Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

If you love the nostalgic taste of Raspberry Zingers, this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is going to be your new favorite dessert! It’s soft, moist, and bursting with raspberry flavor, just like the classic snack cake.

A simple white cake is infused with sweet raspberry gelatin, creating beautiful ribbons of flavor throughout. It’s then topped with creamy frosting and (optionally) a sprinkle of coconut for that signature Zinger taste. This cake is easy to make and perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or whenever you’re craving something fruity and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, fruity flavor – The raspberry gelatin soaks into the cake, giving it a deliciously sweet and tangy taste.
• Super moist – The poke cake method ensures every bite is soft and flavorful.
• Easy to make – Uses a boxed cake mix to save time without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for family gatherings, holidays, or just because!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1 package (3 oz) raspberry gelatin (Jell-O)
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water

For the Topping (Optional but Delicious!):

• 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 cup shredded coconut (for a true Zinger-style topping)

How to Make Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

This cake is as easy as it is delicious!

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the white cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed.

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Using the end of a wooden spoon (or a fork), poke holes all over the cake. Make sure the holes go almost to the bottom so the raspberry gelatin soaks in evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Raspberry Gelatin

In a medium bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add the ½ cup of cold water and mix well.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Slowly pour the prepared raspberry gelatin mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled and set.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Once the cake is chilled, spread a layer of whipped topping evenly over the top. For a true Raspberry Zinger vibe, sprinkle with shredded coconut.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice into squares and enjoy this cool, fruity, and moist cake!

Helpful Tips

• Poke deep holes – This helps the gelatin soak in fully, creating those signature moist, fruity layers.
• Use a fork if needed – If you don’t have a wooden spoon handle, a fork works just fine to poke holes.
• Let it chill – The longer the cake sits, the better the flavors meld together!
• Make it extra raspberry-flavored – Spread raspberry preserves over the cake before adding the whipped topping.
• Want a homemade touch? – Instead of Cool Whip, use homemade whipped cream for a richer topping.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 12-15 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking, Chilling
• Cuisine: American

Notes

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the cake with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
• For a fun twist, try making this cake with strawberry or cherry gelatin instead of raspberry.
• This cake is best served chilled, making it a refreshing treat on a warm day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Estimated values based on 15 servings:

• Calories: ~210
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to blend even better. Just store it covered in the fridge.

What if I don’t like coconut?
No problem! You can leave it off or replace it with white chocolate shavings for a fun alternative.

Can I use a different cake mix?
Definitely! Yellow cake or vanilla cake will also work, but white cake helps the raspberry color pop.

How do I make homemade whipped topping?
If you prefer homemade over Cool Whip, beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Cover and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze this cake for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge before serving.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake, here are some other fun, fruity desserts to try:

• Baked Crème Brûlée Donuts

Conclusion

This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a fun, easy, and nostalgic dessert that’s sure to impress! The combination of moist cake, sweet raspberry filling, fluffy whipped topping, and coconut makes it absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a party, a holiday, or just a casual treat, this cake will be a huge hit!

Try it out and let me know what you think. Happy baking!

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