🍰 Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake – A Sweet, Tart, and Creamy Delight!

If you’re a fan of the classic Raspberry Zinger snack cakes, then get ready to fall in love with this Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake! It’s light, fluffy, creamy, and bursting with raspberry flavor — the perfect combination of sweet coconut, tart raspberry, and smooth whipped topping.

This dessert looks fancy but is incredibly easy to make. It starts with a simple white cake mix that’s soaked with raspberry gelatin, then topped with creamy pudding, whipped topping, and sweet coconut flakes. Every bite tastes like a slice of nostalgia and pure happiness! ❤️

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🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick & easy – starts with a boxed cake mix!
✅ Beautiful presentation – bright layers of pink and white.
✅ Refreshing flavor – perfect for summer, holidays, or potlucks.
✅ Tastes just like a Raspberry Zinger snack cake!
✅ Make ahead-friendly – the flavor gets even better overnight.

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🍓 Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box white or vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box — usually eggs, oil, and water)
• 1 (3 oz) box raspberry Jell-O
• 1 cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water

For the Creamy Layer:

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sour cream or whipped topping

For the Topping:

• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• Fresh raspberries (optional, for garnish)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions using a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes, but keep it warm (not completely cool).

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Step 2: Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake about 1 inch apart.
Make sure the holes go about halfway down into the cake.

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Step 3: Prepare the Raspberry Jell-O

In a medium bowl, combine raspberry gelatin and boiling water. Stir until dissolved, then add cold water and mix well.

Slowly pour the liquid Jell-O over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.

Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Layer

In another bowl, whisk together vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth.
Fold in sour cream or whipped topping until light and creamy.

Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled cake.

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Step 5: Add the Whipped Topping & Coconut

Spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
Sprinkle with shredded coconut for that signature “Zinger” look and texture.

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Step 6: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for at least 2 more hours before serving.
Garnish with fresh raspberries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce just before serving.

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🍰 Optional Add-Ins & Variations

🍓 Raspberry Filling Boost: Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam between the cake and pudding layers for extra flavor.
🥥 Coconut Cream Twist: Use coconut pudding instead of vanilla for an even richer tropical flavor.
🍫 Chocolate Zinger Cake: Use chocolate cake and strawberry Jell-O for a fun variation.
🍋 Raspberry Lemon Zinger: Replace the Jell-O with lemon flavor for a bright citrus kick.

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🧊 Storage

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

This cake actually tastes better the next day because the flavors meld beautifully!

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💡 Tips for Success

💖 Poke while warm – this helps the Jell-O soak in perfectly.
💖 Use full-fat pudding mix for a creamier texture.
💖 Toast the coconut lightly before adding for extra crunch and flavor.
💖 Don’t skip the chilling time – it’s key for that moist, luscious texture.

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🍽 Perfect For

🎉 Family gatherings and potlucks
🎂 Birthday parties
🌸 Spring and summer celebrations
🍴 Holiday desserts

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💕 Final Thoughts

This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines simplicity with nostalgic flavor. The soft, moist cake infused with raspberry Jell-O, topped with creamy pudding and a cloud of whipped topping, is pure bliss in every bite. The shredded coconut adds the perfect finishing touch — sweet, tropical, and irresistible.

Whether you’re bringing dessert to a party or just treating your family to something special, this cake never disappoints. Sweet, tangy, and beautiful to look at — it’s a zingy delight you’ll want to make again and again! 🍰💗

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