If you’re looking for a bright, festive, and easy Easter cake, this Easter poke cake is the perfect dessert! Made with soft vanilla cake, vibrant Easter Jello poke cake layers, and a light, fluffy topping, this recipe is a fun and delicious way to celebrate the holiday.

Whether you’re planning a cake for Easter brunch, a festive treat for kids, or looking for fun poke cakes, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, making it a great option for beginner bakers or last-minute Easter celebrations!

Why You’ll Love This Easter Poke Cake

Bright & Colorful – The swirls of pastel Jello create a beautiful Easter effect.
Soft & Moist – The poke cake method ensures every bite is infused with delicious flavor.
Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just bake, poke, pour, and chill!
Perfect for Easter Gatherings – Great for parties, potlucks, or as a Peep dessert.
Customizable – Switch up the colors, flavors, and decorations for a unique twist.

Ingredients for Easter Poke Cake

For the Cake:

1 box white cake mix (+ ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)

For the Jello Filling:

1 box (3 oz) strawberry Jello
1 box (3 oz) lemon Jello
2 cups (480ml) boiling water (1 cup per Jello flavor)

For the Topping:

1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
1 cup (120g) pastel sprinkles
Peeps marshmallow bunnies (optional for decoration)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this Easter Jello poke cake recipe, you’ll need:

Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or whisk
9×13-inch baking dish
Wooden spoon handle or straw (for poking holes)
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easter Poke Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions, adding vanilla extract for extra flavor. Bake in a 9×13-inch pan as directed. Let cool for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Jello

In separate bowls, mix strawberry Jello and lemon Jello with 1 cup boiling water each. Stir until dissolved.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes evenly across the cooled cake.

Step 4: Pour in the Jello

Carefully pour the strawberry Jello into half of the cake and the lemon Jello into the other half. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to let the Jello soak in.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake. Sprinkle with pastel sprinkles and decorate with Peeps marshmallow bunnies for a festive touch.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Slice and serve this beautiful, colorful Easter poke cake at your holiday gathering!

Expert Tips for the Best Easter Poke Cake

Use a spoon handle instead of a fork – Bigger holes allow more Jello to soak in.
Let the cake chill completely – This ensures the Jello sets properly.
Customize the Jello flavors – Try blue raspberry, lime, or orange for a colorful effect.
Use homemade whipped cream – For a richer topping, beat heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Fun Variations of Easter Poke Cake

Poke Cake Cupcakes – Bake the batter in cupcake tins and poke each cupcake before adding Jello.
Chocolate Easter Poke Cake – Use chocolate cake mix with raspberry or cherry Jello for a rich twist.
Layered Jello Poke Cake – Use multiple Jello flavors for a rainbow effect.

How to Store & Keep Your Poke Cake Fresh

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw before adding whipped topping.

Serving Ideas and Presentation Tips

Arrange Peeps in a row on top for a fun Easter bunny theme.
Drizzle with melted white chocolate for extra sweetness.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Poke Cake

Not letting the Jello fully dissolve – Stir well to avoid grainy texture.
Pouring Jello while the cake is too warm – Let the cake cool slightly first.
Skipping the chilling step – Refrigeration helps the Jello soak and set properly.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Easter Poke Cake

Fresh fruit salad with strawberries and pineapple.
Homemade lemonade for a refreshing drink.
A side of Easter Rice Krispie treats for variety.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Yes! Use your favorite homemade vanilla or white cake recipe.

2. What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
Try homemade whipped cream or stabilized whipped frosting.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until serving.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This Easter poke cake is a delightful and easy dessert that adds a pop of color and flavor to any Easter celebration. Whether you’re looking for cake ideas for Easter, a fun Peep dessert, or a simple Easter Jello poke cake recipe, this treat is sure to be a holiday favorite!

Try this easy Easter cake today and let us know how it turned out! Share your creations on social media and subscribe for more Easter poke cake recipes and festive treats!