Introduction
Quench your thirst for summer sweetness with our delightful Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake, a refreshing dessert that’s bursting with fruity flavor. This moist and tangy lemon cake is infused with strawberry gelatin and topped with a creamy lemon frosting, creating a perfect balance of tart and sweet. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue, poolside party, or picnic in the park, this Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
History of Poke Cake
Poke cake has been a beloved dessert since the 1970s, when it first gained popularity in American kitchens. The concept is simple yet genius: a baked cake is “poked” all over with holes, then filled with a flavorful sauce or filling that seeps into the cake, infusing it with moisture and flavor. Over the years, poke cake has evolved to include a wide variety of flavors and combinations, from classic chocolate to fruity favorites like our Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake. With its irresistible blend of tangy lemon and sweet strawberry, this cake is a delicious twist on the classic dessert that’s perfect for summer celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) lemon cake mix, plus ingredients called for on the box (eggs, oil, water)
For the Strawberry Gelatin Filling:
- 1 box (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
For the Lemon Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sliced fresh strawberries
- Lemon slices
- Mint leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Lemon Cake:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box.
- Prepare the lemon cake batter according to the instructions on the box.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake according to the instructions, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin mix in boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Stir in the cold water until well combined.
3. Poke Holes in the Cake:
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the slightly cooled cake.
4. Fill the Holes with Strawberry Gelatin:
- Pour the prepared strawberry gelatin mixture over the top of the cake, making sure to fill all the holes.
- Spread the gelatin evenly over the surface of the cake.
5. Make the Lemon Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk until smooth and creamy.
6. Frost the Cake:
- Spread the lemon frosting over the top of the cake, covering the strawberry gelatin layer.
7. Chill and Serve:
- Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour, or until the frosting is set.
- Once chilled, slice the Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Garnish each slice with sliced fresh strawberries, lemon slices, and mint leaves, if desired.
- Enjoy the refreshing and fruity flavors of this delightful dessert with friends and family.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve mastered the art of making Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake, a refreshing and fruity dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings. With its tangy lemon cake, sweet strawberry gelatin filling, and creamy lemon frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether served at a backyard barbecue, poolside party, or picnic in the park, Strawberry Lemonade Poke Cake is guaranteed to brighten any occasion with its irresistible flavor and charm.