Easter Bunny Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your family this spring, the Easter Bunny Poke Cake is your new secret weapon! Imagine a fluffy white cake infused with sweet strawberry gelatin, topped with clouds of whipped cream, a shower of pastel sprinkles, and the most adorable bunny decorations. Not only is it vibrant and totally crowd-pleasing, but every slice also bursts with creamy, fruity, and coconutty goodness. This show-stopping dessert practically hops off the table and is guaranteed to make your Easter spread unforgettable.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easter Bunny Poke Cake comes together with simple, colorful ingredients that magically transform into a dreamy, festive treat. Each item not only adds pops of flavor and texture, but also helps create those eye-catching, spring-inspired layers everybody loves.

• White cake mix: The soft, neutral canvas lets the strawberry flavor and bright colors shine, and is super simple to work with.
• Ingredients for cake mix (usually egg whites, oil, and water): Follow your box instructions exactly—this keeps your base perfectly tender and consistent.
• Strawberry gelatin (Jell-O): Infuses the cake with classic strawberry sweetness and gives that gorgeous peekaboo effect inside every slice.
• Boiling water: Dissolves the gelatin completely for even flavor and color distribution.
• Cold water: Helps the gelatin set up with the perfect texture inside the cake.
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Creates a fluffy, creamy layer that balances the fruity base and looks pristine for decorating.
• Pastel sprinkles: Instantly transforms the cake into festive party fare—choose your favorite shapes and colors!
• Shredded sweetened coconut: Adds a playful, snowy “grass” topping with satisfying chewiness and mild sweetness.
• Pink food coloring: Turns your coconut a lovely blush pink, perfect for spring and bunny themes.
• Bunny marshmallows or candy decorations (optional): The finishing touch for creating those irresistible rabbit-inspired vibes—kids absolutely love this part!

How to Make Easter Bunny Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good misting with nonstick spray, so nothing sticks. Mix and bake the white cake according to your package directions, which usually takes about 25 minutes. Once golden and set, let the cake cool for 15 to 20 minutes—it should be warm, not steaming hot, for the next step.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

With the cake slightly cooled, use the handle end of a clean wooden spoon to poke deep holes all over the surface, about one inch apart. Don’t be shy with the poking! These little tunnels are what will carry all that luscious strawberry flavor to every bite.

Step 3: Make and Pour the Strawberry Gelatin

In a medium bowl, whisk the packet of strawberry gelatin with 1 cup of boiling water until every last crystal dissolves. Stir in the ½ cup of cold water to cool things down a bit. Carefully pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the poked cake, making sure to fill those holes as much as possible so the color and flavor seeps all the way through.

Step 4: Chill to Set

Slide the cake into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least two full hours. This step ensures the gelatin sets beautifully inside, creating that stunning, candy-striped effect.

Step 5: Tint the Coconut

While the cake chills, tint your shredded coconut by placing it in a small zip-top bag with a few drops of pink food coloring. Seal, then shake and knead gently until the coconut is evenly coated a pretty pastel pink. If you prefer a more subtle hue, start with a single drop and add more as needed.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Once the cake is perfectly set, use a spatula to spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface. Then, sprinkle with a generous handful of pastel sprinkles and the blush-pink coconut. For the grand finale, nestle bunny-shaped marshmallows or candy decorations across the top if you like. Your Easter Bunny Poke Cake is ready to steal the show!

How to Serve Easter Bunny Poke Cake

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing your Easter Bunny Poke Cake, let your inner artist shine! Besides the pink coconut and pastel sprinkles, try adding edible glitter, fresh strawberry slices, or mint leaves for an elegant, garden-inspired twist. Nestling a few bunny-shaped candies or marshmallows on top instantly turns your cake into a showpiece that both kids and adults adore.

Side Dishes

This cake shines on its own, but you can pair it with fresh fruit salad, citrusy berry compote, or a simple vanilla yogurt parfait for a light, spring-themed dessert spread. For brunch, consider serving with sweet glazed ham or a fresh, herby green salad to balance the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and serve the Easter Bunny Poke Cake directly from the pan for easy gatherings, or cut into neat squares and arrange on a pastel platter for extra flair. For a special touch at kids’ parties, place individual slices in cupcake liners, then decorate each one with a mini bunny or sugar flower. You can even make “poke cake jars” by layering cubes of cake, extra whipped topping, and decorations in small mason jars—great for grab-and-go fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easter Bunny Poke Cake keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover the pan with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container to lock in freshness and prevent the whipped topping from absorbing fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to make the cake ahead or save slices for later, you can freeze it—just hold off on adding the whipped topping and decorations until you’re ready to serve. Wrap the cooled, gelatin-filled cake tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before finishing with frosting and toppings.

Reheating

Easter Bunny Poke Cake is best served chilled, so there’s no need for traditional reheating. If you’ve frozen the cake, let it fully thaw in the refrigerator overnight before topping and enjoying. Serve straight from the fridge for the freshest flavor and creamiest texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O for this cake?

Absolutely! This cake is super flexible. Lemon or raspberry gelatin works beautifully and creates a new twist on the classic flavor—just keep in mind your color palette for the best festive look.

Is homemade whipped cream okay instead of store-bought topping?

Definitely! Homemade whipped cream brings an extra-rich, fresh flavor to the Easter Bunny Poke Cake. Just be sure to whip it to stiff peaks so it holds up as a topping.

Can I make Easter Bunny Poke Cake gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute your favorite gluten-free white cake mix and double-check all other ingredients for allergens. Everything else works the same way, so everyone can join in the fun!

How do I tint coconut evenly with food coloring?

Place the coconut in a zip-top bag, add a drop or two of food coloring, and shake. Knead the bag with your hands so the color distributes evenly. Start with less and add gradually for the perfect pastel shade.

What’s the best way to cut and serve neat squares?

For clean slices, chill the cake well before cutting. Use a sharp, non-serrated knife, and wipe it clean between cuts. This ensures each piece has tidy layers and looks picture-perfect on your dessert tray.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like seeing the smiles when you set down a homemade Easter Bunny Poke Cake! Whimsical, easy, and bursting with charm, it’s the kind of treat that makes memories. I hope you give this recipe a go and let it bring a little extra magic to your table—happy baking and happy spring!

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