that your gelatin and whipped topping are also gluten-free.

What can I use instead of whipped topping?

Try stabilized whipped cream or a mix of cream cheese and whipped cream for a richer topping.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in two 9×13-inch pans.

Conclusion

The Red, White and Blue Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s both simple and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re celebrating Independence Day or just want a colorful treat, this cake delivers on taste, presentation, and ease. Make it once, and it will become a yearly tradition at your summer parties.

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