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Patriotic Poke Cake Recipe

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Patriotic Poke Cake is a vibrant and easy-to-make no-fuss dessert with layers of red and blue Jell-O that soak into a soft white cake, topped with whipped topping and festive sprinkles. Perfect for patriotic holidays like the 4th of July, this dessert is as delicious as it is visually striking.

Ingredients

1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box—typically egg whites, water, and oil)

1 box (3 oz) cherry Jell-O

1 box (3 oz) berry blue Jell-O

2 cups boiling water (1 cup per Jell-O flavor)

1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

Red, white, and blue sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the directions on the white cake mix box, typically at 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake batter as instructed and pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 15–20 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Jell-O: While the cake cools, dissolve each Jell-O flavor separately in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir each one until completely dissolved and set aside.
  3. Poke the Cake: Use the handle of a wooden spoon, a straw, or a skewer to poke holes across the entire surface of the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Be sure to poke all the way down through the cake.
  4. Add the Color: Carefully spoon the red Jell-O into half of the holes and the blue Jell-O into the remaining holes. Alternate the colors for an even distribution. Gently tap or tilt the pan to help the gelatin settle into the holes. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best results.
  5. Frost and Decorate: Once the cake is completely chilled and the gelatin has set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top. Finish with a generous sprinkle of red, white, and blue sprinkles for a festive touch.

Notes

This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for optimal results.

If you prefer a thicker cake, you can bake it in a smaller pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time.

For added texture, you can top the cake with fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries.

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