It's summer, and you've got people coming over to your house for BBQ. You don't want them to get bored, so you're looking for something special-something they'll remember. How about Jello Poke cupcakes? They're easy to make and will be a huge hit with everyone at the party!

Not only are these cupcakes festive and fun, they are also sweet and tasty. Even the kids can help make these red, white and blue cupcakes. I used to let my son decide the color patterns for the cupcake and he liked to frost them when he was little.

He's all grown up now, but he still likes to help make them whenever we have a family BBQ. If you are spending your day outside swimming and grilling these cupcakes are the perfect way to cool off and relax after a day of fun in the sun. They will be sure to please everyone at the party!

What is a Poke Cake

Poke cakes are a traditional cake, most commonly made from boxed cake mix. When completely cool they are then poked all over with a wooden spoon or chopstick about 1 inch apart all the way around the cake. And, then filled with pudding or jello. The poked holes allow the filling to get into the cake and makes for a very moist and delicious cake.

However, Jello poke cakes can be made from scratch and still retain the same poke holes for that yummy filling! There are several different fillings you can use. Which one you use depends on your taste. You could make a chocolate cake with strawberry filling or maybe a banana cake with vanilla pudding filling or even an Oreo cake with cream cheese. For this recipe we will be using Jello as our filling.

How far in advance can I make these

These cupcakes need to stay in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before you top them. You can make these the day before you get together so they have plenty of time to set before serving.

How long do these cupcakes stay good for

Leftover cupcakes can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The most important thing is to not refreeze them after they have thawed if you have frozen them before serving.

Can I freeze poke cupcakes

Yes, Jello poke cupcakes can be frozen just as any other cake. To freeze your cupcakes, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then wrap with aluminum foil. Be sure to label them with the date you put your cupcakes in the freezer so that you know when to pull it out! Jello Poke cupcakes can last in the freezer for up to three months.

How should I store my cupcakes

Store your cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge. Poke cupcakes have a lot of moisture in them plus they are topped with whipped topping. You do not want them sitting out on the counter for long periods of time. The whipped topping can spoil.

What flavor Jello do I need for this recipe

I used cherry and berry blue jello to make these cupcakes. However, you can use any red and blue jello. The flavor of the jello you use will change how your cupcakes taste.

Does this recipe work well in a cake instead of cupcakes

Yes, this recipe works well in a cake. If you want to make this into a cake you will need a 9x13 baking pan. There is no need to adjust your cooking temperature but you will need to adjust the cook time. To ensure that your cake is done in the center you will need to bake it for 20 - 24 minutes. Check the center for doneness with a toothpick. For a complete recipe, check out my Raspberry Poke Cake!

Can I use a different type of Jello

Yes, you can use any type of Jello that you have. Just as a note if you use a different type of Jello it will change the colors and flavors of your poke cupcakes.

What type of cake mix can I use

For this recipe, it is really important that you use white cake mix. You can use a box like I did, or a homemade cake mix but you need to make sure that your cake is white so that your colors show up well.

Ingredients for Jello Poke Cupcakes

• white cake mix prepared according to box directions  
• blue jello
• red jello
• water
• whipped topping
• sprinkles

How to Make Jello Poke Cupcakes

Step 1. Prepare cupcakes according to box directions.

Step 2. When the cake is cooled, combine 1/2 cup boiling water with blue jello in a bowl. Stir until dissolved.

Step 3. In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup boiling water with red jello. Stir until dissolved.

Step 4. Using a wooden spoon, poke three holes in each cupcake.

Step 5. Carefully spoon jello mixtures into the holes, trying to only pour one color into each hole. In each cupcake, I pour one color in two holes and the other color into one hole.

Step 6. Place cupcakes in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow jello to soak in.

Step 7. Frost with whipped topping and finish things off with sprinkles.

Step 8. Serve and Enjoy

These Poke Cupcakes with Jello Filling are light, fluffy, and delicious! They are a must for any outdoor BBQ or summer party. Served with ice cream they would make the perfect dessert for any holiday! If you like this recipe please share it with your friends.

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