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Patriotic Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake

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Patriotic Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake is a moist, colorful chilled dessert filled with vibrant red and blue gelatin and topped with fluffy whipped topping. Fresh berries and festive sprinkles make it perfect for Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and summer celebrations.

Ingredients

  • 1 box white cake mix, about 15.25 ounces
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup water, or amount called for on cake mix
  • 1 box red gelatin, such as strawberry, raspberry, or cherry, 3 ounces
  • 1 box blue gelatin, such as berry blue, 3 ounces
  • 1 cup boiling water, divided
  • 1 cup cold water, divided
  • 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries or fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • Red, white, and blue sprinkles, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), or the temperature specified on the cake mix package. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the white cake batter with the eggs, vegetable oil, and water according to the package directions.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
  4. Let the cake cool for 15–20 minutes. While it is still slightly warm, poke holes evenly across the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon, a skewer, or a similar utensil.
  5. Place the red gelatin in a bowl and add 1/2 cup boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved, then stir in 1/2 cup cold water.
  6. Carefully spoon or pour the red gelatin into alternating holes in the cake, leaving untouched areas for the blue gelatin.
  7. Prepare the blue gelatin separately with the remaining 1/2 cup boiling water and 1/2 cup cold water. Pour it into the remaining holes, avoiding areas already filled with red gelatin.
  8. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours or overnight until thoroughly chilled and set.
  9. Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake to create the white layer.
  10. Decorate with strawberries or raspberries and blueberries. Arrange the fruit in stripes or a flag-inspired pattern, or scatter it evenly over the top.
  11. Add red, white, and blue sprinkles if desired. Keep refrigerated until ready to slice and serve.

Notes

  • White cake provides the best contrast for the bright red and blue gelatin streaks.
  • Prepare the red and blue gelatin separately and add them to different holes to prevent the colors from blending into purple.
  • A spoon or squeeze bottle can provide extra control when adding the gelatin.
  • For a fruitier version, generously cover the whipped topping with strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
  • For an easy decoration, skip the berries and use red, white, and blue sprinkles.
  • For a creamier cake, spread a thin layer of prepared vanilla pudding over the chilled cake before adding the whipped topping.
  • The recipe can be made as cupcakes by adding small amounts of each gelatin color to holes poked into individual cupcakes.
  • Stabilized homemade whipped cream can be substituted for prepared whipped topping.
  • The cake and gelatin can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated overnight. Add fresh berries before serving for the best appearance.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and serve chilled.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/patriotic-red-white-blue-poke-cake/