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Lemon Jello Poke Cake with Creamy Frosting

Moist lemon jello poke cake with creamy frosting and fresh blueberries garnish

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A bright, refreshing dessert where a tender lemon cake is poked and soaked with lemon gelatin, creating pockets of flavor, then topped with a light and creamy frosting. Perfect for potlucks and spring gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix, plus required ingredients (eggs, oil, water)
  • 1 box (3 oz) lemon gelatin
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • Zest of one lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and bake the lemon cake mix in a 9×13-inch pan according to package directions. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk the lemon gelatin powder with 1 cup of boiling water until fully dissolved, about 2 minutes. Stir in the 1/2 cup of cold water. Let the mixture cool slightly for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a chopstick, poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake, spaced about 1 inch apart and going about 3/4 of the way down.
  4. Slowly and evenly pour the slightly cooled gelatin mixture over the cake, aiming for the holes. Allow it to soak in.
  5. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.
  6. For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla until creamy.
  7. Using a spatula, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no white streaks remain. Fold in lemon zest if using. Refrigerate frosting until needed.
  8. Once the cake is chilled and set, spread the creamy frosting evenly over the top. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated.

Notes

Ensure the cake is completely cool before poking to prevent crumbling. Let the gelatin mixture cool slightly before pouring. The cake must chill for several hours to set properly. For a strawberry version, use strawberry gelatin. Store covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

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