Red White And Blue Poke Cake

Red White and Blue Poke Cake is a festive, patriotic dessert perfect for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or any summer celebration. This colorful cake features white cake infused with red and blue gelatin, topped with a light whipped topping and festive sprinkles. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and visually stunning.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box like eggs, oil, and water)red gelatin (like cherry or strawberry)blue gelatin (like berry blue)boiling watercold waterwhipped topping (like Cool Whip)patriotic sprinkles

directions

Prepare and bake the white cake mix according to the package instructions in a 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool slightly.

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake about 1 inch apart.

Dissolve the red gelatin in boiling water, then add cold water. Repeat with the blue gelatin in a separate bowl.

Carefully spoon the red gelatin into one-third of the holes and the blue gelatin into another third, leaving the last third plain if desired for the “white” section.

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let the gelatin set.

Once set, spread whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake.

Add patriotic sprinkles before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12–15 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 30 minutesCooling and chilling time: 2–3 hoursTotal time: 3 hours and 45 minutes

Variations

Use a homemade white cake instead of a boxed mix for a from-scratch version.

Try layering the colors diagonally or in a flag design for a more intricate look.

Use cream cheese frosting instead of whipped topping for a richer flavor.

Top with fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries for added texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Red White and Blue Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Because of the whipped topping, it should not be kept at room temperature for long periods.Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the gelatin and topping may change.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making a day in advance so the gelatin has time to set.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, just be sure it’s stabilized so it holds up well on the cake.

Can I use different gelatin flavors?

Absolutely, as long as you keep the red and blue theme for the patriotic look.

What if I don’t have a wooden spoon?

You can use any similarly sized tool like a straw or the handle of a spatula.

Can I make this in a different size pan?

Yes, just adjust the baking time accordingly and ensure gelatin is well distributed.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, due to the gelatin and whipped topping.

Can I use food coloring instead of gelatin?

No, gelatin adds both color and flavor, which food coloring alone does not provide.

What type of cake mix works best?

A plain white cake mix is ideal to allow the colors to pop.

Can I add fruit inside?

Yes, finely chopped strawberries or blueberries can be folded into the whipped topping.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Only if you use a gluten-free cake mix and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Red White and Blue Poke Cake is the ultimate patriotic dessert, combining vibrant colors with light, sweet flavors. Easy to assemble and always a hit at parties, this cake brings festive flair to any gathering. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a summer staple.

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