Indulge in the refreshing taste of summer with our Strawberry Lemonade Poke Delight! This delightful poke cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a luscious treat bursting with fruity flavors and a dreamy cream cheese filling. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe combines the best of strawberries and lemonade to create a heavenly combination that will evoke memories of sunny days.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Lemonade Poke Delight is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it features a light and airy cake that is perfectly moist due to the poke method, allowing delicious flavors to seep in. Second, the cream cheese layer adds a rich, tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the cake and the tartness of the lemonade. Finally, it’s incredibly versatile; you can add sliced strawberries, lemon slices, or even other seasonal fruits as a delightful topping.
Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Lemonade Poke Delight
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending.
- Let the cake cool completely before poking holes to prevent it from falling apart.
- For a richer flavor, opt for fresh lemonade instead of concentrate.
- Chill the cake overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with fresh fruit toppings to customize your poke cake.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful Strawberry Lemonade Poke Delight that serves 12:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 1 small box strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup water
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup oil
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup frozen lemonade concentrate
- 5 oz evaporated milk
- 1 small box lemon pudding mix
- 1 tub whipped topping
- Optional: sliced strawberries, lemon slices for garnish
Directions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Strawberry Lemonade Poke Delight:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, prepare the strawberry cake mix according to the package instructions, incorporating eggs, water, oil, and strawberry gelatin.
- Step 2: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Step 3: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and poke holes across the top using the end of a wooden spoon or a straw while it is still warm.
- Step 4: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Step 5: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Then mix in the frozen lemonade concentrate until combined.
- Step 6: In another bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix with the evaporated milk until smooth. Fold this mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
- Step 7: Pipe the cream cheese mixture into the holes of the cooled cake, then spread the remaining mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
- Step 8: Cover the cake and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to chill and set.
- Step 9: Before serving, top with whipped topping and garnish with sliced strawberries and lemon slices if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other flavors of cake mix, such as lemon or vanilla, to give it a unique twist.
2. How long can I store the cake?
The Strawberry Lemonade Poke Delight can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, covered tightly to maintain freshness.
3. Can I freeze this cake?
While you can freeze the cake, it is best to freeze it unassembled (without the cream cheese layer) to maintain the texture.
4. What can I use instead of frozen lemonade concentrate?
You can use fresh lemonade, but keep in mind the taste and consistency might differ slightly.
5. Can I add other fruits to this cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or kiwi as toppings or even mixed into the cream cheese layer.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Lemonade Poke Delight is the perfect dessert for summer gatherings and brings on the sunshine with every bite. Its delightful combination of sweet strawberries and zesty lemon makes it a crowd-pleaser. With its effortless preparation and stunning presentation, this poke cake will quickly become a go-to recipe in your collection. Enjoy making this vibrant treat, and don’t forget to share it at your next get-together!