Patriotic Poke Cake – The One Cake I Bring Every 4th of July
This Patriotic Poke Cake is a festive, easy-to-make Summer Dessert and Red White and Blue Cake that’s perfect for 4th of July or any summer gathering. I love how its colorful Jell-O layers and creamy topping bring nostalgia and joy to every bite.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box—typically egg whites, water, and oil
- 1 box 3 oz cherry Jell-O
- 1 box 3 oz berry blue Jell-O
- 2 cups boiling water 1 cup per Jell-O flavor
- For the Topping:
- 1 container 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- Red white, and blue sprinkles
Instructions
- BAKE THE CAKE: Preheat your oven according to the directions on the white cake mix box, typically 350°F (175°C). Prepare the batter as instructed and pour it into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 15–20 minutes.
- PREPARE THE JELL-O: While the cake cools, dissolve each Jell-O flavor separately in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir each one until completely dissolved and set aside.
- POKE THE CAKE: Use the handle of a wooden spoon, a straw, or a skewer to poke holes across the entire surface of the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart and poking all the way down through the cake.
- ADD THE COLOR: Carefully spoon the red Jell-O into half of the holes and the blue Jell-O into the remaining holes. Alternate the colors for an even distribution. Gently tap or tilt the pan to help the gelatin settle. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
- FROST AND DECORATE: Once the cake is completely chilled and the gelatin has set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top. Finish with a generous amount of red, white, and blue sprinkles.
Notes
- Use a clean spoon for each Jell-O color to avoid blending the colors together. For the cleanest slices, chill the cake overnight and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.