Strawberry Gelatin Cake (Printable)

Moist cake topped with whipped cream and infused with strawberry gelatin for a refreshing warm-weather treat.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Cake Base

01 - 1 box (15 oz) white or yellow cake mix
02 - Ingredients required on cake mix package (typically eggs, vegetable oil, water)

→ Strawberry Gelatin Layer

03 - 1 package (3 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin
04 - 1 cup boiling water
05 - 1/2 cup cold water

→ Topping & Garnish

06 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
07 - 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
08 - Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Prepare cake batter according to package instructions, incorporating required eggs, oil, and water. Spread batter evenly in prepared dish and bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in center comes clean. Allow cake to cool for 20 minutes.
02 - Using the tines of a fork or handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across entire surface of cooled cake. Press down firmly, creating holes that reach nearly to bottom of dish without penetrating through. Space holes approximately 1 inch apart for optimal gelatin distribution.
03 - Combine strawberry gelatin powder with 1 cup boiling water in a medium heat-safe bowl. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until gelatin is completely dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup cold water and mix thoroughly. Let mixture cool for 3-4 minutes until slightly warm but still liquid.
04 - Slowly pour warm gelatin mixture evenly over entire surface of poked cake. Work around perimeter first, then fill center area. Allow liquid to seep into holes naturally, tilting dish gently if needed for even distribution. All gelatin should be absorbed into cake rather than pooling on surface.
05 - Refrigerate cake uncovered for minimum 2 hours or until gelatin is completely set. Cake should feel firm and gelatin should be jiggly but hold its shape when dish is gently shaken. For best results, chill overnight to allow flavors to fully meld.
06 - Spread whipped topping in an even layer over entire surface of chilled cake using an offset spatula. Arrange fresh strawberry slices in decorative pattern across top. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Cut into 12 equal squares and serve immediately, or return to refrigerator until ready to serve.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The contrast between tender cake and cool, fruity gelatin creates texture that keeps every bite interesting.
  • It comes together with almost zero effort but looks like you spent all day making something special.
02 -
  • Poking the holes while the cake is still warm will make the gelatin run right through without absorbing.
  • Chilling time is non-negotiable, at least 2 hours or the texture never sets up right.
03 -
  • Grease your baking dish generously, the gelatin can make pieces stick.
  • Room temperature whipped topping spreads like a dream.

Go Back