If you’re longing for a dessert that’s as cheery as summertime and as indulgent as a special celebration, you have to try this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake. Super moist cake soaks up strawberry pie filling for an explosion of fruity flavor in every bite, with fluffy whipped topping and fresh berries crowning each slice. It’s the kind of treat that looks gorgeous on a picnic table and disappears shockingly fast at family gatherings! Prepare to fall in love with this playful spin on a nostalgic favorite that’s as easy as it is irresistible.

Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a complicated shopping list to whip up this delight. The beauty of Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is all in its simple, everyday ingredients—each one playing a key role in building layers of taste, color, and texture that make this cake sing.

White Cake Mix: Creates a soft, buttery base that soaks up all that delicious strawberry filling; be sure to check your box for required eggs, oil, and water.
Strawberry Pie Filling: Provides bright fruitiness and beautiful color as it seeps into every bite; using canned keeps things quick and easy.
Whipped Topping: Fluffy and light, this adds a creamy, cloud-like layer that balances the sweet fruit and cake.
Sliced Strawberries: For juicy, fresh flavor and a stunning, strawberry-studded finish right before serving.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Begin by preparing your white cake mix in a 9×13-inch pan according to the package directions. This is your flavorful foundation, so take care to let it bake until just golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Set it aside to cool completely—if the cake is too warm, the pie filling won’t soak in as beautifully.

Step 2: Poke Those Holes

Once your cake has cooled to room temperature, it’s time for the fun part! Use the handle of a thin wooden spoon to poke rows of holes, about an inch apart, all over the cake. This step is what turns your ordinary sheet cake into a true Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, letting all that sweet filling infuse every slice.

Step 3: Fill with Strawberry Pie Filling

Take your strawberry pie filling and scoop it generously over the cake. Use a rubber spatula to gently spread it out and press the filling into those little holes you created. Don’t rush—getting the filling down into the cake is key for those luscious pockets of flavor.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

Now, it’s time for the “frosting.” Spoon the whipped topping over the entire surface and smooth it out. This pillowy layer is essential for that unmistakable Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake vibe. Once covered, pop the pan into the fridge for at least an hour, letting everything meld together.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Strawberries

Just before serving, arrange sliced strawberries over the cake for a burst of freshness and a magazine-worthy presentation. Now you’re ready to slice, serve, and watch happy faces light up!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Garnishes

For a cake this pretty, a few simple garnishes go a long way. In addition to the sliced strawberries, you can sprinkle on a dusting of powdered sugar, scatter a few mint leaves, or even add a drizzle of extra strawberry syrup for a bakery-style touch.

Side Dishes

The Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake is rich and fruity, so light accompaniments are lovely. Offer some fresh lemonade or sweet iced tea, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice if you’re in the mood for extra indulgence. A bowl of mixed berries on the table also keeps the party colorful and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks and picnics, serve the poke cake in sturdy cups or jars for single-serve convenience. You can cut the cake into squares and layer them with extra whipped cream in clear glasses for a parfait-style treat. Or, if you want to wow your guests, try decorating with edible flowers or ribboned white chocolate curls for a truly showstopping Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying the festivities, simply cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate. It will keep fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The strawberry filling keeps the cake wonderfully moist, so it’s a treat even the next day!

Freezing

If you want to prepare your Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake ahead, freeze the cake (without whipped topping or fresh berries) well-wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the whipped topping and strawberries just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, there’s no need for reheating! If your cake has been in the fridge, let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving so the flavors bloom and the texture softens slightly for the perfect bite.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream adds extra richness and a touch of elegance. Whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form, then spread on top of your chilled cake right before serving.

Is it possible to substitute other fruits or pie fillings?

Yes! While strawberry is classic for this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake, you can easily experiment with raspberry, blueberry, or even a combination of berries. Peach pie filling is also a fun twist for a summery flavor profile.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Swap the regular white cake mix for your favorite gluten-free white or vanilla cake mix, and check that your pie filling and whipped topping are gluten-free. The method remains exactly the same, and everyone can enjoy a slice!

Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake a day ahead?

Definitely! In fact, allowing it to chill overnight ensures the flavors meld beautifully and the strawberry filling gets extra time to soak in. Just add your fresh strawberry slices right before serving for the prettiest presentation.

What’s the best way to cut neat slices?

For clean, picture-perfect slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts. This helps you slice through the layers smoothly, keeping the whipped topping and filling looking gorgeous.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make, brimming with fresh strawberry flavor, and downright fun to serve, the Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake absolutely delivers. Give it a try and let yourself be swept away—one sweet, strawberry-filled bite at a time!

Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 5 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the deliciousness of this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake – a delightful twist on a classic dessert. With layers of moist white cake, sweet strawberry pie filling, and luscious whipped topping, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

1 box white cake mix (+ ingredients list on packaging)

For the Filling and Topping:

3 cups strawberry pie filling (about 1½ (21-ounce cans)
8 ounces whipped topping (thawed)
2 cups strawberries (sliced)

Instructions

Prepare the Cake: Mix the white cake according to package directions and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool.
Poke Holes: Using a thin wooden spoon handle, poke holes about an inch apart all over the cake.
Add Filling: Spread the strawberry pie filling over the cake, pressing gently to fill the holes.
Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped topping over the cake.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour. Before serving, top with sliced strawberries.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American