Strawberry Refrigerator Cake

1. 1

   Make the boxed cake mix according to the directions on the back, pour batter in a 9x13 inch pan and bake according to box instructions.

2. 2

   When baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

3. 3

   Once it is cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke rows and rows of holes in the cake.

4. 4

   Add the thawed strawberries with syrup into a food processor or blender. Pulse until it is a slushy consistency.

5. 5

   Pour the strawberry puree mixture over the cake and spread it out evenly. Let it soak inches.

6. 6

   While the strawberry puree is soaking in, put 1 cup of cold milk and the instant vanilla pudding mix into a bowl and mix until it thickens. The box of instant pudding says to use 2 cups of milk, but we are only using 1 cup.

7. 7

   Fold the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding mixture. Once well combined, spread it evenly over the top of the cake.

8. 8

   Place the fresh strawberry halves on top of the cake frosting. Sprinkle with the optional chopped pecans.

9. 9

   Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, then slice and serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.