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A slice of white cake with red and blue patches, topped with white frosting and blue and red sprinkles, sits on a white plate.
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5 from 1 vote

Red, White and Blue Poke Cake (4th of July Dessert)

This festive 4th of July poke cake is easy, colorful, and delicious! A soft white cake soaked in red and blue Jello, topped with whipped topping and sprinkles, perfect for any patriotic party.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Chill time3 hours
Total Time3 hours 40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: 4 th of July, poke cake
Servings: 12
Calories: 182kcal
Author: Sophie Viau

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups
  • Whisk or hand mixer
  • Fork or wooden spoon handle (for poking holes)
  • Spoon or squeeze bottle
  • Refrigerator

Ingredients

  • 1 box 15.5 oz white cake mix plus ingredients listed on box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
  • 1 box 3 oz raspberry or cherry Jello
  • 1 box 3 oz berry blue Jello
  • 1 cup boiling water divided
  • ½ cup ice cold water divided
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip thawed
  • Red white & blue sprinkles for topping

Instructions

  • Prepare and bake the white cake mix in a 9x13 pan according to the package instructions. Let it cool for about 20 minutes.
  • Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the end of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the cake. You want to go about ¾ of the way down but not all the way to the bottom.
  • In separate bowls, mix each Jello packet with ½ cup boiling water. Stir until dissolved. Add ¼ cup cold water to each and stir again.
  • Carefully pour or spoon the Jello mixtures over different sections of the cake, alternating red and blue. Focus on getting it into the holes for the signature "poke" look!
  • Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  • Once chilled, spread the Cool Whip evenly over the top.
  • Decorate with patriotic sprinkles just before serving. Slice and enjoy the surprise stripes inside!

Notes

  • Slice with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to keep the colors defined.
  • Add fresh blueberries and raspberries on top for even more patriotic flair.

Nutrition

Calories: 182kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 80mg | Potassium: 21mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 33IU | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 0.03mg
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