This easy, luscious dessert combines fluffy cake, sweet strawberry filling, and pillowy whipped topping for a showstopping treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings or anytime cravings strike!
Why You’ll Love It
✅ 5-minute prep – Starts with a boxed cake mix!
🍓 Bursting with strawberry flavor – Juicy pie filling soaks into every bite.
💨 Light & airy – Whipped topping keeps it refreshing.
🎂 Feeds a crowd – Ideal for potlucks and parties.
Ingredients
*(Serves 12-15)*
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1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix + ingredients listed on box (eggs, oil, water)
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3 cups strawberry pie filling (~1½ cans, 21 oz total)
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8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade), thawed
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2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Optional garnish:
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Mint leaves
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White chocolate shavings
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Cake
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Prepare cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13″ pan.
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Let cool 15 minutes, then poke holes all over with a fork or wooden spoon.
2. Add Strawberry Filling
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Warm pie filling slightly (to make it pourable) and spread evenly over cake, pressing into holes.
3. Chill & Top
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Refrigerate 1 hour to set.
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Spread whipped topping over cake, then arrange sliced strawberries on top.
4. Serve
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Slice and enjoy! Best served cold.
Pro Tips
🔸 Extra moist: Brush cake with 1 tbsp strawberry syrup before adding filling.
🔸 Homemade filling: Simmer 2 cups mashed strawberries + ¼ cup sugar + 1 tbsp cornstarch until thickened.
🔸 Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance (add fresh strawberries just before serving).
Variations
🍑 Peach Shortcake: Use peach pie filling + fresh peaches.
🍫 Chocolate Strawberry: Swap cake mix for chocolate.
🍋 Lemon Berry: Use lemon cake + mixed berries.
Storage
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Fridge: Cover and keep for 3 days.
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Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for 1 month (thaw overnight in fridge).
Serving Ideas
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BBQs: Pair with grilled fruit skewers.
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Bridal showers: Top with edible flowers.
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Kids’ parties: Add rainbow sprinkles!
Final Thought
This poke cake is a effortless twist on classic strawberry shortcake—juicy, creamy, and impossible to resist!
More Easy Cakes to Try:
🍍 Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
🌿 Lavender Lemon Poke Cake
🍫 Cookies & Cream Poke Cake