This Pumpkin Jello Poke Cake combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin with a fun twist! It’s a moist cake filled with sweet pumpkin spice and topped with creamy whipped frosting.
Trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one piece! I love making this cake for fall gatherings; it always disappears fast. 🎃 Just poke, pour the jello, and watch everyone smile!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base of your cake. You can also use a spice cake mix for added flavor or a gluten-free mix if needed. I find that using a high-quality cake mix gives the best results!
Pumpkin Spice Jello: If you can’t find pumpkin spice gelatin, regular gelatin works too, just add extra pumpkin pie spice to flavor it. This will keep the pumpkin taste alive, even without the specific flavor.
Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. If you don’t have canned, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkins. It takes a bit longer but can be worth it for that fresh flavor!
Whipped Topping: If you want a homemade touch, you can whip your own heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla. It tastes richer and can be more satisfying compared to store-bought options.
How Do You Ensure the Cake Soaks Up the Gelatin Perfectly?
Poking holes in the warm cake is crucial for the gelatin to soak properly. Use a large wooden spoon handle or a fork to make enough holes without tearing the cake apart.
- Make sure to poke holes close together for maximum absorption.
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before pouring the gelatin to prevent it from sinking too fast.
After pouring the gelatin, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before refrigerating. This allows it to soak in better before sealing it up.
How to Make Pumpkin Jello Poke Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- Ingredients called for on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
For The Gelatin Layer:
- 1 (3 oz) package pumpkin spice flavored gelatin (Jello)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
For The Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert will take around 15-20 minutes of preparation time, plus about 30-35 minutes for baking. It will need an additional 3-4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly. Altogether, you’ll need about 4-5 hours to make and chill this delightful cake before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven according to the cake mix directions, usually to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, prepare the cake batter as directed on the box, which typically involves mixing the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water.
2. Bake the Cake
Once your batter is well-mixed, pour it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake according to the package directions, usually around 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center of the cake.
3. Poke Holes
After baking, remove the cake from the oven. While it’s still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake. You want lots of holes for the gelatin to soak in!
4. Prepare the Gelatin
In a mixing bowl, dissolve the pumpkin spice gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until it’s completely dissolved. Then, add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until everything is smooth and blended.
5. Soak the Cake
Pour the pumpkin gelatin mixture evenly over the holes in the cake while it is still warm. Make sure you cover as much of the cake as possible with the mixture; this helps flavor every bite!
6. Chill
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 3-4 hours, or until the gelatin is set and the cake is cool.
7. Add the Whipped Topping
Once your cake is set, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake to create a fluffy layer. If you like, sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top for a lovely finish.
8. Serve
Cut the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy this delightful pumpkin treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave something sweet!
This Pumpkin Jello Poke Cake is a creamy, flavorful dessert that guests will love. Happy baking!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Jello?
Absolutely! While pumpkin spice is perfect for the season, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or caramel. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor profile of the cake.
What If I Don’t Have Pumpkin Spice Jello?
No problem! You can use regular gelatin instead. Simply add an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the boiling water for flavor. It will still give you that delicious pumpkin taste.
How Long Does This Cake Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this cake will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to cover it well to maintain the moisture and flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, but note that the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly after freezing.
