Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

Oh my goodness, I just tried this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake, and wow, it blew my mind. It’s pink, fluffy, and oh-so-yummy. I can’t stop smiling when I think about it.

I got super curious when I saw its bright color, so I just had to make it. It looked fancy, but guess what, it was easy. I felt like a baking star in my own kitchen.

Now I’m craving it all the time, and my family wants more. It’s moist, it’s tangy, and the raspberry flavor just pops. I feel so proud every time I slice into that sweet cake.

You have to try it, like, right now. Just grab a few simple things and make it happen. Trust me, this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake will make your taste buds dance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Snack Cake Flavor: Brings the nostalgic taste of Raspberry Zingers right to your kitchen.
• Light and Refreshing: The combination of gelatin, raspberry, and whipped topping keeps it light, sweet, and perfect for any season.
• Easy to Prepare: Made with simple ingredients, including a boxed cake mix—perfect for beginners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
• Crowd Pleaser: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or casual desserts, it’s a guaranteed favorite.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Chill Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
• Chill Time: 2-4 hours (for best texture and flavor)
• Total Time: About 3-5 hours, including chilling

Servings:

• This recipe makes about 12 generous servings, depending on slice size.

Difficulty:

• Beginner-friendly, with easy steps that require minimal baking skills.

Required Kitchen Tools

To create this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake smoothly, gather these kitchen essentials:

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking and serving the cake.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To prepare cake batter and mix ingredients.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: For blending the cake mix and ensuring smooth batter.
• Fork or Wooden Skewer: To poke holes evenly across the cake.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For dissolving raspberry gelatin.
• Spatula: To spread preserves and whipped topping evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Ingredients for Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

Here’s everything you need to bring this dessert to life (exact measurements are included in the recipe card at the end):

• White Cake Mix (18.25 oz box): The base of the cake—light and neutral to let raspberry shine.
• Eggs, Oil, and Water (per box instructions): Needed to prepare the cake mix.
• Raspberry Flavored Gelatin (3 oz box): Adds that signature color and flavor when poured into the cake.
• Hot Water: To dissolve the gelatin completely.
• Raspberry Preserves (10 oz jar): Adds real raspberry texture and sweetness.
• Cool Whip (8 oz tub), thawed: A light, creamy layer on top of the cake.
• Shredded Coconut (7 oz bag): For that classic Zinger-style finish.

Variations for Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

Looking to personalize this cake? Here are some easy and delicious ways to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences:

• Use Yellow or Vanilla Cake Mix: Swap out white cake mix for yellow or vanilla for a richer base flavor.
• Different Gelatin Flavors: Try strawberry or cherry gelatin if raspberry isn’t available or to add a new twist.
• Fresh Berries: Add fresh raspberries on top before serving for extra texture and natural tartness.
• Cream Cheese Layer: Mix cream cheese with Cool Whip for a thicker, tangier topping.
• Toasted Coconut: Lightly toast the shredded coconut for a nutty, deeper flavor.

How to Make Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Prepare and Bake the Cake

• Preheat the oven according to the white cake mix box instructions (usually around 350°F or 175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, prepare the white cake mix following the directions on the box—adding the specified eggs, oil, and water.
• Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes—it should still be warm when you poke holes.

2. Poke the Cake

• Using a fork or wooden skewer, poke holes evenly across the entire cake, making sure to go deep so the gelatin can seep in well.
• Space the holes about 1/2 inch apart for an even soak.

3. Make and Pour the Gelatin

• In a small mixing bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 1 cup of hot water, stirring until fully dissolved (about 2 minutes).
• Carefully pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the warm cake, ensuring it fills the holes and spreads throughout.
• Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1-2 hours.

Serving and Decoration

4. Add the Raspberry Preserves

• Once the cake has chilled and the gelatin is set, spread the raspberry preserves evenly over the entire surface of the cake using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
• Make sure to cover all edges for consistent flavor in every bite.

5. Add the Whipped Topping

• Gently spread the thawed Cool Whip over the layer of raspberry preserves, creating a smooth, even layer.
• Take your time to avoid mixing it into the preserves layer—you want distinct layers for the best visual and taste effect.

6. Sprinkle the Coconut

• Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the top of the cake, pressing lightly so it sticks to the whipped topping.
• If desired, you can toast the coconut in a dry pan for a few minutes until golden, then let it cool before sprinkling for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

• Slice into 12 generous pieces or smaller squares for more servings.
• Serve chilled—this cake is best enjoyed cold, straight from the refrigerator.
• Perfect as a refreshing summer dessert, or as a nostalgic treat for gatherings, birthdays, and potlucks.

Storing Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake (without whipped topping and coconut) for up to 1 month. Add fresh topping and coconut after thawing.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the cake, gelatin, and preserve layers a day in advance. Add Cool Whip and coconut on the day of serving for the freshest look and taste.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving — Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount (Per Slice)
Calories	320 kcal
Carbohydrates	42 g
Protein	3 g
Fat	15 g
Saturated Fat	9 g
Cholesterol	35 mg
Sodium	280 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	30 g
Calcium	6% DV
Iron	4% DV

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake FAQs

1. Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer baking from scratch, a simple white or vanilla cake recipe works well. Just make sure the cake is firm enough to hold the gelatin without falling apart.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the whipped topping and coconut just before serving for the freshest texture.

3. Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
You can, but keep in mind that fresh whipped cream is less stable and may not hold up as long. If using fresh whipped cream, serve the cake within a few hours for best results.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s best enjoyed cold.

5. Can I substitute the raspberry preserves?
Yes. If you prefer a different flavor, strawberry or mixed berry preserves are great alternatives.

6. Is this cake freezer-friendly?
You can freeze the cake after adding the gelatin but before adding whipped topping and coconut. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and add toppings before serving.

Conclusion

If you love the sweet, fruity, and creamy combination of Raspberry Zinger snack cakes, this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake brings all that flavor home with a lot less effort. It’s an easy, make-ahead dessert that looks beautiful and tastes even better. Whether you’re serving it at a party, potluck, or just for family, this cake is sure to be a favorite on your dessert table.