Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cupcakes: A Sweet and Juicy Delight

There’s something magical about a dessert that combines the fluffiness of a cupcake with the refreshing, fruity burst of strawberry Jell-O. These Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cupcakes are not just visually stunning but also incredibly moist and flavorful. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of vanilla cake soaked with vibrant strawberry gelatin, topped with a luscious whipped cream frosting.

This recipe is perfect for parties, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a fun and festive dessert. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, using a simple boxed cake mix and instant Jell-O, ensuring a hassle-free baking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cupcakes will become a go-to treat in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious cupcakes:

Ingredient	Quantity
Vanilla cake mix	1 box (15.25 oz)
Eggs	As per cake mix instructions
Vegetable oil	As per cake mix instructions
Water	As per cake mix instructions
Strawberry Jell-O mix	1 box (3 oz)
Boiling water	1 cup
Cold water	½ cup
Whipped topping (Cool Whip)	8 oz
Powdered sugar	¼ cup (optional, for sweeter frosting)
Fresh strawberries	For garnish

Optional Substitutions & Notes

• You can use white cake mix instead of vanilla for a more neutral flavor.
• If you want a homemade touch, replace the boxed mix with your own vanilla cupcake batter.
• Try using raspberry or cherry Jell-O for a different fruity twist.

Equipment Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools:

• Mixing bowls – For combining cake batter and Jell-O mixture.
• Hand or stand mixer – Makes mixing faster and ensures smooth batter.
• Cupcake pan & liners – Essential for shaping and baking the cupcakes.
• Fork or skewer – To poke holes into the cupcakes for the Jell-O to soak in.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Ensures precise ingredient measurements.
• Piping bag (optional) – For a professional frosting finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, prepare the cake mix according to package instructions, combining eggs, oil, and water. Mix until smooth.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
5. Bake according to the cake mix instructions, usually for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before moving to the next step.

2. Prepare the Strawberry Jell-O

1. In a medium bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
2. Add ½ cup of cold water, mix well, and let it cool slightly but not set.

3. Poke & Soak

1. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of each cooled cupcake.
2. Carefully spoon the Jell-O mixture over each cupcake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
3. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the Jell-O set inside the cupcakes.

4. Frosting & Garnish

1. In a bowl, mix Cool Whip and powdered sugar until well combined.
2. Pipe or spread the whipped topping over the chilled cupcakes.
3. Top with fresh strawberry slices for an elegant touch.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer frosting, use homemade whipped cream by beating 1 cup heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons sugar until soft peaks form.
• Want more strawberry flavor? Add diced strawberries to the whipped topping.
• To make it extra festive, sprinkle red and pink sugar crystals on top.
• Make them kid-friendly by letting children help poke holes and drizzle Jell-O.
• For a boozy twist, replace some of the cold water with a splash of strawberry liqueur.

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes shine on their own, but pairing them with complementary treats can elevate the experience:

• Serve with a berry coulis drizzle for extra flavor.
• A side of vanilla ice cream enhances the creamy, fruity contrast.
• Pair with a glass of strawberry lemonade or rosé for a refreshing touch.
• Display on a cupcake stand with edible flowers for an eye-catching presentation.

Best Drink Pairings

The fruity and creamy elements of these cupcakes pair well with:

• Strawberry milkshake – Enhances the strawberry theme.
• Sparkling rosé – Complements the sweetness without overpowering.
• Iced coffee or latte – Balances the sweetness with a hint of bitterness.
• Champagne – Adds elegance to any celebration.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep them chilled since the whipped topping is perishable.

Freezing

• Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

Reheating (if needed)

• If serving from the fridge, let cupcakes sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying.

Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	190-220
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	8g
Protein	2g
Sugar	20g
Sodium	180mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of soft, fluffy cake and a burst of juicy strawberry flavor, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Their vibrant red streaks, created by the Jell-O infusion, add a playful and eye-catching touch, while the light and airy whipped topping provides a creamy contrast. Whether served at birthday parties, summer picnics, or holiday gatherings, these cupcakes always bring a sense of fun and nostalgia to the table. Plus, with their simple preparation using boxed cake mix and instant Jell-O, they’re an effortless yet impressive dessert anyone can master.

If you’re looking for a sweet, refreshing, and crowd-pleasing dessert, these cupcakes are a must-try! The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with different flavors, toppings, and decorations to suit your taste. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the fruity, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cupcakes. And don’t forget to share your creations—whether at a party or on social media, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit!