Description
Southern Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake is a delightful layered dessert that combines moist yellow cake, fresh strawberries, creamy vanilla pudding, and strawberry gelatin. Served chilled in a punch bowl, this refreshing and impressive dessert is perfect for gatherings and celebrations, showcasing a harmonious blend of fruity and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients according to package, typically eggs, oil, and water)
Strawberry Gelatin Layer
- 5 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 package (3 oz) instant strawberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
Vanilla Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping or whipped cream, thawed
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Bake the yellow cake according to the package instructions. Allow the cake to cool completely, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces to form the base layer of the punch bowl.
- Mix the Strawberry Gelatin: Dissolve the instant strawberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in the diced fresh strawberries gently to coat without making them mushy.
- Prepare the Creamy Layers: Whisk the vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Then fold in the whipped topping gently to create a light and creamy texture.
- Assemble the Punch Bowl Cake: In a large clear punch bowl, layer spoonfuls of crumbled cake, followed by the creamy pudding mixture, then the strawberry gelatin and fresh strawberry mixture. Repeat the layering process until the bowl is filled, finishing with a generous dollop of whipped topping and garnishing with fresh strawberries.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the punch bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the gelatin to set and the flavors to meld, ensuring the perfect refreshing texture and taste.
Notes
- Use fresh ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Be gentle when folding the strawberries into the gelatin to keep them intact.
- The pudding mixture should be thick but still easy to spread for layering.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before crumbling to avoid sogginess.
- This dessert is best served chilled and within 1-2 days of preparation for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
