Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with vibrant flavors and a fun tropical twist, you absolutely must try this Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful marriage of moist coconut cake and bright, colorful jellos that soak into every bite, creating a juicy, refreshing texture that’s both playful and indulgent. This cake not only catches the eye with its beautiful layers but also dances on your palate with the irresistible flavors of pineapple and mango. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you want to bring a bit of sunshine to your dessert table, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your dessert lineup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that combine to create a flavorful and visually stunning dessert. Each component plays a key role in building the texture, flavor, and tropical vibe that makes the cake so special.

• 18 ounce coconut cake mix: The base of the cake, providing a moist, tender crumb with a hint of coconut flavor.
• Eggs, oil, and water (as required by cake mix): These ingredients bring the cake together, ensuring perfect texture and moisture.
• 3.4 ounces pineapple jello: Adds a tangy, tropical punch that seeps deliciously into the cake holes.
• 3.4 ounces mango jello: Offers a sweet, fruity contrast; feel free to substitute with another favorite tropical flavor if preferred.
• 8 ounces whipped topping (thawed): Adds lightness and creaminess to balance the fruity jello layers.
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut: Provides a delightful texture and enhances the coconut theme.
• Garnishes (shredded coconut, kiwi, maraschino cherries, pineapple rings): These colorful accents give the cake a festive finish and extra tropical flair.

How to Make Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Coconut Cakes

Begin by preparing two cakes using the coconut cake mix according to the directions on the box. We baked ours in round pans, but feel free to get creative and use a square or rectangular pan—any shape works perfectly with this recipe! Allow the cakes to cool for around 15 minutes before moving on.

Step 2: Create the Poke Holes

Once the cakes have cooled slightly, take a straw and poke holes about one inch apart across the entire surface of each cake. These holes are the secret to allowing the pineapple and mango jellos to soak in and infuse the cake with vibrant tropical flavors.

Step 3: Pour Pineapple Jello Over One Cake

Prepare the pineapple jello exactly as the box instructs, then pour the liquid evenly over one of the cakes, making sure it seeps into those poke holes to create bursts of fruity sweetness throughout.

Step 4: Pour Mango Jello Over the Other Cake

Next, prepare the mango jello in the same way and immediately pour it over the second cake. If you can’t find mango jello, no worries—any tropical flavor you enjoy will give this cake a unique twist.

Step 5: Refrigerate to Set

Place both cakes in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. This chilling step allows the jello to fully set and work its magic by infusing the cake with juicy flavor and beautiful color.

Step 6: Mix Whipped Topping and Coconut

Before assembling, take a small bowl and combine 1 cup of whipped topping with 1/2 cup shredded coconut. This creamy, textured mixture will be the luscious, tropical “glue” that holds your cake layers together.

Step 7: Assemble the Layers

Remove the cakes from their pans carefully. Place one cake layer on your serving plate, spread the whipped topping and coconut mixture evenly on top, then gently set the other cake layer over it. This layered construction adds visual appeal and those delicious contrasts of texture and flavor.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate the Cake

Use the remaining whipped topping to frost the outside of your cake. For an extra touch, sprinkle shredded coconut around the edges or go all out with frosting if you want a different finish. Add garnishes like vibrant kiwi slices, maraschino cherries, and pineapple rings to top it off with a festive, tropical flair.

Step 9: Slice and Enjoy

Your Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe is ready to delight friends and family! Slice it up and savor the moist, fruity, creamy layers with every bite.

How to Serve Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Using fresh kiwi slices, maraschino cherries, and pineapple rings makes the cake not only pop with color but also enhances the tropical experience. Shredded coconut sprinkled on top adds a lovely texture contrast and ties the whole flavor profile together beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve this luscious cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and passion fruit. The creamy ice cream or juicy, fresh fruits complement the cake’s flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the poke cake in individual clear dessert cups to showcase the gorgeous layered colors. You can also add a little extra flair by drizzling tropical syrup or toasted coconut flakes on top for a fancy presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed your slice (or two), store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. This Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe will stay moist, flavorful, and delicious for up to one week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. For best quality, use within two months. When ready to eat, thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is generally not necessary or recommended. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other flavors of jello for this poke cake?

Absolutely! While pineapple and mango are classic tropical choices, feel free to experiment with flavors like passion fruit, peach, or even strawberry to customize it to your tastes.

Is it necessary to poke holes in the cake?

Yes, poking holes is key because it allows the jello to seep deep into the cake, adding moisture and flavor throughout rather than just on top.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can, by substituting the coconut cake mix for a gluten-free version. Just make sure your other ingredients like jello and whipped topping are also gluten-free.

What’s the best way to prevent the cakes from sticking to the pans?

Grease your pans well and consider lining with parchment paper for easy removal. Cooling the cake completely before removing also helps it hold together smoothly.

How long should the cake set in the refrigerator after pouring the jello?

It needs at least 3 hours to let the jello fully set and infuse the cake, but overnight refrigeration will work even better for a firmer texture and richer flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Tropical Layered Poke Cake Recipe is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Its sunshine-inspired flavors and beautiful presentation will brighten any occasion, and I really hope you give it a try soon. Trust me—once you taste those juicy jello layers mingling with fluffy coconut cake and creamy whipped topping, this treat will quickly become an all-time dessert favorite in your home.

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