Summer Berry Poke Cake

Name: Summer Berry Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ¼ cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Posted on June 19, 2025

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There’s something about a Summer Berry Poke Cake that makes even the hottest of days feel like a sweet escape. Picture this: a fluffy vanilla cake, drenched with luscious berry goodness, and topped with clouds of whipped cream. It’s a dessert that practically begs you to take a bite, promising an explosion of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Another delicious poke cake Just one slice can whisk you away to sun-kissed picnics and backyard barbecues, where laughter fills the air and everyone is too busy enjoying life to worry about calories. For more inspiration, check out this Berry Tartlets recipe recipe.

I remember the first time I made a Summer Berry Poke Cake for my family reunion. My cousin Bob took one look at it and exclaimed, “This looks like summer on a plate!” With each forkful, we were transported back to our childhoods—carefree days spent running through sprinklers and indulging in sweet treats. Refreshing berry beverage This cake is perfect for any occasion, be it birthdays or just because it’s Tuesday. Trust me; once you dive into this cake, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last crumb disappears.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Summer Berry Poke Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for any skill level in the kitchen
The combination of fresh berries creates a vibrant visual feast that will impress anyone
Each bite offers a delightful blend of sweetness combined with tangy fruit flavors, making it irresistible
You can easily adjust the berries used based on what’s in season or what your family loves best

One sunny afternoon, I served this cake at a picnic, and the smiles on my friends’ faces were priceless as they devoured each slice.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Vanilla Cake Mix: Use your favorite brand; it’s a great shortcut while still delivering scrumptious results.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds color and flavor; always opt for ripe ones.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This creamy treat infuses the cake with sweetness and moisture; don’t skip it!
Heavy Whipping Cream: For an ultra-fluffy topping that creates a dreamy finish; beat until soft peaks form.
Powdered Sugar: A touch of sweetness for your whipped cream; adjust based on your taste preference.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to both the cake and whipped cream; use pure extract for the best flavor.

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). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Bake the Cake: Prepare the vanilla cake mix according to package instructions. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean—about 25-30 minutes.

Poke Holes in the Cake: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the top of the warm cake.

Add Berry Goodness: In a bowl, mix together fresh berries with sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Slowly pour this berry mixture over the warm cake so it seeps into those lovely holes—this is where all the magic happens!

Prepare Whipped Topping: In another bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; continue whipping until fully incorporated and fluffy.

Top It Off!: Spread your whipped cream evenly over the cooled cake and garnish with additional fresh berries if desired. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours before serving so all those flavors meld beautifully.

Now that you have this recipe down pat, you’re ready to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every delightful bite of this Summer Berry Poke Cake—it’s bound to become your new go-to dessert for warm-weather gatherings! Festive cookies for celebrations.

This amazing Summer Berry Poke Cake is a fun twist on a classic dessert, perfect for summer gatherings. Perfect summer dessert dip Here are some important tips to enhance your baking experience.

Tip 1: Use fresh berries for the best flavor and texture. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries bring vibrancy and sweetness to your poke cake. I once used frozen berries in a pinch, and let’s just say, the cake turned into a berry mush fiesta.

Tip 2: Allow the cake to cool completely before poking holes and adding filling. This ensures the fillings seep evenly without turning into a soggy mess. Trust me; I learned this after witnessing my first poke cake transform into an unintentional pudding!

Tip 3: Top with whipped cream just before serving for maximum freshness. The lightness of whipped cream perfectly complements the rich flavors of the cake. Once, I made it ahead of time and ended up with sad, deflated whipped cream that was less than Instagram-ready.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking the cake according to package directions. Allow it to cool completely before poking holes with a skewer or fork. Pour your berry mixture over it while it’s still warm to enhance absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the berries based on what’s in season or what you love most! You can even add a splash of lemon juice for extra zest or layer in some crushed graham crackers for added crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover poke cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For optimal taste, serve chilled directly from the refrigerator rather than reheating.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure that you use room temperature eggs and ingredients for an even bake
Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, you’re golden!
Finally, try using different flavored gelatin packets for unique twists on this classic recipe

I remember making this Summer Berry Poke Cake for a family picnic last year, and watching everyone devour it within minutes while laughing and sharing stories made my day unforgettable. For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry and Spinach Salad recipe.

FAQ

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh berries?

You can use canned or frozen berries but adjust sweetness accordingly.

Can I make this poke cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is there a gluten-free version of Summer Berry Poke Cake?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.