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Cherry Snow Poke Cake

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Cherry Snow Poke Cake is a light, moist white cake infused with sweet cherry gelatin, then topped with whipped cream and shredded coconut for a snowy, wintery finish. It’s easy to make, beautifully colorful, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: eggs, oil, water)

  • 1 (3 oz) box cherry Jell-O

  • 1 cup boiling water

  • ½ cup cold water

  • 1 can (20 oz) cherry pie filling (optional, for topping or layering)

For the Topping:

  • 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

  • Optional: maraschino cherries, white chocolate shavings, or sprinkles

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare white cake mix according to package instructions. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Let the cake cool for about 15 minutes.

2. Poke the Cake:

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

3. Add the Jell-O Mixture:

Dissolve the cherry Jell-O in 1 cup boiling water. Stir in ½ cup cold water. Carefully pour the Jell-O mixture evenly over the poked cake. It will seep into the holes and color the inside bright cherry red.

4. Chill the Cake:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until the Jell-O is fully set and absorbed.

5. Frost the Cake:

Once chilled, spread whipped topping evenly over the cake. Sprinkle with shredded coconut to create a “snowy” effect. Garnish with optional toppings like maraschino cherries or white chocolate shavings.


Serving Suggestions:

  • Slice and serve cold with a cherry on top.

  • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

  • Pair with a glass of cherry soda or hot cocoa.

Notes

Pro Tips:

  • Use a fork if you don’t have a wooden spoon for poking.

  • Let the Jell-O soak for at least 2 hours for full flavor infusion.

  • Add a thin layer of cherry pie filling between the cake and whipped topping for extra cherry flavor.


Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poking too few holes – you want lots for the Jell-O to soak in!

  • Pouring Jell-O too fast – do it slowly to ensure even absorption.

  • Skipping chill time – this helps flavors develop and the cake set properly.


Storage Instructions:

  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.

  • Best served chilled straight from the fridge.

  • Not ideal for freezing once frosted (due to whipped topping texture).


 

Enjoy your Cherry Snow Poke Cake — it’s a magical winter dessert that’s delicious year-round!