Print

Easy Patriotic Poke Cake Recipe with Strawberry and Blueberry for 4th of July Celebration

easy patriotic poke cake - featured image

A simple, festive poke cake soaked with sweetened condensed milk and topped with fresh strawberries and blueberries, perfect for summer celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 15.25 oz yellow cake mix (recommend Betty Crocker)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup water (240 ml)
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 ml)
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (396 g can)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1 cup water, and 1/3 cup vegetable oil. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
  3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
  5. Using a toothpick or skewer, poke holes all over the top of the cake about 1 inch apart.
  6. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the warm cake. Let the cake cool completely, about 30-40 minutes.
  7. In a mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping with vanilla extract (if using) and stir gently until smooth.
  8. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
  9. Arrange sliced strawberries and whole blueberries on top in a patriotic pattern.
  10. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

If using frozen berries, thaw and drain well to avoid sogginess. Do not skip the poke step or the condensed milk pour for best moist texture. Chill cake overnight for best flavor melding. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, use appropriate substitutions as noted.

Nutrition

Keywords: poke cake, patriotic dessert, 4th of July cake, strawberry cake, blueberry cake, summer dessert, easy cake recipe