Go Back
Delicious Jell-O Poke Cake with vibrant colors and creamy topping

Jell-O Poke Cake

This luscious dessert is bursting with cherry flavor and features a soft, dreamy texture, making it an ideal last-minute party treat or potluck favorite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 pieces
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake mix and mix-ins

  • 1 box 1 box (13.25 oz) white cake mix
  • 1.25 cups 1 1/4 cups water (as called for on the box)
  • 0.5 cups 1/2 cup oil (as called for on the box)
  • 4 pieces 4 egg whites (as called for on the box)

Gelatin

  • 1 box 1 (3 oz) box cherry Jell-O
  • 1 cup 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup 1 cup cold water

Topping

  • 8 oz 8 oz whipped topping (thawed if frozen)
  • 12 pieces 12 maraschino cherries, drained

Instructions
 

Preparation and Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  • In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, 1 1/4 cups water, 1/2 cup oil, and 4 egg whites for 3 minutes.
  • Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Remove the cake from the oven, and allow to cool for 5–10 minutes. Poke holes all over the cake every 1/2 inch or so using a skewer stick or large fork.

Making the Jell-O

  • Prepare the Jell-O by bringing 1 cup of water to a boil, stirring in the gelatin until dissolved, then stir in another 1 cup of cold water and whisk for 3 minutes.
  • Slowly pour the prepared liquid over the cake, allowing it to absorb into the holes, then refrigerate for 4 hours.

Serving

  • To serve, top with whipped topping and arrange maraschino cherries on top.

Notes

For best freshness, store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Chill at least 4 hours, preferably overnight to let flavors meld and texture set.
Keyword Cherry Dessert, Easy Cake, Jell-O Cake, party dessert, Poke Cake