Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of lemonade, all nestled in a moist cake. strawberry sheet pan dessert Each bite offers a refreshing burst of flavor that dances on your palate and brings memories of summer picnics flooding back. peach salad for summer. For more inspiration, check out this irresistible churro cruffins recipe.
This cake isn’t just about taste; it’s also a showstopper at gatherings. Picture it: a beautiful, vibrant pink cake topped with fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberries, making it the centerpiece of any dessert table. Whether for birthdays, picnics, or just because you deserve a treat, this cake promises to delight and impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days
- The balance of sweet and tart flavors will leave your taste buds buzzing with joy
- Its eye-catching pink hue makes it visually appealing, ensuring it stands out at any gathering
- Plus, you can easily customize it with different fruits or toppings based on your preferences
The first time I made this cake, my family couldn’t get enough of it. Their smiles were priceless as they savored each slice.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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White Cake Mix: A simple base that provides a fluffy texture; just add eggs and water for ease.
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Lemonade Concentrate: This adds tanginess; make sure to choose a quality brand for the best flavor.
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Cream Cheese: Softened for easy mixing; it gives the cake a rich, creamy flavor.
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Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture perfectly; sift it for smoothness if needed.
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Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness; they add both flavor and vibrant color.
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Whipped Topping: Opt for store-bought or homemade; it adds lightness and creaminess to the final presentation.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking when serving.
Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, and eggs. Blend well until smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed!
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. no bake cheesecake option Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Poke Holes in the Cake: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly for 10 minutes. Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top; this lets the lemonade seep in.
Add Lemonade Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix lemonade concentrate with water according to package instructions. Slowly pour this mixture over the warm cake so it soaks in beautifully.
Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Spread evenly over cooled cake for extra richness. For more inspiration, check out this easy sugar cookie frosting recipe.
Add Toppings: Finish by spreading whipped topping over the cream cheese layer and adorning with fresh sliced strawberries on top.
Now step back and admire your creation! Your Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake is ready to be devoured by friends and family alike.
Enjoy every refreshing bite while basking in compliments about your delightful dessert!
You Must Know
- Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a sweet and tangy flavor profile
- The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the cake, making each bite a refreshing treat
- This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings and will impress your friends and family!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the cake first, then let it cool completely before poking holes for the filling. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries. Experimenting with different fruits can create exciting new flavors in your poke cake.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to let the cake cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer; this prevents melting
- Use fresh strawberries for better flavor, as frozen ones can water down your poke cake
- Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps your cake light and fluffy!
Creating my first Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake was a memorable adventure; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing it tasted on a hot day!
FAQ
Can I use sugar-free ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! Sugar-free cake mix and cream cheese work well for a lighter option.
How long does it take to bake the cake?
The baking time usually takes around 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F until golden brown.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance; just store it properly in the fridge.
Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing taste of summer with this Strawberry Lemonade Cream Cheese Poke Cake. This delightful dessert features a moist white cake infused with tangy lemonade, layered with rich cream cheese frosting, and topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, this vibrant cake is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup lemonade concentrate (thawed)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the white cake mix, eggs, and water until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes, then poke holes all over the top using a fork.
- In a separate bowl, mix lemonade concentrate with water according to package instructions. Pour over the warm cake to soak in.
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth, then spread over the cooled cake.
- Top with whipped topping and fresh strawberries before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 115g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
