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valentine's day jello poke cake

Tasty Valentine's Day Jello Poke Cake

Delicious Tasty Valentine's Day Jello Poke Cake recipe with step-by-step instructions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 2 minutes
Servings: 16 slices
Calories: 3750
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 1 box cake mix (Duncan Hines Signature White suggested)
  • 1 cup whole milk (to replace water for richness)
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the gelatin mixture
  • 3.3 oz strawberry gelatin
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
For the topping
  • 16 oz whipped topping (thawed)
  • Red and pink heart sprinkles

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk or use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined. Pour the batter into a 9x13 inch baking pan and bake according to package directions, typically 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  2. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes—this gives it time to set slightly but remain warm enough for the jello to absorb properly. Once cooled, use a fork, toothpick, or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake about 1 inch apart, creating a dense pattern of perforations. I like to work in sections systematically so I don't miss any spots and ensure the jello will penetrate evenly throughout.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the strawberry gelatin with the fine sea salt. Pour the boiling water over the gelatin mixture and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the gelatin is completely dissolved—this ensures a smooth, lump-free jello. Let this mixture cool for about 5 minutes, then stir in the cold water. Carefully pour the jello mixture evenly over the entire surface of the poked cake, allowing it to flow into all the holes you created.
  4. Place the cake in the refrigerator and chill for 3-4 hours, or until the jello is completely set and the cake is thoroughly chilled. The longer chilling time ensures the jello penetrates deep into the cake and creates that signature poke cake texture. I find that chilling overnight actually gives the best flavor development, as the strawberry jello has more time to infuse into the cake.
  5. Remove the cake from the refrigerator and spread the thawed whipped topping evenly across the top using a spatula or the back of a spoon, creating decorative peaks and swirls if desired. Generously sprinkle the red and pink heart sprinkles over the whipped topping for a festive Valentine's Day presentation. Serve immediately while the cake is still chilled.