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Indulge in the delightful nostalgia of a classic dessert with this raspberry zinger poke cake recipe. Bursting with big raspberry flavors, creamy whipped topping, and a delightful coconut crunch, this cake is sure to steal the show at any gathering. Reminiscent of sunny picnics and joyful potlucks, the raspberry zinger poke cake brings a touch of homemade goodness to your table.
Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard birthday bash or a cozy brunch with loved ones, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The magic happens when the raspberry gelatin seeps into the fluffy white cake, creating a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. And don’t forget to top it off with fresh raspberries for a burst of color and extra berry goodness.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to create a cake that will evoke smiles and memories with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this raspberry zinger poke cake is a sweet treat that promises to bring joy and satisfaction to all who taste it.
Quick Benefits
- Easy to make with simple ingredients like cake mix, gelatin, and whipped topping
- Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to four days, making it a convenient dessert for gatherings
- Versatile recipe with options to customize flavors by using different fruit combinations
- Offers a nostalgic and crowd-pleasing dessert with a blend of raspberry bursts, creamy topping, and coconut crunch
Why You’ll Love This Delicious Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe Recipe
- If you love nostalgic and comforting desserts, this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake will hit the spot with its big raspberry bursts and creamy topping.
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or backyard gatherings, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- The combination of raspberry gelatin, whipped topping, and coconut flakes creates a unique texture and flavor profile that is both delightful and satisfying.
- The versatility of this recipe allows for customization with different flavors like strawberry or blackberry, making it suitable for any occasion or season.
- Make-ahead friendly, this cake can be assembled up to two days in advance, making it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
- The ease of preparation and minimal effort required make this cake a go-to recipe for busy days when you want to guarantee smiles from your loved ones.
- The cake’s ability to hold up well in the fridge and freezer means you can enjoy it over several days or even freeze it for future indulgence.
- The fresh raspberries on top not only provide a beautiful finishing touch but also add a burst of berry flavor that complements the richness of the cake.
- With its simple yet delicious ingredients and foolproof assembly, this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a must-try for anyone looking for a delightful and satisfying dessert option.
Ingredients for Delicious Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe
Cake Base
- 1 box white cake mix
Gelatin Layer
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 box (3 oz) raspberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
Topping
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup raspberry jam or preserves
- Fresh raspberries for garnish
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Pro Tips for Delicious Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe
Pro Tip: To ensure the raspberry flavor permeates throughout the cake, be sure to poke plenty of holes with a spoon handle after baking and cooling. Slowly pour the dissolved raspberry gelatin over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes for maximum flavor infusion.
Pro Tip: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the raspberry layer to set and the flavors to meld together. This chilling time enhances the taste and texture of the cake, providing a truly delightful treat for your guests.
Pro Tip: Fresh raspberries make the perfect garnish for this raspberry zinger poke cake, adding a pop of color and burst of berry freshness. Feel free to get creative with the toppings, such as adding extra berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce, to elevate the presentation and flavor profile of the cake.
How to Make Delicious Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the White Cake
Preheat the oven as directed on the cake mix package. Prepare the batter according to package instructions and pour into a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool slightly before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Raspberry Gelatin
In a bowl, dissolve raspberry gelatin in boiling water, then stir until fully dissolved. Mix in cold water.
Step 3: Soak the Cake with Gelatin
Create holes in warm cake using a wooden spoon handle. Pour prepared gelatin mixture over cake, making sure it fills the holes. Chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours to set.
Step 4: Apply Toppings
Spread raspberry jam or preserves on the chilled cake. Smoothly layer whipped topping over the jam, then sprinkle shredded sweetened coconut on top.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Before slicing and serving, decorate the cake with fresh raspberries.
Storage Tips
To store the finished raspberry zinger poke cake, cover the cake pan tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and refrigerate for up to four days. The whipped topping and gelatin in the cake help keep it moist, ensuring that leftovers stay delicious and soft. If you plan to make the cake ahead of time for a party, assembling it up to two days in advance works well. When ready to serve, simply top with fresh raspberries for a finishing touch of color and a burst of berry flavor.
For longer storage, you can freeze the unassembled soaked cake base tightly double wrapped for up to two months. Thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and assemble the topping fresh on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture. While the gelatin and cake hold up well in the freezer, it’s recommended to skip adding the whipped topping until just before serving. This versatile cake is a great make-ahead option for gatherings or for enjoying a slice for breakfast the next day, as the coconut softens overnight and absorbs all the raspberry richness for a delightful treat.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch up the flavor profile of the raspberry zinger poke cake, you can easily substitute fresh summer strawberries or blackberries for the raspberries. Additionally, a dash of lemon zest added to the cake mix can help brighten up the berry flavors for a refreshing twist.
For those who prefer to omit coconut or are looking for a nuttier alternative, chopped nuts can be a great substitution in place of shredded coconut. This swap will still provide texture and a different depth of flavor to the cake.
If you prefer a different jam flavor or want to experiment with a mixed berry version, feel free to use strawberry or mixed berry jam as a substitute for the raspberry jam or preserves. This simple switch can add a new dimension of fruity sweetness to the cake while still maintaining its deliciousness.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the presentation of this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake, consider serving it in individual mason jars for a charming picnic dessert. Layer the cake, raspberry jam, and whipped topping in the jars for a visually appealing treat that is easy to transport and enjoy on the go. Top each jar with a few fresh raspberries for a pop of color and burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
For a birthday celebration, turn this poke cake into a festive dessert by decorating it with extra fresh berries and candle accents on top. The vibrant colors of the berries and flickering candlelight will create a cheerful and celebratory atmosphere, perfect for any birthday party. Whether served in jars for a casual outing or adorned with candles for a special occasion, this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is sure to impress and delight your guests with its delicious flavors and nostalgic charm.
FAQs for Delicious Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe
Can I use a different type of jam besides raspberry?
Absolutely! Strawberry or mixed berry jam can also complement the cake for a delicious twist.
Do I have to include the shredded coconut in the recipe?
The coconut adds texture and flavor, but you may omit it or replace it with chopped nuts if preferred.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the raspberry layer to set and the flavors to meld before serving.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, lightly sweetened fresh whipped cream works beautifully and provides a rich, homemade taste.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful raspberry zinger poke cake as much as I have. It truly is a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles and satisfies sweet cravings with its burst of raspberry goodness and coconut crunch. Whether you serve it at a potluck, picnic, or birthday celebration, this easy-to-make cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with different berry flavors or toppings to suit your taste preferences. Remember, the beauty of baking is in making recipes your own. So, gather your ingredients, bake up a delicious raspberry zinger poke cake, and delight your loved ones with this scrumptious treat. Happy baking!

Delicious Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 box white cake mix
Gelatin Layer
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 box (3 oz) raspberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
Topping
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup raspberry jam or preserves
- Fresh raspberries for garnish
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
-
Bake the White Cake: Preheat the oven as directed on the cake mix package. Prepare the batter according to package instructions and pour into a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool slightly before serving.
-
Prepare the Raspberry Gelatin: In a bowl, dissolve raspberry gelatin in boiling water, then stir until fully dissolved. Mix in cold water.
-
Soak the Cake with Gelatin: Create holes in warm cake using a wooden spoon handle. Pour prepared gelatin mixture over cake, making sure it fills the holes. Chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours to set.
-
Apply Toppings: Spread raspberry jam or preserves on the chilled cake. Smoothly layer whipped topping over the jam, then sprinkle shredded sweetened coconut on top.
-
Finish and Serve: Before slicing and serving, decorate the cake with fresh raspberries.








