Too hot to turn on the oven for long? This strawberry jello cake is for you. It is the ultimate refreshing treat for a warm summer day. Your family will love every cool, creamy bite.
This cake delivers a burst of fresh berry flavor. It stays moist and light even on the hottest afternoons. It is the perfect way to celebrate summer with your loved ones.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This cake is perfect for busy summer potlucks. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. Even beginner bakers can master this recipe with ease.
Everyone loves the bright strawberry flavor and light texture. It is truly kid-approved and family-friendly. You can prep it early and forget about it until dessert time.
Simple Method
Making this cake is surprisingly simple and fun. You just bake a white cake and poke holes. Then, you pour strawberry gelatin over the top. It is a beginner-friendly dessert that always impresses guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find.
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Combine cake mix, 1 cup water, oil, and eggs in a large bowl and mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool for 20 minutes.
- Use a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the entire surface of the cake at 1-inch intervals.
- In a medium bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in 1/2 cup cold water.
- Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to allow the gelatin to set.
- Spread whipped topping evenly over the surface of the cake.
- Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this cake chilled right from the fridge. It looks beautiful with fresh sliced strawberries on top. Pair it with a glass of cold lemonade or iced tea. It is the perfect end to a backyard BBQ.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Keep it covered so the whipped topping stays fresh. This is a great make-ahead dessert for parties. The flavor actually gets better as it sits and chills.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip the cooling time before poking holes.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon for larger holes.
- Pour the gelatin slowly to ensure even distribution.
- Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- For potlucks, keep the cake in a cooler until serving.
- Wipe your knife between cuts for clean slices.
- Try a sugar-free gelatin for a lighter option.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap strawberry for lime jello for a citrus twist.
- Use a yellow cake mix for a richer flavor.
- Add blueberries on top for a patriotic summer look.
- Use dairy-free whipped topping to suit dietary needs.
Common Questions
Can I make this cake the night before?
Yes, this cake is actually better when made ahead. It needs at least four hours to set properly. Making it the night before saves you valuable party prep time.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries work best for the garnish. Frozen berries can become mushy as they thaw. If you use frozen, add them just before serving.
How do I know the jello is set?
The cake will feel firm and cool to the touch. The liquid will be fully absorbed into the sponge. Patience is key for the perfect texture.
I hope this refreshing strawberry jello cake brings a smile to your summer table. It is a simple joy that your whole family will love. Enjoy every sweet, cool bite!
— Lidia
Strawberry Jello Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 1 cup wate r
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large egg s
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Combine cake mix, 1 cup water, oil, and eggs in a large bowl and mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool for 20 minutes.
- Use a fork or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the entire surface of the cake at 1-inch intervals.
- In a medium bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, then stir in 1/2 cup cold water.
- Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to allow the gelatin to set.
- Spread whipped topping evenly over the surface of the cake.
- Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries before serving.
