Red White And Blue Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Red White and Blue Poke Cake is a festive and colorful dessert perfect for patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or Labor Day. Made with a soft white cake base, vibrant red and blue gelatin, and topped with a creamy whipped topping, this cake is as eye-catching as it is delicious. Each slice reveals a beautiful marbled pattern of patriotic colors that will impress guests of all ages.

ingredients

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

white cake mix (plus ingredients needed to prepare it, usually eggs, oil, and water)red gelatin (such as cherry or strawberry)blue gelatin (such as berry blue)boiling watercold waterwhipped topping (like Cool Whip)red, white, and blue sprinkles (optional for decoration)

directions

Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions using a 9×13-inch baking dish. Allow it to cool slightly after baking.

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Prepare the red gelatin by mixing it with boiling water, then stir in cold water. Repeat separately for the blue gelatin.

Carefully spoon the red gelatin mixture into a third of the holes and the blue gelatin into another third, alternating as you go to create a colorful pattern. Leave some of the cake white for contrast if desired.

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the gelatin to set.

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.

Decorate with red, white, and blue sprinkles just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-15 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 30-35 minutesCooling and chilling time: 2 hours 30 minutesTotal time: about 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use strawberry and blueberry puree instead of gelatin for a more natural fruit flavor.

Swap the white cake for angel food or vanilla sponge for a different texture.

Add fresh berries on top of the whipped cream for extra flavor and decoration.

Use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping for a richer taste.

storage/reheating

Store Red White and Blue Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Best enjoyed cold—no reheating needed.If freezing, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Red White And Blue Poke Cake

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a type of cake where holes are poked into the surface after baking and filled with a liquid or filling, such as gelatin or pudding.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making a day ahead. Just add sprinkles right before serving for the freshest look.

Do I have to use box cake mix?

No, you can use a homemade white cake recipe if you prefer.

Can I use sugar-free gelatin?

Yes, sugar-free gelatin works well and reduces the sugar content of the dessert.

Why is my gelatin not absorbing into the cake?

Make sure the holes go deep enough and pour the gelatin slowly to let it soak in.

Can I add food coloring to the cake batter for more color?

Yes, you can tint parts of the batter for an extra burst of red and blue color.

Is this cake kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the colors and the fun appearance.

Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, but stabilized whipped cream is recommended to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Red White and Blue Poke Cake is a fun, festive, and easy dessert that brings patriotic flair to any celebration. With its vibrant colors and cool, creamy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Perfect for summer holidays, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite for your patriotic parties.

Print
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Red White And Blue Poke Cake

Red White And Blue Poke Cake

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A festive and colorful poke cake perfect for patriotic celebrations, featuring layers of red and blue gelatin infused into a white cake, topped with whipped topping and sprinkles.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water)
  • 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
  • 1 package (3 oz) berry blue gelatin
  • 2 cups boiling water (1 cup for each gelatin flavor)
  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
  • Red, white, and blue sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and prepare white cake mix according to package instructions. Bake in a 9×13 inch pan and let it cool slightly.
  2. Using a fork or straw, poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
  3. In two separate bowls, dissolve each gelatin flavor in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved.
  4. Pour the red gelatin evenly over one half of the cake, and the blue gelatin over the other half, letting it soak into the holes.
  5. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the gelatin to set.
  6. Spread whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake.
  7. Decorate with red, white, and blue sprinkles if desired.
  8. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Notes

  • You can use sugar-free gelatin for a lighter version.
  • Make sure the cake is cool before adding gelatin to prevent melting the structure.
  • Best served chilled for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 270mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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