Red, White and Blue Poke Cake (Patriotic Jelly Dessert)

3️⃣ Chill and Set

Once all the jelly has been added, carefully cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, avoiding contact with the surface. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. During this time, the jelly will firm up inside the cake holes, creating the signature colourful streaks that give poke cake its visual appeal.

4️⃣ Prepare the Cream Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix. Beat using a whisk or hand mixer for about 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken but remains soft and spreadable.
2. Add the whipped topping (such as Cool Whip) or prepared whipped cream. Gently fold it into the pudding with a spatula until well combined and fluffy. Avoid overmixing to maintain the airy texture.
3. Spread the cream topping evenly over the chilled and set cake, smoothing the surface with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.

5️⃣ Decoration & Serving

Decorate the top of the cake just before serving. Sprinkle with red, white, and blue sprinkles, or arrange sliced strawberries and blueberries in a festive pattern for an extra pop of patriotic colour. Return to the refrigerator for at least 1 additional hour to firm up the topping and enhance the flavours.

To serve, slice the cake into squares with a clean, sharp knife. Each slice will reveal the vibrant red and blue jelly streaks inside the vanilla cake. Perfect for holidays, summer gatherings, or celebratory events.