Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

The Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for summer celebrations and patriotic holidays. Its vibrant colors and festive appeal make it a favorite for gatherings like the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or any fun backyard barbecue. This cake combines moist white cake with cherry and blue jello, topped off with a fluffy layer of whipped cream. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake
• For the Jello
• For the Topping
• How to Make Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
• Step 1: Prepare the Cake
• Step 2: Make the Jello Mixtures
• Step 3: Poke Holes in the Cake
• Step 4: Chill
• Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
• How to Serve Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
• Individual Portions
• Ice Cream Pairing
• Fresh Berries
• Whipped Topping
• Decorative Plates
• How to Perfect Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
• Reheating Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake?
• How long does it take to make this poke cake?
• Can I customize the flavors?
• Is it suitable for large gatherings?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Appeal: The striking red, white, and blue colors make this cake perfect for celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is suitable for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Moist: The jello infusion ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
• Great for Sharing: With 18 servings, this cake is designed to feed a crowd at any gathering.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite fruits or additional sprinkles to personalize your dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your delicious Red White and Blue Poke Cake, gather a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Measuring cups
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking, helping the cake rise perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for poking holes in the cake without damaging its structure.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Red White and Blue Jello Poke Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 1 Box Cake Mix (White, plus ingredients to make the cake)

For the Jello

• 3 Ounces Jello (cherry)
• 3 Ounces Jello (blue)
• 1 Cup Water (boiling, divided in half)

For the Topping

• 8 Ounces Whipped Topping (Cool Whip)
• Sprinkles (red, white and blue)

How to Make Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven according to the directions on the cake mix box.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with required ingredients as stated in the package instructions.
3. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Jello Mixtures

1. In two separate bowls, dissolve 1.5 ounces of cherry jello in ½ cup boiling water. Stir until fully combined.
2. In another bowl, repeat this process with 1.5 ounces of blue jello and ½ cup boiling water.

Step 3: Poke Holes in the Cake

1. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
3. Carefully pour half of the cherry jello into one set of holes and half of the blue jello into another set.

Step 4: Chill

1. Place the cake in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to let it absorb all that delicious flavor.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

1. Once chilled, spread a generous layer of Cool Whip over the top of your cake.
2. Finish by sprinkling red, white, and blue sprinkles on top before serving!

With this easy Red White & Blue Poke Cake recipe, you’re all set to delight friends and family at your next event!

How to Serve Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

Serving your Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake can enhance its festive appeal and make it a centerpiece for your celebration. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Individual Portions

• Use small cups or jars for serving individual portions of cake. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy without the need for plates.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on top. The cold ice cream complements the sweet, moist cake beautifully.

Fresh Berries

• Add a few fresh strawberries or blueberries on each plate for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Whipped Topping

• Offer additional whipped topping on the side. Guests can add more as they please, making the cake even creamier.

Decorative Plates

• Present the cake on colorful plates that match the theme. This adds to the visual appeal and sets a festive mood.

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How to Perfect Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

To ensure your Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and dairy will make your cake more flavorful and moist.
• Follow baking times: Stick to the recommended baking time in the box mix instructions for best results.
• Cool completely: Let the cake cool fully before poking holes; this prevents jello from leaking out.
• Layer colors carefully: Pour jello into holes gently to avoid mixing red and blue colors.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes after adding toppings to let flavors meld.
• Add decorations last minute: Top with sprinkles just before serving to keep them crunchy.

Best Side Dishes for Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

Complementing your Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake with tasty side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with butter pairs well with desserts and adds a seasonal touch.

2. BBQ Chicken Wings
   Spicy wings offer a nice contrast to the sweetness of the poke cake.

3. Potato Salad
   A creamy potato salad provides a hearty side that complements any summer gathering.

4. Caprese Salad Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing option.

5. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad using summer fruits balances out the richness of dessert nicely.

6. Veggie Platter
   Crisp vegetables paired with hummus or ranch dressing provide a healthy crunch alongside sweets.

7. Cheese Board
   An assortment of cheeses and crackers offers variety and pairs well with fruit-based desserts.

8. Pasta Salad
   A cold pasta salad with veggies is filling and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold water: Make sure to use boiling water for the jello. Cold water won’t dissolve the jello properly.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cake. Stir just until wet ingredients are combined.
• Not letting it chill: Allowing the cake to cool in the fridge is key for set jello layers. Don’t skip this step.
• Mixing colors: When pouring jello into holes, pour carefully to avoid mixing red and blue. Keep them separate for a beautiful effect.
• Skipping the sprinkles: While optional, adding sprinkles enhances the festive look. Don’t forget this fun touch!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months.

Reheating Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake?

A Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake is a festive dessert made with white cake soaked in cherry and blue raspberry jello, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.

How long does it take to make this poke cake?

The total preparation time for the Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake is about 45 minutes, including baking time and chilling.

Can I customize the flavors?

Yes! You can switch up the jello flavors or even use different cake bases to create your unique version of this festive treat.

Is it suitable for large gatherings?

Absolutely! This recipe serves about 18 people, making it perfect for parties like Fourth of July celebrations or other gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake is not only vibrant and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize flavors and decorations to fit any occasion. Try making it and enjoy its delightful taste at your next celebration!