Name: Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box white or vanilla cake mix; Ingredients required on the cake mix box (typically eggs, oil, and water); 1 box (3 oz) raspberry gelatin; 1 cup boiling water; ½ cup cold water; 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; Optional: fresh raspberries or extra shredded coconut for garnish

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This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a soft, fluffy vanilla cake infused with bright raspberry flavor and topped with a cloud of whipped topping and sweet coconut. It’s chilled, refreshing, and perfect for gatherings when you want a dessert that looks impressive but is easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is simple, colorful, and crowd-pleasing. The raspberry gelatin soaks into the cake, making every bite moist and flavorful, while the whipped topping and coconut add a light, creamy finish. It’s a great make-ahead dessert and ideal for warm days when you want something cool and sweet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 box white or vanilla cake mix
Ingredients required on the cake mix box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
1 box (3 oz) raspberry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Optional garnish: fresh raspberries or extra shredded coconut

Directions

Prepare the white or vanilla cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as instructed on the box. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly all over the cake, going about three-quarters of the way down. Space the holes about 1 inch apart.

In a bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Stir in the ½ cup of cold water.

Slowly pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.

Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set and the cake is completely chilled.

Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Sprinkle the shredded coconut generously over the top.

Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes before slicing and serving for clean, neat pieces.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.

Preparation time: about 15 minutes
Baking time: about 30 minutes (depending on the cake mix)
Chilling time: about 2 hours 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Cream-filled vibe: Spread a thin layer of prepared vanilla pudding over the cake after the gelatin sets, then top with whipped topping and coconut.

Extra raspberry punch: Lightly spoon raspberry preserves over the gelatin-soaked cake before adding the whipped topping.

Pink coconut: Tint half of the shredded coconut with a drop of pink food coloring and sprinkle it over the top for a classic Zinger-style look.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. Serve directly from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this cake a day ahead?

Yes, this cake is perfect for making a day in advance and actually tastes better after chilling overnight.

Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?

Yes, strawberry or cherry gelatin also work well and give a similar fruity flavor.

Do I need to use whipped topping, or can I use homemade whipped cream?

You can use homemade whipped cream, but stabilized whipped topping holds up better for longer storage.

Why does the cake need to cool before adding gelatin?

If the cake is too hot, the gelatin may not set properly and can make the cake soggy.

How deep should I poke the holes?

The holes should go about three-quarters of the way down, not all the way to the bottom.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, but the cake will be less sweet. Sweetened coconut is recommended for the classic flavor.

Is this cake freezer-friendly?

Freezing is not recommended, as the gelatin and whipped topping can change texture when thawed.

Can I use a homemade vanilla cake instead of a box mix?

Yes, a homemade vanilla cake baked in a 9×13-inch pan works just as well.

How do I get clean slices when serving?

Chill the cake well and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I skip the coconut?

Yes, you can leave it off or replace it with white chocolate shavings or sprinkles if preferred.

Conclusion

Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is an easy, nostalgic dessert that combines fruity flavor, creamy topping, and soft cake in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe delivers bright flavor and beautiful results with minimal effort.