Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with bright raspberry flavor and has a delightful texture contrast, the Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to treat. This cake combines the lightness of a white cake with pockets of luscious raspberry jam that seep right through, all topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting and a sprinkle of sweet shredded coconut. It’s fun, festive, and perfect for gatherings or an indulgent weeknight dessert that feels like a celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays an important role, from the tender white cake base to the tangy raspberry jam that adds vibrant color and flavor.

• White cake mix: The foundation of the cake, this mix makes baking quick while guaranteeing a light and fluffy texture.
• Raspberry jam or preserves: Adds the signature tangy, sweet bursts of raspberry flavor that make this cake zing.
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Offers a delightfully chewy topping that contrasts beautifully with the smooth frosting.
• Cream cheese: Gives the frosting a rich, creamy texture and slight tang to balance the sweetness.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without any grainy texture for a smooth finish.
• Whipped topping: Makes the frosting light and fluffy, giving it a cloud-like feel.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the frosting’s flavor profile.

How to Make Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven following the directions on the cake mix box—usually around 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Mix the cake batter according to package instructions, which typically include adding eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into your prepared dish, then bake until you can insert a toothpick in the center and it comes out clean – usually about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 3: Poke Holes in the Cake

Once the cake is baked and has cooled slightly, take the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes about one inch apart all over the surface. These holes are key to getting that beautiful raspberry filling nestled inside the cake.

Step 4: Add Warmed Raspberry Jam

Microwave the raspberry jam briefly—around 20 seconds—to soften it so it will spread easily. Pour the warm jam carefully into each hole, filling them up to maximize the berry burst inside the cake.

Step 5: Chill the Cake

Allow the cake to cool completely before placing it in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours. This chilling step helps the jam set inside the cake, and it melds all those bright flavors together beautifully.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until it’s smooth, then add powdered sugar, whipped topping, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and full of creamy goodness.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Spread the luscious frosting evenly across the top of the chilled cake, covering those jam-filled holes with a rich, sweet layer that balances the tangy raspberry underneath.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Coconut

For the finishing touch, sprinkle shredded coconut over the frosted cake. This adds a hint of tropical flavor and a lovely chewy texture that complements every bite.

Step 9: Final Chill Before Serving

Pop the cake back in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time, slice into generous squares and get ready to enjoy a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

How to Serve Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, top your Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe with fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These simple touches elevate the cake’s appearance and add bursts of fresh flavor that complement the jam.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which adds cooling richness and balances the zingy raspberry notes. If you’re serving coffee or tea alongside, the cake makes the perfect sweet bite with each sip.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, serve individual portions in clear glasses layered with extra raspberry jam and frosting for a poke cake trifle effect. Alternatively, decorate the top with edible flowers or toasted coconut flakes for a stunning presentation sure to wow at any event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to savor every bite a little longer.

Freezing

This cake freezes well! Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain the integrity of the textures and flavors.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled, cream cheese-frosted cake, it’s best enjoyed cold. If you prefer it less chilled, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving, but avoid microwave reheating to keep the frosting from melting.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of the box mix in the Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! A homemade white or yellow cake from scratch works perfectly and lets you customize flavors even further for this recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese, a dairy-free whipped topping, and use a dairy-free cake mix to make this cake suitable for a dairy-free diet without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam in the poke holes?

While fresh raspberries add freshness, jam works best here because it’s thick and seeps into the cake, creating those signature pockets of flavor.

What if I don’t like coconut—can I skip the topping?

Yes! The coconut adds texture and flavor, but you can leave it out or replace it with finely chopped nuts or sprinkles for a different twist.

How long does the Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe need to chill before it’s ready to serve?

Chilling for at least 1 to 2 hours is critical for setting the jam inside the cake and allowing the frosting to firm up, making slicing and serving much easier.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake Recipe that makes it stand out from the usual cakes. Its bright raspberry pockets bursting through a soft white base combined with creamy frosting and a touch of coconut creates a gorgeous balance that’s impossible not to love. Give this recipe a try and share a slice with friends or family — it’s sure to become a beloved dessert in your collection.

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