If you’re searching for a delightful and eye-catching dessert that’s both refreshing and bursting with flavor, this Strawberry Jello Cake with Fresh Fruit and Whipped Topping Recipe is absolutely the one to try. It perfectly combines moist white cake with sweet strawberry Jello soaked deep into every bite, topped with creamy pudding-whipped topping and crowned by juicy fresh strawberries. Each element harmonizes to create a show-stopping treat that’s as fun to make as it is to enjoy with friends and family. You’ll soon discover why this dessert quickly becomes a favorite at any gathering, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and texture in every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple but essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this cake. Each component plays a special role, from creating a tender cake base to layering fruity freshness and light creaminess on top.
- 14.25-ounce box white cake mix: Provides a moist and fluffy foundation that’s easy to prepare and ensures consistent results.
- 3 large eggs: Help bind the cake ingredients together and add richness for that perfect crumb.
- 1 cup water: Moistens the cake mix for a tender texture, exactly as specified on the box instructions.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake soft and moist for days.
- 1 ½ cups boiling water: Used to dissolve the strawberry Jello, allowing it to soak into the cake perfectly.
- 3-ounce box strawberry Jello: Infuses the cake with vibrant color and sweet strawberry flavor.
- 2 to 3 cups coarsely chopped fresh strawberries: Bring natural fruity brightness and a lovely burst of fresh flavor.
- 3.4-ounce box instant vanilla pudding mix: Creates a creamy, silky layer that pairs beautifully with the whipped topping.
- ¾ cup milk: Needed to prepare the pudding; adds creaminess to the frosting layer.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the pudding’s flavor, rounding out the sweetness with warm vanilla notes.
- 8-ounce container frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed: Gives that luscious, fluffy finish that makes every bite feel indulgent and light.
How to Make Strawberry Jello Cake with Fresh Fruit and Whipped Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This ensures your cake will bake evenly and come out effortlessly when it’s done.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Mix the cake according to package instructions using the eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step gives you a tender, golden cake that will soak up all the delicious Jello juice.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Jello
While the cake cooks, dissolve the strawberry Jello in 1 ½ cups boiling water by stirring for about 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Set it aside to cool slightly — this step is key to perfectly infuse flavor without melting the cake.
Step 4: Soak the Cake with Jello
Allow the baked cake to cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Then, using a wooden skewer or chopstick, poke holes evenly across the top of the cake about ¾ of the way down. Gradually pour the slightly cooled Jello over the cake, filling each hole carefully so every bite will be bursting with strawberry flavor. Let the cake cool further for 15 to 30 minutes before covering it with foil and chilling in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Make the Whipped Pudding Topping
Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth, then gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain. This creates a velvety, creamy topping that contrasts beautifully with the fruity cake base.
Step 6: Spread and Garnish
Spread the pudding and whipped topping mixture evenly over the chilled cake. Just before serving, scatter the fresh chopped strawberries on top to add a pop of juicy sweetness and a stunning finishing touch.
How to Serve Strawberry Jello Cake with Fresh Fruit and Whipped Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation by adding a few mint leaves or edible flowers alongside fresh strawberry slices for a vibrant, elegant look. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate, snowy finish that’s sure to wow guests.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple glass of cold milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness. For brunch or afternoon tea, serve alongside light finger sandwiches or fresh fruit salad to create a well-rounded spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Strawberry Jello Cake with Fresh Fruit and Whipped Topping Recipe in individual mason jars or trifle bowls layered with extra fruit and whipped topping for a stunning visual effect. Alternatively, cut the cake into bite-sized squares and thread on skewers with grapes and berries for a fun, finger-food dessert option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This dessert stays moist and delicious for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without worry.
Freezing
This cake is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate pudding and whipped topping layers, which can separate or become watery after thawing. If you do freeze it, thaw slowly in the refrigerator and expect a slight change in texture.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled, no-bake topping dessert, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Serve straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of Jello for this cake?
Absolutely! While strawberry is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with raspberry, cherry, or even tropical flavors to change things up and make the cake your own.
Is fresh fruit necessary or can I use frozen?
Fresh fruit gives the best texture and flavor, but frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained properly. Just be sure to avoid excess moisture that could make the cake soggy.
Can I make the cake gluten-free?
To make this gluten-free, simply substitute your white cake mix with a gluten-free version, making sure it’s of similar weight and volume for best results.
What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?
You can substitute homemade vanilla pudding made from scratch, but instant pudding simplifies the process and guarantees consistent, thick results perfect for folding into whipped topping.
How far in advance can I make this cake?
This cake tastes best when made the day before to allow the Jello to fully soak into the cake and the flavors to meld. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Jello Cake with Fresh Fruit and Whipped Topping Recipe is one of those desserts that brings pure joy every time it’s served. Its colorful layers, refreshing flavors, and irresistible textures make it a standout dessert for any season or celebration. I hope you enjoy making it as much as sharing it with your loved ones. Give it a try — I have no doubt it’ll become a cherished favorite on your recipe list!
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Strawberry Jello Cake with Fresh Fruit and Whipped Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delightful Jello Cake combines a moist white cake base with a vibrant strawberry Jello infusion, topped with creamy vanilla pudding frosting and fresh strawberries. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat, it’s a colorful and flavorful dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 14.25 ounce box white cake mix (e.g., Betty Crocker Super Moist)
- 3 large eggs (or as indicated on cake mix)
- 1 cup water (or as indicated on cake mix)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or as indicated on cake mix)
Jello Mixture
- 1 ½ cups boiling water
- 3 ounce box strawberry Jello
Frosting Ingredients
- 3.4 ounce box instant vanilla pudding mix
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 8 ounce container frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip, thawed)
Topping
- 2 to 3 cups coarsely chopped fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the cake won’t stick.
- Mix and Bake Cake: Prepare the white cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box using the eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 28 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Dissolve Jello: Just before the cake finishes baking, place the strawberry Jello powder in a small bowl and add the 1 ½ cups boiling water. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Cool Cake and Pierce Holes: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. While cooling, slightly cool the dissolved Jello. Using a wooden skewer or chopstick, pierce holes about 1 to 1 ½ inches apart, approximately ¾ of the way down into the cake and about 1 inch from the edge. If using a thin skewer, gently twist to enlarge holes slightly.
- Pour Jello over Cake: Gradually pour the cooled Jello mixture over the cake, ensuring the liquid fills each pierced hole. Let the cake cool further for 15 to 30 minutes until the bottom of the pan feels cool. Carefully cover the dish with foil without disturbing the top and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Prepare Frosting: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and thickened. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until no streaks remain.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the pudding frosting evenly over the chilled Jello cake once it has set in the refrigerator.
- Add Fresh Strawberries: Just before serving, scatter the coarsely chopped fresh strawberries evenly over the top of the frosted cake for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes
- Using a wooden skewer or chopstick is key to making holes without damaging the cake excessively.
- Cool the Jello mixture slightly before adding to the cake to prevent melting the cake’s surface.
- Refrigerating the cake overnight enhances flavor melding and firmness.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best texture and taste contrast on top of the creamy frosting.
- This cake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator covered with foil for up to 3 days.
