Valentine’s Day Poke Cake

Name: Valentine’s Day Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1 cup water; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin; 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping; 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries

Published: February 13, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Valentine’s Day Poke Cake

This incredible Valentine’s Day Poke Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Valentine’s Day Poke Cake:

Boxed Vanilla Cake Mix: Grab your favorite brand; this will be the base of our luscious cake.
Eggs: You’ll need three large eggs to give the cake its fluffy texture.
Water: Use one cup of water to mix with the cake mix and eggs.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient adds moisture and sweetness; trust me, it’s divine!
Strawberry Gelatin: This will infuse the cake with a burst of fruity flavor—perfect for Valentine’s!
Whipped Topping: For that scrumptious fluffy frosting on top; you can substitute with whipped cream if preferred.
Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries not only add flavor but make the cake look like a work of art!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Valentine’s Day Poke Cake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to ensure an easy release.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the boxed vanilla cake mix, eggs, and water. Beat for about two minutes until smooth and well combined. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Create Poke Holes

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes all over the warm cake—this allows all that delicious goodness to seep in!

Step 5: Mix Gelatin and Milk

In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and strawberry gelatin until fully dissolved. Pour this mixture evenly over the poked cake so it seeps into all those little holes.

Step 6: Chill and Top

Let your masterpiece cool completely before spreading whipped topping on top. Garnish with sliced strawberries for added flair! Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Transfer to plates and enjoy every bite of this delightful dessert that screams love from every morsel!

You Must Know About Valentine’s Day Poke Cake

This showstopping Valentine’s Day Poke Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by baking the cake according to package instructions. Once cooled, poke holes throughout with a fork. Pour your chosen flavored gelatin over the cake to let it seep in. Finally, top with whipped cream for a stunning finish.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to switch up the flavors! Use different gelatin flavors like raspberry or lime for variety. Additionally, consider adding fresh fruit on top or mixing in chocolate chips for an extra indulgence and a fun twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Valentine’s Day Poke Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For best results, enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge without reheating; trust me, it tastes divine!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Valentine’s Day Poke Cake

This professional-quality Valentine’s Day Poke Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up this Valentine’s Day Poke Cake just to see the delighted faces of my friends when they take their first bite—it’s like giving them a hug made of sweetness!

FAQs

What is Valentine’s Day Poke Cake?

Valentine’s Day Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a moist cake with a sweet, colorful filling. This cake is made by baking a simple vanilla or chocolate cake, then poking holes throughout its surface. The holes are filled with a mixture of flavored gelatin or syrup, creating a vibrant and flavorful treat. It’s often topped with whipped cream and decorative sprinkles to make it festive for the occasion. This cake not only tastes delicious but also offers an impressive visual appeal, making it perfect for celebrating love on Valentine’s Day.

How do you make Valentine’s Day Poke Cake?

To prepare a Valentine’s Day Poke Cake, start by baking your favorite cake according to the recipe. Once cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly across the top. Prepare your gelatin mixture and pour it over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. After chilling in the fridge for several hours, frost the cake with whipped cream and add sprinkles or fresh berries for decoration. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dessert irresistible!

Can I customize my Valentine’s Day Poke Cake?

Absolutely! Customizing your Valentine’s Day Poke Cake is easy and fun. You can choose different flavors of gelatin to match your theme or even use fruit purees for a unique twist. Consider adding layers of cream cheese frosting or incorporating fresh strawberries between layers for added flavor. You can also experiment with various toppings, such as chocolate shavings or edible flowers, to personalize your cake for that special someone.

How long does Valentine’s Day Poke Cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your Valentine’s Day Poke Cake can last up to 3-5 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal freshness and flavor. If you notice any changes in texture or taste after this period, it’s advisable to discard the leftover cake. Enjoy it while it’s fresh for the best experience!

Conclusion

In conclusion, making a delicious Valentine’s Day Poke Cake is an enjoyable way to celebrate love with friends and family. With its moist texture infused with vibrant flavors, this dessert stands out at any gathering. Customize it to suit your taste preferences and impress your loved ones with both presentation and flavor. Whether you stick to traditional flavors or explore new combinations, a Valentine’s Day Poke Cake will surely be a hit!