Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake – A Sweet and Tangy Delight
This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a fun, flavorful twist on the traditional poke cake. The white cake is infused with sweet and tangy raspberry gelatin, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Topped with a creamy whipped topping and a sprinkle of coconut, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make and delicious cake!
Why You’ll Love Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake:
This cake combines the light, fluffy texture of a white cake with the tangy, fruity goodness of raspberry gelatin. It’s topped with a creamy whipped topping and a hint of coconut, making each slice a sweet treat that’s sure to delight.
Flavor Explosion: The raspberry gelatin adds a burst of fruity flavor, while the coconut topping gives it a unique twist.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cake is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any special baking skills.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a regular day, this cake is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Moist and Delicious: The poke cake method ensures the cake stays moist, making every bite irresistible.
Nutritional Benefits:
White Cake: A light, fluffy base that’s easy to digest and pairs well with the fruity gelatin.
Raspberry Gelatin: Adds a tangy flavor and some vitamin C from the raspberries.
Whipped Topping: Offers a light, creamy texture that complements the cake’s flavors.
Coconut: Provides a bit of healthy fat and a lovely tropical flavor.
Ingredients for Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake:
For the Cake:
1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
1 package (3 oz) raspberry gelatin (Jell-O)
For the Topping:
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Cake (Time: 10 minutes)
Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the white cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the box, then pour it into the prepared baking dish. Bake the cake as directed on the box, typically around 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Poke the Cake (Time: 5 minutes)
Once the cake is baked and has cooled for about 10 minutes, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake. Be sure to make plenty of holes to allow the gelatin to soak in.
Prepare the Raspberry Gelatin (Time: 5 minutes)
In a small bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Once the gelatin has dissolved, add 1 cup of cold water and mix well.
Pour the Gelatin Over the Cake (Time: 2 minutes)
Pour the prepared gelatin over the cake, making sure to cover the entire surface and allow it to fill the holes. Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours.
Top the Cake (Time: 5 minutes)
After the cake has chilled and set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface of the cake. If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut over the whipped topping for added flavor and texture.
Serve and Enjoy (Time: 2 minutes)
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. This cake is perfect for any occasion and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours (including chilling time)
Servings: 12-16
Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal per serving (varies based on ingredients and portion size)
Tips for the Best Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake:
Gelatin Variations: Try using different flavored gelatin, such as strawberry, cherry, or orange, for a fun twist.
Toppings: If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can substitute it with crushed graham crackers, mini chocolate chips, or even fresh fruit.
Make-Ahead: This cake is perfect for making ahead of time. It can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days and still taste delicious.
Cake Moisture: The key to a moist poke cake is allowing the gelatin to soak in completely. Don’t skip the chilling step!
FAQ About Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake:
Q: Can I make this cake with a different cake flavor?
A: Yes! You can swap the white cake for a yellow, lemon, or even a chocolate cake mix for different flavor combinations.
Q: Can I use fresh raspberries instead of gelatin?
A: While fresh raspberries would add a lovely touch, they won’t provide the same jiggly, soaking effect that gelatin does. However, you can create a raspberry sauce to drizzle over the cake instead.
Q: Is it okay to make the cake the day before?
A: Yes! In fact, this cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
Final Thoughts:
This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a sweet, tangy, and refreshing dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. The combination of the light cake, fruity gelatin, creamy topping, and coconut creates a dessert that’s both fun and delicious. Give it a try, and your friends and family will be asking for the recipe!
If you loved this cake, share the recipe with others and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Enjoy!