Indulge in the Ultimate Cherry Poke Cake Recipe: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite
Prepare to delight your taste buds with this sensational Cherry Poke Cake recipe – a dessert that promises unmatched moistness and a vibrant burst of cherry flavor. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight treats to festive gatherings. Its simple preparation and incredible taste make it a surefire hit with the entire family, guaranteeing smiles with every luscious forkful.
Creating this delightful Cherry Poke Cake requires just a few basic ingredients, making it an accessible and enjoyable baking project for bakers of all skill levels. It’s a particularly fun dessert to prepare with kids, allowing them to help with the “poking” step, which adds to the excitement. As a long-time enthusiast of easy cake recipes, I can confidently say this cherry poke cake has earned its place as a perennial favorite in my collection.
Poke cakes are renowned for their simplicity and the incredible way they infuse flavor throughout every crumb. If you’re looking for more effortless dessert ideas, be sure to explore other fan favorites like the Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake Recipe and the Easy Oreo Poke Cake Recipe. For another delightful cherry-themed treat, consider trying our Cherry Chip Cake Recipe.
What You’ll Find in This Guide to Cherry Poke Cake
- What Exactly is a Poke Cake?
- Why This Cherry Poke Cake Will Be Your New Favorite
- Essential Ingredients for Your Cherry Poke Cake
- Creative Variations to Customize Your Cake
- Step-by-Step: How to Make Cherry Jello Poke Cake
- Expert Tips for a Perfect Poke Cake
- Serving and Storage Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Poke Cakes
- Explore More Delicious Poke Cake Recipes
- Full Cherry Poke Cake Recipe Card
What Exactly is a Poke Cake?
A poke cake is a baking marvel, typically a sheet cake, where holes are deliberately “poked” into its surface after baking. This unique technique allows a rich, flavorful filling – most commonly a liquid like gelatin, pudding, or condensed milk – to seep deep into the cake, infusing every bite with moisture and intense flavor. The result is an incredibly tender and moist dessert that is far from dry or bland. The topping is often a creamy layer of whipped cream, homemade icing, or a delicious cream cheese frosting, adding another dimension of texture and taste.
The beauty of poke cake recipes lies in their versatility and ease of preparation. They are fundamentally simple to assemble, yet yield an impressive and deeply flavorful dessert that appears much more complex than it is. While the cherry version is undeniably captivating, the world of poke cakes is vast and exciting. You might also enjoy adventurous options like Fireball Poke Cake for a grown-up twist, or consider pairing this vibrant cherry cake with a spread of 36 Red White and Blue Desserts for a patriotic celebration.
Why This Cherry Poke Cake Will Be Your New Favorite
There are countless reasons why this easy cherry poke cake is a standout dessert. First and foremost, its simplicity is a major advantage. Using a boxed cake mix streamlines the baking process, making it perfect for busy schedules without sacrificing taste. The magic of the poke cake method ensures a remarkably moist texture, as the cherry gelatin seeps into every crevice, creating pockets of fruity sweetness that prevent any dryness. This cake is also incredibly adaptable; you can easily swap out flavors or toppings to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s an economical choice, too, offering a satisfying dessert without requiring expensive ingredients. Finally, the vibrant red color from the cherry jello, combined with a fluffy white frosting, makes it visually stunning and perfect for impressing guests at any gathering, from summer BBQs to holiday feasts. It’s a truly delightful and hassle-free treat that guarantees a crowd-pleasing experience.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cherry Poke Cake
Crafting this delightful cherry poke cake requires a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility.
For the Moist Cake Base:
- White Cake Mix: This serves as the foundation for our cake, providing a light and fluffy texture that perfectly complements the cherry flavor.
- Large Eggs: Essential for structure, richness, and binding the cake ingredients together. Using room temperature eggs can lead to a more evenly mixed batter.
- Vegetable or Canola Oil: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake, contributing to its soft crumb.
- Buttermilk: A key ingredient for exceptional moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Almond Extract: While optional, a touch of almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully, adding a layer of sophisticated sweetness.
For the Vibrant Cherry Jello Infusion:
- Cherry Gelatin: The star of the poke cake, this infuses the cake with its signature bright cherry flavor and striking red color. You’ll need one small box (3.4 oz).
- Boiling Water: Used to dissolve the gelatin completely, ensuring it can seep effectively into the cake.
- Cold Water: Added after the boiling water to bring the gelatin mixture to the right consistency and temperature for soaking.
For the Cloud-Like Frosting:
- Whipped Topping (Cool Whip): Provides a light, airy, and creamy frosting that isn’t overly sweet, allowing the cherry flavor to shine. Ensure it’s thawed before mixing.
- Marshmallow Fluff: Adds an extra layer of sweetness, body, and a wonderfully sticky, smooth texture to the frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve the desired consistency. You can adjust the amount to your preference.
- Almond Extract: A small amount in the frosting ties all the flavors together and provides a subtle, complementary aroma.
Topping Ideas for Garnishing:
- Additional Whipped Topping: For extra dollops and decoration.
- Fresh Cherries: A beautiful and delicious garnish that reinforces the cherry theme.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Can be spooned over slices for an extra rich and fruity topping.
- Sliced Almonds: Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal, complementing the almond extract in the cake and frosting.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Cake
One of the best aspects of the poke cake concept is its incredible flexibility. While this cherry poke cake is a true masterpiece on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to make it uniquely yours. Here are some inspiring ideas to get you started:
- Explore Diverse Jello Flavors: The world of gelatin is vast and colorful! While cherry jello provides that classic vibrant hue and taste, feel free to substitute with any flavor that sparks your interest. Imagine a zesty lemon poke cake, a tangy raspberry version, a tropical pineapple infusion, or even a bold lime cake for a refreshing twist. Each flavor will transform the cake, offering a completely new dessert experience.
- Experiment with Cake Mix Flavors: The base cake itself can be easily altered. Instead of a white cake mix, consider a rich chocolate cake mix for a cherry-chocolate delight, a yellow cake for a classic flavor profile, or even a strawberry cake mix to double down on berry goodness. Chocolate cake, in particular, pairs wonderfully with vanilla pudding mix or even a raspberry gelatin. Don’t be afraid to mix and match to discover your next favorite combination!
- Swap Gelatin for Pudding Mix: If you’re looking for a creamier, richer filling, a pudding mix is an excellent alternative to gelatin. Simply prepare a vanilla pudding mix, lemon pudding mix, or even a banana pudding mix according to package directions, then pour it over the poked cake. This will create a denser, more custardy texture within the cake’s holes, adding another layer of indulgence.
- Elevate Your Topping Game: The frosting is an integral part of this poke cake, but you have many options beyond the suggested marshmallow fluff whipped topping.
- Classic Whipped Cream: A simple, light, and elegant choice that lets the cake’s flavors shine.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For a richer, tangier, and more decadent finish, a homemade cream cheese frosting would be absolutely divine.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a decadent chocolate ganache over a cherry-chocolate poke cake for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: Beyond cherries, consider topping with mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) for a colorful and fresh presentation.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Add a tropical touch and lovely texture.
- Mini Chocolate Chips or Shavings: A delightful addition for chocolate lovers.
- Sprinkles: Perfect for birthdays or festive occasions, adding a pop of color and fun.
Feel free to get creative and make one of these delicious poke cakes today – the possibilities are endless!
How to Make Cherry Jello Poke Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this stunning and delicious cherry poke cake is surprisingly simple. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly moist, flavorful, and beautifully presented dessert.
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, large eggs, vegetable or canola oil, buttermilk, and almond extract (if using). Beat the ingredients together on medium speed with an electric mixer until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring no dry pockets of cake mix remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into your greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. This cooling period is crucial before the next step.
Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Jello
While the cake is cooling, prepare your cherry gelatin. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cherry gelatin powder with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes, or until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Once dissolved, stir in 1/2 cup of cold water. Set aside to cool slightly, ensuring it’s not too hot when poured over the cake.
Step 5: Poke and Pour the Jello
Once the cake has cooled for 15 minutes, it’s time for the “poke” part! Using a wooden skewer, the handle of a wooden spoon, or a large fork, poke holes evenly all over the surface of the cake, approximately every ½ inch. Make sure the holes go deep enough to allow the jello to penetrate. Carefully and slowly pour the prepared cherry gelatin mixture over the entire cake, ensuring it seeps into all the poked holes. Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, or ideally, overnight. This chilling time is essential for the jello to set and fully infuse the cake.
Step 6: Prepare the Fluffy Frosting
While the cake is chilling, you can prepare the light and airy frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed whipped topping, marshmallow fluff, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Begin by adding ¼ cup of powdered sugar, then mix until the frosting is light and fluffy. Taste and add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, if you prefer a thicker or sweeter frosting. Mix until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish Your Cake
Once the cake is thoroughly chilled and the gelatin has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the prepared fluffy frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Now for the fun part – decorating! Garnish your beautiful cherry poke cake with fresh cherries, canned cherries, or a sprinkle of sliced almonds for added texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Poke Cake
Achieving a consistently moist and flavorful cherry poke cake is easy when you keep a few expert tips in mind. These simple guidelines will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your dessert is nothing short of spectacular:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When preparing the cake mix, mix only until the ingredients are just combined and smooth. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher, less tender cake. A few small lumps are better than an overmixed batter.
- Cool the Cake Slightly Before Poking: It’s important for the cake to be warm but not hot when you poke the holes. If the cake is too hot, it might crumble too much. If it’s completely cold, the holes might not absorb the liquid as effectively. Aim for about 15-20 minutes of cooling time out of the oven.
- Poke Evenly and Deeply: The key to a true poke cake is ensuring the liquid seeps into every slice. Use a wooden skewer, the blunt end of a chopstick, or a large fork to create holes that are evenly spaced (about ½ inch apart) and go almost all the way to the bottom of the cake. This allows for maximum flavor absorption.
- Ensure Gelatin is Dissolved: When preparing the jello, stir thoroughly with boiling water until all the gelatin crystals are completely dissolved. Any undissolved crystals could lead to a grainy texture in some areas.
- Pour Slowly and Evenly: Don’t just dump the jello mixture onto the cake. Pour it slowly and evenly over the entire surface, allowing time for the liquid to soak into the holes. You might even use a spoon to guide the liquid into particularly thirsty areas.
- Chill Thoroughly: The chilling step is non-negotiable! The cake needs ample time (at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight) in the refrigerator for the gelatin to set within the cake’s structure. This is what gives the poke cake its signature moistness and texture. Rushing this step will result in a messy, less satisfying cake.
- Thaw Whipped Topping Properly: If using frozen whipped topping, make sure it’s fully thawed in the refrigerator before mixing it into the frosting. This ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting consistency.
- Adjust Powdered Sugar to Taste: The amount of powdered sugar in the frosting is a suggestion. Start with the smaller amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired sweetness and thickness.
- Garnish Just Before Serving: While the cake itself stores well, for the freshest appearance, add delicate garnishes like fresh cherries or sliced almonds just before serving. This prevents them from becoming soggy or dull.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
This Cherry Poke Cake is a versatile dessert that shines in many settings. For an extra special treat, serve individual slices with a dollop of extra whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of iced tea. Its vibrant appearance makes it a fantastic choice for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday celebrations. Consider serving it with other red-themed desserts for a coordinated spread, particularly for events like Valentine’s Day or Fourth of July.
How to store leftovers: Any leftover cherry poke cake should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the cake from drying out and to absorb any refrigerator odors. When stored properly, this cake will maintain its delicious flavor and moist texture for up to 5 days. For the best taste and texture, allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Can you freeze cherry poke cake? Yes, you absolutely can! This cake freezes wonderfully, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. To freeze, ensure the cake is completely cooled and frosted. You can freeze it as a whole cake (if your freezer space allows) or cut it into individual slices. Wrap the cake or slices tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer the frozen cake to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Once thawed, it will be just as moist and flavorful as when it was freshly made.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Poke Cakes
Yes, absolutely! Using cherry pie filling is a fantastic variation that will give your cake a different, richer texture and more substantial cherry chunks. If you decide to use pie filling, you’ll need to poke larger holes in the cake to accommodate the thicker consistency. Once the holes are made, gently spoon and push the pie filling down into them. Be sure to still chill the cake thoroughly before applying the frosting, as this helps the pie filling meld with the cake and ensures a tidy presentation.
You can use a variety of tools to poke holes in your cake, depending on the size of holes you prefer! A standard dinner fork works well for smaller, more numerous holes. For larger, more pronounced pockets of flavor, the end of a wooden spoon, a wooden skewer, or even a chopstick are excellent choices. Don’t overthink it – just use whatever sturdy, blunt object you have readily available in your kitchen to make those delicious indentations!
To keep your cherry poke cake fresh and moist, store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Make sure it’s well-covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other food odors. Properly stored, this delightful cake will remain delicious for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. To enjoy later, simply transfer the cake to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight.
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the regular white cake mix with your favorite gluten-free white cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients, like the gelatin and whipped topping, are also certified gluten-free if you have a strict dietary requirement. The preparation steps remain the same.
This recipe is designed for a standard 13×9-inch baking dish. Using a different size might affect baking time and the cake’s thickness. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will be thicker and may need a longer baking time; a larger pan will result in a thinner cake that bakes faster.
Explore More Delicious Poke Cake Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and delightful moistness of this cherry poke cake, you’ll be thrilled to discover the wide world of other poke cake variations. Each offers a unique flavor profile while maintaining the simple, poke-and-pour method. Here are some more fantastic poke cake recipes to add to your baking repertoire:
- Classic Jello Poke Cake Recipe: The original inspiration, often made with various Jello flavors for endless possibilities.
- Tropical Pineapple Poke Cake Recipe: Infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple, this cake is like a mini-vacation in every bite.
- Sweet Strawberry Poke Cake Recipe: A vibrant and fruity delight, perfect for summer picnics and strawberry lovers.
- Zesty Lime Jell-O Poke Cake Recipe: A refreshing and tangy cake that’s a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Indulgent Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake Recipe: Experience the comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll in a moist, easy-to-make cake format.
Each of these recipes offers a unique twist on the beloved poke cake, ensuring there’s a flavor for every craving and occasion. Go ahead and try them today – you will be so glad you did! And don’t forget to share your favorite creations in the comments!
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Cherry Poke Cake
10 minutes
25 minutes
3 hours
3 hours
35 minutes
12
American
Dessert
363
Carrie Barnard
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 white cake mix
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Almond Extract
- 1 small box 3.4 oz cherry gelatin (any flavor will work)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- For the Frosting:
- 1 8 oz. tub whipped topping thawed
- ½ cup marshmallow fluff
- ¼ – ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- For Topping (Optional):
- Additional whipped topping
- Fresh Cherries
- Cherry Pie Filling
- Sliced Almonds
Instructions
- For the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and generously coat a 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and almond extract. Mix with an electric mixer until the batter is smooth and well-blended, being careful not to overmix.
- Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes.
- While the cake cools, prepare the jello. In a separate bowl, combine the cherry gelatin powder with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir for about 2 minutes until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Then, add 1/2 cup of cold water and stir again.
- Using a wooden skewer, the handle of a wooden spoon, or a large fork, poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the cake, about every ½ inch. Ensure the holes penetrate deeply into the cake.
- Carefully and slowly pour the prepared cherry gelatin mixture over the poked cake, allowing it to seep into all the holes.
- Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, or ideally, overnight, allowing the gelatin to fully set and infuse the cake.
- For the Frosting:
- In a clean mixing bowl, combine the thawed whipped topping, marshmallow fluff, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Start by adding ¼ cup of powdered sugar and mix with an electric mixer until fluffy. You can add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired sweetness and thickness for the frosting.
- Once the cake is thoroughly chilled, spread the prepared frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- Garnish with fresh cherries, canned cherries, or sliced almonds, if desired.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap.
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