Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1 cup water; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cozy Baking Recipes

I love putting a twist on classic desserts, and this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake certainly fits the bill! This cake is a delightful combination of moist vanilla cake, sweet strawberry syrup, and whipped cream, creating an irresistible treat that everyone will enjoy. The poke cake method infuses the cake with flavor and moisture, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether it's a summer gathering or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-02-28T02:17:36.942Z

When I first tried making a poke cake, I was amazed by how easy and fun it was! The idea of poking holes into a cake to soak it with luscious flavors was so appealing. For this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, I decided to use fresh strawberries for a burst of natural sweetness. The result was astonishing; the cake became incredibly moist and flavorful, and the flavor combination was simply divine.

I also learned that letting the cake chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving enhances the flavors tremendously. The whipped cream topping adds a light, fluffy texture that complements the rich strawberry flavor perfectly. Trust me, this cake will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist cake infused with fresh strawberry syrup
Heavenly whipped cream topping for a light finish
Perfect for summer parties and celebrations

Understanding the Poke Cake Technique

The poke cake method allows the syrup to penetrate the cake, enhancing both flavor and moisture. After baking, cooling, and poking holes, the strawberry sauce seeps into the cake, transforming it into a delightful, syrupy dessert. This technique not only adds a burst of flavor but also prevents the cake from drying out, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. Make sure to evenly distribute the sauce across the surface for consistent flavor throughout.

For the best results, let the cake cool completely before pouring the sauce over it. This step is crucial as a hot cake may absorb the sauce too quickly, leading to sogginess. Once you’ve poured the strawberry sauce, giving it a little time in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully before serving, creating a refreshing dessert perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh strawberries in the sauce is key to achieving a vibrant flavor profile. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries elevates the cake without needing additional preservatives or flavorings that are often found in packaged sauces. If fresh strawberries aren't available, you can substitute with frozen strawberries; just ensure they're thawed and drained to avoid excess water in your sauce, which could dilute the flavor and texture.

The heavy whipping cream for the topping is another essential ingredient, as it provides a light, airy finish that beautifully contrasts the moistness of the cake. When whipping the cream, be careful not to overbeat it, which can lead to grainy textures. Stop once soft peaks form; this peak stage allows for easy spreading while retaining rich flavor and volume.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake:

For the Cake

1 box vanilla cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil

For the Strawberry Sauce

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water

For the Whipped Cream Topping

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake:

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and oil. Mix until smooth and pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Strawberry Sauce

While the cake is baking, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Soak the Cake

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork. Pour the strawberry sauce over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the cooled cake.

Serve

Top with additional fresh strawberries if desired. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor!

Enjoy this delicious cake with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the whipped cream for added texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to serve this cake at a later date, you can prepare the components separately. Bake the cake up to a day in advance and store it tightly covered at room temperature. The strawberry sauce can also be made ahead; just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Assemble with whipped cream the day of serving to maintain its fluffy texture and freshness.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding the strawberry sauce and whipped cream just before serving. This way, you have a delightful dessert ready to go!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your strawberry shortcake poke cake presentation, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sophisticated touch. Serving it with additional fresh strawberries or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream can enhance the dessert's appeal, delighting both kids and adults alike.

For a unique twist, you can vary the fruits used in the sauce. Peaches or raspberries can offer exciting flavor combinations that complement the vanilla cake beautifully. Just adjust the sweetness of the sauce according to the fruit's natural sweetness, experimenting with different fruits each time you make this delightful poke cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first.

→ How long will the poke cake last in the fridge?

The cake can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, covered tightly.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and refrigerate it, then add the toppings before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use a whipped topping for a lighter version, but heavy cream gives the best texture.