Craving a delightful treat that’s bursting with strawberry flavor? Look no further than these strawberry Jell-O poke cupcakes! This recipe combines the moistness of cupcakes with a fun and fruity twist, perfect for any occasion.
By infusing each cupcake with a sweet and tangy Jell-O mixture, these treats are a refreshing take on the classic dessert. The process of poking holes and filling them with a strawberry gelatin concoction adds a unique touch that elevates the flavor profile.
Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just looking to impress your guests, these strawberry Jell-O poke cupcakes are sure to be a hit. Stay tuned for the step-by-step guide to creating these delectable treats that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
Creating these delicious Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cupcakes requires a handful of simple and flavorful ingredients. Let’s gather everything we need to make these delightful treats.
Cupcakes
- 1 box white cake mix (and ingredients listed on the box)
- Sliced strawberries for topping (optional)
Jell-O Mix
- 1 3 oz box strawberry Jell-O
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 container whipped white frosting or cool whip
- Fresh sliced strawberries for garnish (optional)
Necessary Equipment
To create these delightful strawberry Jell-O poke cupcakes, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here is a list of the necessary tools you’ll need:
- Muffin Pan: Use a regular-size muffin pan with 24 cups to bake the cupcakes.
- Paper Baking Cups: Place a paper baking cup in each muffin cup for easy removal after baking.
- Fork or Wooden Skewer: Required for poking holes in the cupcakes to fill with Jell-O.
- Foil-Lined Baking Pan: Use this to place the cupcakes for filling with the Jell-O mixture.
- Electric Mixer: An electric mixer will help you prepare the frosting efficiently.
- Piping Bag or Ziploc Bag (optional): If you prefer a decorative frosting style, a piping bag or Ziploc bag can be used for piping the frosting onto the cupcakes.
- Large Spoon: Needed for spooning the Jell-O mixture into the cupcakes.
- Cooling Racks: Use these racks with parchment paper underneath to cool the cupcakes after baking.
Make sure you have these items on hand before starting the recipe to make the process seamless and enjoyable.
Directions
Preparation
To begin, place 24 cupcake liners in a muffin tin. Follow the cake mix instructions on the package and fill the liners two-thirds full. Bake the cupcakes for 15-18 minutes, then allow them to cool completely. Using a fork or bamboo skewer, poke about 6 holes in each cupcake.
Baking the Cupcakes
Prepare the Strawberry Jell-O as directed. Place the cupcakes on a pan with edges to catch any overflow. Instead of pouring the Jell-O mixture over the cupcakes, use a squeeze bottle to fill the holes in each cupcake. Refrigerate the cupcakes for a few hours to chill.
Adding the Jell-O Mix
Prepare the Vanilla instant pudding with milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the Cool Whip and refrigerate the frosting for about 30 minutes to thicken before frosting the chilled cupcakes.
Serving and Storage Tips
After creating these exquisite strawberry Jell-O poke cupcakes, it’s crucial to serve and store them correctly to maintain their quality and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure the best experience for you and your guests:
Serving Tips
- Presentation: For a visually stunning display, garnish each cupcake with a halved strawberry just before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dessert table.
- Temperature: Serve the cupcakes chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Chilled cupcakes can be refreshing on a hot day, while room temperature ones might emphasize the flavors more.
- Pairing: These strawberry Jell-O poke cupcakes pair beautifully with a glass of champagne or a fruity iced tea. The light and sweet flavors complement each other perfectly.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The refrigeration will help maintain the freshness of the cupcakes and preserve the delicate frosting.
- Shelf Life: These cupcakes can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Beyond that, the texture and flavor may start to deteriorate.
- Freezing: If you need to store the cupcakes for a longer period, you can freeze them. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy the frozen cupcakes, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Bringing them to room temperature before serving will ensure the best taste and texture.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy these delightful strawberry Jell-O poke cupcakes at their best, whether serving them at a special occasion or savoring them as a sweet treat throughout the week.
Conclusion
Creating these strawberry Jell-O poke cupcakes is a delightful way to indulge in a burst of fruity flavor and moist goodness. By infusing the cupcakes with a sweet Jell-O mixture and topping them with Vanilla instant pudding and Cool Whip frosting, you’ll have a treat that’s sure to impress. Remember to garnish with fresh strawberries and consider serving them chilled or at room temperature for the best experience. Whether you enjoy them at a special event or as a mid-week pick-me-up, following the serving and storage tips ensures that these cupcakes stay delicious for days. With the option to refrigerate leftovers, store for a few days, or freeze for longer enjoyment, these cupcakes are versatile and perfect for any occasion.