Easy Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

Growing up, my grandmother made the most Easy Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake every summer. I still remember the aroma of fresh strawberries and fluffy cake wafting through the kitchen. But as a busy adult, I wanted a shortcut to relive that nostalgic flavor—something easy yet satisfying. That’s when I discovered this Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake: a clever twist on a timeless dessert that skips the fuss of layers without sacrificing any of the charm.

This easy sheet pan dessert is perfect for beginner bakers. It uses simple, store-bought ingredients and minimal equipment, making it a great introduction to baking. Whether you’re prepping for a summer gathering or just craving something light and fruity, this lemony, creamy, and berry-filled treat ticks all the boxes for quick and healthy meals—especially in dessert form.

Why This Recipe is Special

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake transforms a traditional favorite into an approachable, no-fail dessert for novice cooks. It uses the clever “poke” technique—where holes are poked into the cake after baking to absorb fillings—which ensures each bite is packed with flavor. The vibrant strawberry filling seeps into the soft, white cake base, and a cloud of whipped topping adds a creamy contrast. What makes this recipe even better is its flexibility. You can personalize it with different fillings or make it from scratch as your confidence grows.

Ingredients and Preparation

White Cake Mix (Boxed)
Acts as the soft, fluffy base of the dessert. It’s light enough to let the strawberry flavor shine while keeping prep quick and stress-free. You can substitute with yellow or vanilla cake mix if desired for a richer base.

Strawberry Pie Filling
Brings the iconic strawberry shortcake flavor with its sweet-tart profile. This creates the luscious, fruity punch in each bite. You can use canned for convenience or prepare a homemade version by simmering fresh strawberries with sugar and cornstarch.

Whipped Topping (such as Cool Whip)
Creates a soft, airy contrast to the cake and strawberries. It adds creaminess without heaviness. Homemade whipped cream is a great alternative if you’re avoiding processed options.

Fresh Strawberries
Used for garnish, they add a burst of freshness and color. You can also try blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches for seasonal variety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Preheat your oven and prepare a white boxed cake mix according to the package instructions, baking it in a 9×13-inch sheet pan. Once done, let it cool completely to room temperature to avoid melting the topping.

Step 2
Using the handle of a wooden spoon (or a chopstick), gently poke holes all over the cake, spaced about an inch apart. These holes allow the strawberry filling to seep into the cake.

Step 3
Evenly spoon the strawberry pie filling across the surface of the cake. Use a rubber spatula to press the filling gently into the holes so it absorbs fully. Don’t worry if it looks messy—this means flavor is settling in.

Step 4
Spread the whipped topping smoothly over the entire cake. Be gentle to avoid disturbing the filling layer underneath. Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set.

Step 5
Just before serving, decorate the top with freshly sliced strawberries. Cut into squares and enjoy this light, fruity dessert.

Beginner Tips and Notes

If your strawberries are extra juicy, dry them with a paper towel before decorating to keep the whipped topping from becoming soggy.
If your pie filling is too thick to spread easily, warm it slightly to make it more manageable.
Avoid poking holes too close together or too deep; the cake may fall apart.
No wooden spoon handle? Try a thick straw or chopstick. Skip forks—they make holes too small for the filling to seep in.
Make it ahead of time! This cake actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Easy Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake with a refreshing glass of lemonade or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic summer treat.
Looking for a more decadent twist? Drizzle with melted white chocolate or serve alongside a tangy lemon curd.
To store leftovers, cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to two days.

Conclusion

This Easy Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of summer, simplicity, and the joy of baking something beautiful with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner or just short on time, this lemon herb cake alternative offers a sweet slice of success. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Drop a comment below and share your favorite twist on this quick and healthy meal in dessert form. Happy baking!

FAQ About Easy Strawberry Shortcake Poke Cake

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• Easy Boston Cream Poke Cake
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• White Chocolate Raspberry Poke Cake

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