Strawberry Poke Cake

Name: Strawberry Poke Cake (Box Mix)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 47 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15.25 oz) box strawberry cake mix; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling; 1 (8 oz) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed; 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced for garnish

Strawberry poke cake is an easy dessert that starts with a box mix cake, gets poked and soaked in sweetened condensed milk, then topped with strawberry pie filling, whipped cream, and fresh berries for a moist, fruity treat.

🌍American 🏷️Strawberry cake 🏷️Poke cake 🏷️Dessert 🏷️Easy recipe Box mix hack

🏷️

🏷️Whipped topping

-0:00

4bettyg23onTikTok

Total

47 min

Servings

12

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$17–$28

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok · by 4bettyg23

-0:00

4bettyg23onTikTok

Ingredients

1 (15.25 oz) box strawberry cake mix
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
1 (8 oz) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced for garnishoptional

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Instructions

1
In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, softened butter, milk, and eggs.
2
Using a hand mixer, beat the ingredients until the batter is smooth.
3
Pour the batter into a 9x13 inch baking pan.
4
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
5
Bake for approximately 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6
Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface.
7
Pour the can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the warm cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
8
Allow the cake to cool completely. For best results, refrigerate for 2-3 hours or overnight.
9
To make the topping, combine the strawberry pie filling and thawed whipped topping in a separate bowl. Mix well.
10
Spread the topping mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
11
Garnish with diced fresh strawberries, if desired.
12
Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Poke the warm cake all over with a fork or skewer to create deep holes for the sweetened condensed milk to absorb evenly and maximize moisture.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the entire cake surface slowly, allowing it to soak in rather than running off the sides.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before adding the whipped topping and berries so the cake sets and flavors meld.
Add the whipped topping and fresh strawberries no more than 2–3 hours before serving to prevent sogginess.

Substitutions

Strawberry pie filling → cherry or raspberry pie filling (maintains texture and moisture)
Sweetened condensed milk → evaporated milk mixed with sugar (adjust sweetness to taste)
Frozen whipped topping → homemade whipped cream (whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla)

Storage & make-ahead

Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Serve chilled; do not freeze, as the whipped topping will separate when thawed.

Common Questions

What does 'poke' mean in poke cake?

Poking holes in the baked cake allows the sweetened condensed milk to soak into the cake, making it extra moist and adding flavor throughout.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake and poke it the day before, then refrigerate. Add the whipped topping and fresh strawberries just before serving.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can substitute the strawberry pie filling with fresh strawberries mixed with a little sugar or strawberry jam, though the pie filling adds moisture and is easier to spread.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Poke the entire cake thoroughly while still warm so the sweetened condensed milk soaks in evenly. Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.