Introduction
Welcome to dessert heaven! If you’re ready for a treat that’s bursting with fruity goodness and creamy delight, then this Strawberry Creme Passion Poke Cake is just the recipe for you. Picture a moist, vanilla cake soaked in sweet strawberry gelatin, topped with a luscious cream cheese layer, fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of passion fruit juice. It’s a dessert that not only looks stunning but tastes absolutely divine. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this poke cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 (3.4 oz) box of strawberry flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup passion fruit juice
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your cake comes out perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, 1 cup of water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake according to the package directions, which should take about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- When the cake is cool, grab a fork and poke holes all over the top. These holes will allow the delicious strawberry gelatin to soak in!
- In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, then stir in 1 cup of cold water. Pour this vibrant gelatin mixture evenly over the poked cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, allowing the gelatin to set and the flavors to meld.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a wonderfully fluffy topping.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Gradually fold in the whipped cream until well mixed for a rich, creamy layer.
- Spread the luscious cream cheese mixture over the top of the set cake, smoothing it out to create an inviting layer.
- Top the cake with sliced strawberries and drizzle with fresh passion fruit juice for that tropical flair.
- Finally, garnish with fresh mint leaves to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For a visual treat, try using a mix of different berries on top for added color and flavor. You can adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese layer by adding more or less powdered sugar according to your taste preference. If you like an extra zing, a splash of lemon juice in the cream cheese mixture can elevate the flavors nicely!
Cooking Techniques
Poke cakes are a delightful and easy way to infuse flavor into a traditional cake. The technique of poking holes allows the sweet gelatin or sauce to permeate deeply into the cake, producing a moist, flavorful dessert. Be careful not to poke too aggressively, so the cake maintains its structure. When mixing the whipped cream, be sure not to overbeat, or you’ll end up with butter instead of a fluffy topping!
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin? Absolutely! While strawberry is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other flavors like raspberry or cherry for a unique twist.
How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they meld!
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes! This cake is perfect for making ahead of an event. Just prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Creme Passion Poke Cake is a captivating dessert that marries flavors and textures beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, each slice is bound to bring a smile to your face. With its vibrant layers and delightful sweetness, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delightful creation!