Cherry Poke Cake

Cherry poke cake starts with a simple box cake and takes it to another level with a few simple steps. The result is a moist, tender white cake that’s soaked with cherry gelatin for a burst of fruity goodness in every bite. Then, we crank up the flavor again with a creamy layer of whipped topping and a mountain of sweet cherry pie filling. It’s a total home run—rich, tangy, sweet and straight-up delicious. One bite and you’ll never look at a cake mix the same way again.

Cherry Poke Cake Ingredients

• White cake mix: White cake mix serves as the foundation of the dessert, creating a light, fluffy cake with minimal effort and ingredients.
• Cherry gelatin: This ingredient infuses the cake with a bright cherry flavor and adds moisture by soaking into the baked layers.
• Boiling water: Use boiling water to dissolve the gelatin thoroughly, which will allow it to distribute evenly throughout the cake.
• Cream cheese: Cream cheese lends a tangy, creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the topping.
• Whipped topping: Whipped topping creates a light, airy frosting that contrasts nicely with the denser cake. Feel free to substitute homemade whipped cream if you prefer.
• Cherry pie filling: Cherry pie filling is a sweet, fruity topping that adds both flavor and a vibrant, colorful finish to the cake.

Directions

Step 1: Bake the cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan. Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions, then pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for three to five minutes.

Step 2: Add the cherry gelatin

While the cake is cooling, dissolve the cherry gelatin in 1-1/2 cups boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Poke holes all over the warm cake using a meat fork or wooden skewer. Slowly and evenly pour the dissolved gelatin over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Let the cake cool for 15 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Make the frosting and assemble

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the frosting, spreading it out to cover the entire cake. Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least two hours before serving.

Taste Recipes

Cherry Poke Cake Variations

• Swap the gelatin: Use strawberry or raspberry gelatin in place of cherry for a different fruity twist.
• Add a chocolate layer: Drizzle melted chocolate or hot fudge over the cake before adding the cream cheese frosting for a cherry-chocolate combo.
• Incorporate fresh fruit: Fold in chopped fresh cherries or strawberries into the whipped topping for added texture and bursts of fresh fruit flavor.
• Use a flavored whipped topping: Mix a tablespoon of cherry liqueur or vanilla extract into the whipped topping for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it citrusy: Add lemon or lime zest to the cake mix before baking for a bright, citrusy kick that complements the cherries.

How to Store Cherry Poke Cake

To store this cherry poke cake, cover it tightly with storage wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated and it will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, serve it chilled straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Can you freeze cherry poke cake?

You can freeze some parts of the cherry poke cake. Wrap the cake tightly in storage wrap and then in a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Be sure to freeze the cake without the whipped topping or pie filling, as these ingredients don’t freeze well. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake in the fridge, then add the whipped topping and pie filling just before serving.

Cherry Poke Cake Tips

Taste Recipes

How can I make poke cake without it being soggy?

To avoid a soggy poke cake, be sure to pour the gelatin slowly and evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes gradually. Let the cake cool slightly before adding the gelatin, and refrigerate it immediately after to prevent sogginess and help the cake set properly.

What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?

If you’re looking for an alternative to cherry pie filling, use any fruit pie filling, such as apple or blueberry. For a fresher option, make a quick homemade topping by simmering fresh or frozen fruit with a little sugar and lemon juice until thickened.

How do I know when the cake is fully set after refrigerating?

The cake will be fully set when it feels firm to the touch and the gelatin has absorbed into the cake layers. This usually takes about two hours, but for best results, you can let it chill longer if needed.