Jell-O Poke Cake
Adapted from the original Jell-O (Kraft Heinz) Jell-O Gelatin Dessert packaging. Back of the Bag is not affiliated with Jell-O (Kraft Heinz).
"The colorful, moist cake that was a 1970s sensation."
The Story
Commonly known as 'The Great American Poke Cake,' this recipe was launched as a print advertisement campaign to boost Jell-O sales during a period of decline. The technique of poking holes in a white cake to create internal stripes of color made it a visual hit at potlucks. It eventually became the standard back-of-the-box recipe for various Jell-O fruit flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 package (2-layer size) white cake mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 package (3 oz) Jell-O Gelatin (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip Topping, thawed
Directions
- 1
Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box and bake in a 13x9-inch pan. Cool for 15 minutes.
- 2
Poke holes in the cake with a large fork or the handle of a wooden spoon at 1-inch intervals.
- 3
Stir boiling water into the gelatin mix in a small bowl for 2 minutes until dissolved. Stir in cold water.
- 4
Carefully pour the gelatin liquid into the holes in the cake.
- 5
Refrigerate the cake for 3 hours.
- 6
Spread Cool Whip over the top of the cake before serving.