Strawberry Poke Cake America's Test Kitchen
Introduction
Strawberry poke cake is a classic American dessert that is loved by many. It is a delicious and refreshing cake that is perfect for any occasion. The cake is made by poking holes in a vanilla cake and filling them with strawberry Jell-O. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that is bursting with strawberry flavor. In this article, we will guide you on how to make the perfect strawberry poke cake using America's Test Kitchen recipe.
Ingredients
For the cake, you will need:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
For the strawberry Jell-O filling, you will need:
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (3-ounce) package strawberry Jell-O
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
For the whipped cream frosting, you will need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 13x9-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the cake batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes.
Step 4: Make the strawberry Jell-O filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the boiling water and strawberry Jell-O until the Jell-O is completely dissolved.
Add the cold water and ice cubes and stir until the ice has melted.
Step 5: Poke holes in the cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Be sure to poke all the way down to the bottom of the cake.
Step 6: Pour the Jell-O filling over the cake
Pour the strawberry Jell-O filling over the cake, making sure to fill all the holes.
Step 7: Chill the cake
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the Jell-O is set, about 2 hours.
Step 8: Make the whipped cream frosting
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 9: Frost the cake
Spoon the whipped cream frosting over the top of the cake and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Conclusion
Strawberry poke cake is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion. By following the steps above, you can easily make the perfect strawberry poke cake using America's Test Kitchen recipe. With its moist and flavorful cake and its sweet and creamy whipped cream frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.