Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake
Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a soft, moist, and refreshing dessert inspired by the classic Raspberry Zinger snack cake. Made with fluffy white cake, raspberry gelatin, creamy whipped topping, sweet coconut, and fresh raspberries, this colorful dessert is perfect for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, summer gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a light and fruity treat. Every bite is bursting with raspberry flavor while the creamy topping and coconut add the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients List
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the package)
- 1 package (3 oz) raspberry gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- Optional: White chocolate curls for garnish
Serving, Prep Time, Cooking Time & Calories
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 calories per serving
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful in every bite.
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
- Beautiful pink color makes it perfect for celebrations.
- Great make-ahead dessert for parties.
- Light, creamy, and refreshing.
- Kid-friendly and family-approved.
- Perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
- Tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Cool Slightly
Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes while still warm.
Step 3: Poke the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes evenly across the entire cake.
Step 4: Prepare the Raspberry Gelatin
Mix the raspberry gelatin with boiling water until fully dissolved. Stir in the cold water.
Step 5: Pour the Gelatin
Slowly pour the raspberry gelatin over the cake, making sure it fills the holes evenly.
Step 6: Chill
Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours or until completely set.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
Step 8: Decorate
Sprinkle shredded coconut over the whipped topping and garnish with fresh raspberries and white chocolate curls if desired.
Step 9: Serve
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Variations To Try
- Use strawberry gelatin instead of raspberry.
- Add a layer of raspberry preserves beneath the whipped topping.
- Mix cream cheese into the whipped topping for extra richness.
- Garnish with toasted coconut for added crunch.
- Add sliced strawberries or blueberries for a mixed berry version.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top before serving.
- Replace the white cake with a vanilla or coconut cake mix.
Freezing Or Restoring
This cake can be frozen without the fresh raspberry garnish for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. For the freshest presentation, add the whipped topping, coconut, and fresh raspberries after thawing if possible. Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Recipe Notes
- Chill the cake completely before adding the whipped topping.
- Pour the gelatin slowly to ensure it seeps into every hole.
- Fresh raspberries provide the best flavor and appearance.
- Toast the coconut for a delicious nutty flavor.
- Do not overbake the cake to keep it soft and moist.
- This dessert tastes even better after sitting overnight.
Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake
12
servings20
minutes30
minutes320
kcalIngredients
1 box white cake mix, plus ingredients listed on the package
1 (3-ounce) package raspberry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup fresh raspberries
White chocolate curls (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare and bake the white cake according to the package directions in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly over the entire cake.
- Dissolve the raspberry gelatin in the boiling water, then stir in the cold water.
- Slowly pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours, or until fully chilled.
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the whipped topping.
- Garnish with fresh raspberries and white chocolate curls if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best flavor, refrigerate the cake overnight before serving.
Pour the gelatin slowly to ensure it fills every hole.
Fresh raspberries provide the best texture and appearance.
Toast the coconut for extra flavor and crunch.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This cake can be frozen for up to 2 months without the fresh raspberry garnish.
FAQs
Can I make Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake ahead of time?
Yes. It can be made one day in advance and actually tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely. Homemade whipped cream works wonderfully but should be stabilized if making ahead.
Do I have to use white cake mix?
No. Vanilla, yellow, or coconut cake mix also works well.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes. Freeze before adding fresh raspberries for the best results.
Conclusion
Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is an incredibly easy dessert that combines fruity raspberry flavor, fluffy cake, creamy whipped topping, and sweet coconut into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, summer barbecue, birthday party, or holiday dessert table, this colorful poke cake is guaranteed to impress. Its moist texture, vibrant flavor, and beautiful presentation make it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.







