Description
Pioneer Woman Strawberry Poke Cake delivers sweet summer charm with its luscious layers of moist white cake, creamy strawberry filling, and billowy whipped topping. Strawberry lovers will savor each rich, fruity bite of this classic dessert that promises pure indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds strawberries
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
Gelatin and Flavoring:
- 1 (3-ounce) box strawberry gelatin
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Additional Components:
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by adjusting the oven rack to the lower third position and heating to 350°F (175°C). Generously coat a 9-by-13-inch (23-by-33-centimeter) baking pan with unsalted butter to prevent sticking.
- Create the dry ingredient mixture by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- In a separate bowl, blend buttermilk and pure vanilla extract, creating a smooth liquid mixture that will enhance the cake’s moisture and flavor profile.
- Using an electric mixer, cream granulated sugar and softened butter until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a uniform batter.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk mixture into the butter mixture, alternating between the two. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which could result in a dense cake.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure consistent baking and a smooth top surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean with minimal crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for approximately 30 minutes, creating a stable surface for the next steps.
- Using a fork, carefully create multiple holes across the entire surface of the cake, allowing the gelatin mixture to penetrate deeply.
- Dissolve strawberry gelatin powder completely in 1 cup (240 milliliters) of boiling water, then add 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of cold water to achieve the right consistency.
- Slowly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes and covers the entire surface evenly.
- Refrigerate the cake for 2 hours, allowing the gelatin to set and infuse the cake with strawberry flavor.
- Prepare the whipped cream topping by combining heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until stiff peaks form, creating a light and airy texture.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cake, creating a smooth and elegant finish.
- Garnish with freshly sweetened strawberries just before serving to add a vibrant and fruity element to the dessert.
Notes
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to enhance its creamy texture and allow flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Macerate strawberries by sprinkling sugar over them and letting them rest at room temperature, creating a natural syrup that intensifies their sweetness and softens their texture.
- Fresh strawberries work best when they’re ripe and in season, delivering maximum flavor and juiciness to the dessert.
- Carefully wrap the cake in plastic wrap before chilling to prevent it from absorbing other refrigerator odors.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, smooth slices when serving the chilled cake.
- Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, maintaining its delicious taste and creamy consistency.
- Room temperature ingredients ensure smoother mixing and a more even cake texture, so remove cream cheese and eggs from the fridge 30 minutes before starting.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent air bubbles that can cause cracking during baking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 466 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 57 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg