Get ready to embrace the flavors of summer with our incredibly delicious and refreshingly simple Cherry Poke Cake Recipe. This cake is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves light, fruity desserts that are both easy to make and visually stunning. Imagine a perfectly fluffy vanilla cake, tender and moist, generously infused with the vibrant, sweet-tart essence of dark cherry jello. Each bite offers a delightful burst of cherry flavor and a wonderfully moist texture, perfectly complemented by a cloud of airy whipped cream and a garnish of fresh, plump sweet cherries. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of sunny days and ripe seasonal fruits!
As summer unfolds, bringing with it an abundance of nature’s sweetest bounty like cherries and peaches, our kitchens become a canvas for creating refreshing delights. There’s a special joy in savoring the season’s ripe and juicy fruits, whether enjoyed fresh off the stem or transformed into delectable desserts. Cherries, often called summer’s little jewels, are simply irresistible. While they are perfect popped straight into your mouth, their beauty and flavor truly shine when they crown a piece of this fluffy and light vanilla cake, which has been lovingly infused with cherry jello. It’s a match made in dessert heaven, promising an experience that is nothing short of delightful!
This Cherry Poke Cake stands out not only for its incredible flavor and texture but also for its remarkable ease of preparation. Each forkful melts in your mouth, delivering a symphony of sweet, fruity, and creamy notes. Its vibrant colors and festive presentation make it an ideal choice for summer parties, barbecues, potlucks, or simply as a refreshing treat for your family on a warm day. Forget complicated baking projects; this recipe brings maximum impact with minimal effort, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the summer sunshine.
The Enduring Appeal of Poke Cakes: A Dessert That Delivers Moisture and Flavor
For those new to the wonderful world of poke cakes, allow us to introduce you to a baking technique that guarantees an exceptionally moist and flavorful dessert every time. A poke cake starts with a freshly baked cake, typically a sheet cake, which is then perforated with numerous holes once it has cooled slightly. These holes are then filled with a liquid, most commonly jello, but sometimes pudding or condensed milk. The liquid seeps into the cake’s crumb, infusing it with an additional layer of flavor and unparalleled moisture. The result is a cake that is incredibly tender, juicy, and visually appealing, with colorful streaks running through its interior. This method is a game-changer, turning a simple cake into a dessert that stays moist and delicious for days, making it perfect for advance preparation.
Crafting Perfection: The Ingredients Behind Our Cherry Poke Cake
Our recipe for the Cherry Poke Cake begins with a homemade vanilla cake base, offering a depth of flavor and a tender crumb that’s hard to beat. The cake relies on a harmonious blend of dry ingredients: all-purpose flour for structure, granulated sugar for sweetness, baking powder and baking soda for lightness, and a touch of salt to balance the flavors. A unique addition of unsweetened shredded coconut provides a subtle texture and an extra layer of tropical fragrance that complements the cherry wonderfully. The wet ingredients – vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract – ensure the cake remains incredibly moist and rich. Buttermilk, in particular, contributes to a fine crumb and delicate tang that elevates the vanilla base.
The true star and the namesake of this dessert is the jello infusion. We’ve chosen dark cherry jello for its intense, authentic cherry flavor and its beautiful, deep ruby hue. This rich color perfectly complements the fresh dark cherries used for decoration, creating a cohesive and stunning presentation. When the warm, liquid jello is poured over the poked cake, it eagerly absorbs into the small tunnels, transforming each slice into a marvel of moistness and vivid color. The process is simple yet magical, ensuring every bite is bursting with sweet cherry goodness.
The Perfect Topping: Light, Airy, and Complementary
Unlike heavier, traditional buttercreams, this Cherry Poke Cake is topped with a generous layer of light and airy whipped topping. You can opt for a convenient store-bought whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or whip up your own fresh cream for an extra touch of homemade goodness. This choice of topping is deliberate; its delicate texture and mild sweetness provide a refreshing contrast to the dense, jello-infused cake, ensuring the entire dessert feels summery and bright, never overly rich or heavy. As the original article notes, skipping traditional buttercream allows the cake and cherry flavors to truly be the stars of the show.
A Culinary Secret: Elevate Your Flavor Profile! For those who appreciate an exquisite flavor pairing, here’s a professional tip: swap the vanilla extract for ½ teaspoon of almond extract in the cake batter. The harmonious combination of almond and cherry is legendary in baking, and it transforms this cake into an even more sophisticated dessert experience. It’s truly phenomenal! While dark cherry jello offers a perfect visual and flavor match, feel free to unleash your creativity with other jello flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, or even a mixed berry jello could create a delightful twist, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your palate or the occasion.
Beyond Cherry: Endless Poke Cake Possibilities
The beauty of the poke cake concept extends far beyond just cherries. This adaptable dessert technique provides an exciting canvas for countless flavor combinations. Imagine taking this same moist vanilla cake base and infusing it with strawberry jello, then topping it with fresh sliced strawberries for a vibrant Strawberry Poke Cake. Or perhaps a tropical escape with pineapple jello and toasted coconut. For chocolate lovers, a chocolate cake base could be infused with raspberry jello and topped with fresh raspberries, creating a rich yet refreshing treat. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination and the array of jello and fruit combinations you can dream up. Each variation promises the same signature moistness and burst of infused flavor that makes poke cakes such a beloved and endlessly customizable dessert.
More Delicious Cake Recipes to Inspire Your Baking:
- One-Bowl Chocolate Cake Recipe
- One Bowl Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Eggless Chocolate Cake
- The Best Apple Crumb Cake
If you fall in love with this recipe and decide to make it, please share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate it if you enjoyed this delightful summer treat! Your feedback is much appreciated.
Cherry Poke Cake Recipe
Anna
Pin Recipe
15 minutes
25 minutes
40 minutes
Dessert
American
10
people
424
kcal
Ingredients
for the cake:
-
2
c
all-purpose flour -
¾
c
granulated sugar -
2
teaspoon
baking powder -
½
teaspoon
baking soda -
¼
teaspoon
salt -
¾
cup
unsweetened shredded coconut -
½
c
vegetable oil -
1
c
buttermilk -
2
eggs -
1
teaspoon
vanilla extract OR ½ teaspoon almond extract -
1 3.5
oz
package cherry jello
(I used dark) -
1
cup
boiling water -
½
cup
cold water
topping:
-
8
oz
tub of whipped topping
(like Cool Whip) or 2 cups freshly whipped cream -
12
to 14 fresh cherries with stems
, for decoration
Instructions
To Make the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the precise temperature for even baking from the moment your cake goes in, preventing uneven cooking.
- Thoroughly grease and flour a 9″ x 13″ baking pan. This essential step prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and guarantees easy removal once baked and cooled. For added security, you can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¾ cup unsweetened shredded coconut. Ensure these are thoroughly combined. In a separate medium mixing bowl or large measuring cup, thoroughly mix the wet ingredients: ½ cup vegetable oil, 1 cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or ½ teaspoon almond extract for a delightful cherry-almond twist).
- Gradually add the wet ingredient mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing with a whisk or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake. The final batter should be smooth and have a thick, consistent texture.
- Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into your greased and floured 9″ x 13″ baking pan, spreading it gently to the edges with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until the top of the cake achieves a beautiful golden brown color and a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates that the cake is perfectly cooked through.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. This initial cooling period is crucial as it helps the cake set its structure and prevents it from crumbling when you begin the poking process.
- While the cake is undergoing its initial cooling, prepare the jello. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 3.5 oz package of cherry jello powder with 1 cup of boiling water. Stir vigorously for approximately 2 minutes, or until the jello powder is completely dissolved and no granules remain. Then, add ½ cup of cold water and stir again to cool the mixture slightly.
- Once the cake has cooled for 15 minutes, use a fork or a wooden skewer to poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the cake. Aim for holes about ½ to 1 inch apart to ensure even jello distribution. Carefully and slowly pour the prepared jello mixture over the cake, making sure the liquid seeps into all the poked holes.
- Chill the jello-infused cake in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. This prolonged chilling period is vital for the jello to set completely within the cake and for the flavors to fully meld, resulting in that signature moist and vibrant poke cake texture. (Please refer to the important note below regarding glass pans).
- Once the cake is thoroughly chilled and the jello is completely set, evenly spread the entire 8 oz tub of whipped topping (or 2 cups of freshly whipped cream) over the cooled cake. Return the cake to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 1 hour to allow the topping to firm up slightly and integrate with the cake.
- Before serving, slice the cake into desired pieces. For an elegant and enticing presentation, garnish each individual slice with fresh cherries, ideally with their stems intact, just before serving. Enjoy your beautifully vibrant and refreshingly delicious Cherry Poke Cake!
Notes
Important Note on Glass Pans: If you are baking this delightful cake in a glass pan, it is crucial to exercise caution. Avoid placing the warm pan directly into the refrigerator while it’s still hot, as rapid temperature changes can cause glass to crack or shatter. After pouring the jello over the cake, allow the cake to sit on the counter for an additional 15 to 20 minutes (preferably on a cooling rack) to cool further before transferring it to the refrigerator for its final chill.
Storage Instructions: Any leftover Cherry Poke Cake can be stored beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors, ensure the cake is tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This will keep the cake moist and the topping creamy.
Make-Ahead Tips: This poke cake is an excellent candidate for making ahead, which is perfect for entertaining. You can bake the cake and infuse it with the jello a full day in advance. Simply keep it covered in the refrigerator. We recommend adding the whipped topping and the fresh cherry garnish just a few hours before you plan to serve it to ensure they look and taste their absolute best.
Nutrition
Calories:
424
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
55
g
|
Protein:
6
g
|
Fat:
20
g
|
Saturated Fat:
16
g
|
Cholesterol:
35
mg
|
Sodium:
240
mg
|
Potassium:
254
mg
|
Fiber:
2
g
|
Sugar:
34
g
|
Vitamin A:
110
IU
|
Vitamin C:
0.7
mg
|
Calcium:
99
mg
|
Iron:
1.7
mg
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Poke Cake
Can I use a box cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch?
Absolutely! While our recipe provides instructions for a delicious scratch-made vanilla cake, using a high-quality box white or vanilla cake mix can be a fantastic time-saver, especially on busy days. Simply prepare the cake mix according to the package directions, baking it in a 9×13 inch pan. Once baked and cooled for the initial 15 minutes, you can proceed with the jello-poking steps as outlined in our recipe. This makes the Cherry Poke Cake even quicker to put together without sacrificing much flavor!
Can I use other jello flavors for this poke cake?
Yes, you certainly can! The beauty and versatility of a poke cake mean you’re not limited to just cherry. While dark cherry jello provides a rich color and deep flavor that beautifully complements fresh cherries, feel free to experiment with other fruit-flavored jellos. Strawberry, raspberry, or even black cherry would be excellent and harmonious choices. For those seeking a more adventurous or visually striking contrast, some bakers enjoy using lime or blue raspberry jello. Always choose a flavor that you and your guests will enjoy!
How far in advance can I make this Cherry Poke Cake?
This Cherry Poke Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert, making it perfect for parties and gatherings! You can comfortably prepare the cake, poke it, and infuse it with the jello 1-2 days in advance. Ensure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out, and store it in the refrigerator. We recommend adding the whipped topping and the fresh cherry garnish no more than a few hours before you plan to serve it. This ensures the topping remains fresh, light, and beautiful, and the cherries retain their vibrant appearance.
Why did my jello not absorb properly into the cake?
If your jello isn’t absorbing as expected, there are a few common culprits. Firstly, ensure you’ve poked a sufficient number of holes into the cake – aim for consistent spacing (about ½ to 1 inch apart) and adequate depth to create channels for the liquid. Secondly, the cake should be warm enough after its initial cooling (15 minutes as per instructions) to allow the jello to seep in, but not hot enough to melt it. Lastly, check the consistency of your jello mixture; it should be fully dissolved and still liquid, not already starting to set before you pour it over the cake. Proper chilling time is also essential for the jello to fully set within the cake’s structure.
Can I use fresh fruit other than cherries for garnish or in the jello?
Yes, fresh cherries make a delightful and classic garnish, but you can certainly substitute them with other fresh berries like sliced strawberries or whole raspberries for a varied aesthetic and flavor profile. If you’re considering adding other fresh fruits directly into the jello mixture itself, be aware that some raw fruits, notably pineapple, kiwi, and papaya, contain enzymes that can prevent gelatin from setting. To avoid this, either use canned versions of these fruits (which have had the enzymes inactivated by heat) or cook them lightly before incorporating them into your jello mixture. For this recipe, fresh cherries are solely a garnish and do not affect the jello setting process.