If you love the nostalgic taste of Raspberry Zinger snack cakes, this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is for you! This decadent dessert combines moist white cake, tangy raspberry filling, a creamy layer, and sweet coconut, creating a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make treat.
The first time I made this for a family gathering, it was an instant hit—everyone asked for seconds and the recipe! Whether you’re making it for a holiday, potluck, or just a fun dessert night, this cake will impress every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – A cake mix base makes it foolproof and hassle-free.
✔ Moist & Flavorful – Raspberry gelatin infuses every bite with juicy, fruity goodness.
✔ Creamy & Dreamy – A whipped cream & cream cheese topping adds richness without being too heavy.
✔ Perfectly Balanced – The blend of tangy raspberry, sweet coconut, and creamy filling is irresistible.
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for Easter, summer BBQs, birthdays, or weekend treats!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 package (3 oz) raspberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
For the Filling & Topping:
- 1½ cups whipped cream or Cool Whip
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup raspberry preserves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and prepare the cake batter as directed.
- Bake according to package instructions, then let the cake cool for 10 minutes.
2. Poke & Soak
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water.
- Stir in ½ cup cold water to slightly cool the mixture.
- Slowly pour the gelatin over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to absorb.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Gently spread the mixture over the chilled cake.
4. Top It Off
- Spread a generous layer of whipped cream or Cool Whip over the cream cheese filling.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut evenly on top.
5. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2 more hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Slice and enjoy this creamy, raspberry-filled delight!
Serving & Storage Tips
Best served chilled – allows the layers to set perfectly.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months – just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Garnish with fresh raspberries for extra fruitiness.
Drizzle with extra raspberry preserves for a bolder raspberry kick.
Helpful Notes & Variations
✔ Poking Tip: Space holes 1 inch apart so the gelatin distributes evenly.
✔ Alternative Flavors: Swap raspberry Jell-O for strawberry or cherry for a fun twist!
✔ Homemade Cake Option: Use your favorite white cake recipe instead of a boxed mix.
✔ Less Sweet? Reduce powdered sugar in the cream cheese layer to ¾ cup.
✔ No Raspberry Preserves? Use strawberry or mixed berry jam instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! While white cake mix gives the classic Zinger flavor, you can use vanilla or yellow cake mix if preferred.
2. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Beat 1½ cups heavy whipping cream with 3 tablespoons powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. How do I make this cake taste even more like a Raspberry Zinger snack cake?
For a more authentic Zinger taste, spread a thin layer of raspberry preserves over the gelatin-soaked cake before adding the cream cheese layer.
4. What if I don’t like coconut?
No problem! Simply omit the shredded coconut or replace it with white chocolate shavings for a different texture.
5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it 1-2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is the ultimate nostalgic dessert—fruity, creamy, and incredibly delicious! It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for Easter, summer BBQs, birthdays, or just a fun treat, this cake disappears fast!
Try it out and get ready for rave reviews!
(Enjoy your dessert!