Luscious Raspberry Poke Cake

Dive into the delightful world of Raspberry Poke Cake, a refreshingly easy dessert that promises to be a showstopper at any gathering. Imagine a perfectly moist cake, generously infused with the vibrant taste of raspberry gelatin, then crowned with a luscious, creamy frosting and adorned with fresh, juicy raspberries. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors, making it an instant summertime favorite and a year-round treat for dessert lovers.

Looking for more simple and satisfying cake mix recipes? Don’t miss this delightful easy peach cobbler, another fantastic dessert made effortlessly with a cake mix base.

Why You’ll Adore This Raspberry Poke Cake

This Raspberry Poke Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:

• Effortless Elegance: Despite its simple preparation, this cake boasts a sophisticated look and an incredibly delicious taste that will impress everyone. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and gourmet appeal.
• Guaranteed “Oohs and Aahs”: Prepare for compliments! The moment you cut into this cake and reveal its beautifully swirled, jello-infused interior, your guests will be captivated. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that always garners admiration.
• Unique & Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of moist cake, sweet raspberry jello, and rich whipped topping creates a light, airy texture and a unique flavor that stands out. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Celebration: Poke cakes are renowned for being fantastic party desserts. They are easy to transport, serve, and always a hit at birthdays, potlucks, holidays, or casual summer get-togethers.
• Fun and Customizable: Jello poke cakes offer endless possibilities! You can easily liven up a plain white or yellow cake mix with your favorite gelatin flavor. This recipe specifically highlights raspberry, but feel free to experiment with other fruit flavors to create your unique flavor combinations.

Essential Ingredients for Your Raspberry Poke Cake

Creating this stunning Raspberry Poke Cake requires a handful of readily available ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, often utilizing a boxed cake mix as its foundation, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

Cake Ingredients:

• 1 Box Super Moist Vanilla Cake Mix: This forms the delicious base of our cake. While vanilla is recommended for its versatility, you can also opt for a white or yellow cake mix. Remember to also have on hand the ingredients typically required to prepare the cake mix, such as oil and eggs, as specified on the box.
• Oil (e.g., Vegetable Oil): Essential for adding moisture and tenderness to the cake.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness, contributing to the cake’s fluffy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements the raspberry perfectly.

Raspberry Jello Infusion:

• 1 Box Raspberry-Flavored Gelatin (3oz): This is the star ingredient that creates the “poke” effect and infuses the cake with its vibrant raspberry flavor and color. Jell-O is a popular brand, but any raspberry gelatin brand will work beautifully.
• ¾ Cup Boiling Water: Needed to fully dissolve the gelatin powder, ensuring a smooth and consistent jello mixture.
• ½ Cup Cold Water: Added after the boiling water to cool down the gelatin mixture, preventing it from cooking the cake when poured.

Creamy Topping:

• 2 Cups Whipping Cream: Forms the base of our light and airy frosting. Ensure it’s very cold for optimal whipping results.
• 2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract: Flavors the whipped cream, adding another layer of classic sweetness.
• 4 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipping cream and helps stabilize it, creating a smooth and delicious frosting. Adjust to your preferred sweetness.
• 2 Tablespoons Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (Optional): This secret ingredient adds extra stability, richness, and a subtle vanilla flavor to your whipped topping, making it thicker and more luxurious.

Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh Raspberries: For decoration and an extra burst of fresh fruit flavor and vibrant color.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Gathering the right tools beforehand will make your baking process smooth and enjoyable. For this Raspberry Poke Cake, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment:

• 2 Mixing Bowls: One for preparing the cake batter and another for the whipped topping.
• 1 13×9 inch Baking Pan: The standard size for this type of sheet cake, perfect for easy slicing and serving.
• 1 Wooden Spoon (or similar implement): Crucial for creating the “pokes” in your cake, allowing the jello to seep in. A fork handle or even a chopstick can also work.
• Electric Mixer (Handheld or Stand Mixer): Highly recommended for efficiently whipping the cream to a perfect consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Raspberry Poke Cake

Creating this delightful Raspberry Poke Cake is a straightforward process, even for beginner bakers. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a perfectly moist, flavorful, and beautiful dessert every time. The key is to allow adequate cooling and chilling time for the best results.

Part 1: Preparing and Baking the Cake Base

1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Following the instructions on your cake mix box, combine the cake mix, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Beat until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no dry pockets of mix.
2. Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into a greased and floured 13×9 inch baking pan. Bake according to the package directions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the cake.
3. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool down in the pan for at least 20-30 minutes. It’s crucial for the cake to be partially cooled but still slightly warm when you poke the holes.

Part 2: Preparing the Raspberry Jello and Whipped Topping

1. Make the Whipped Topping: While the cake is baking, prepare your creamy topping. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the cold whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and instant vanilla pudding mix (if using). Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture on high speed until it becomes thick, fluffy, and forms soft peaks. Cover the bowl and refrigerate immediately to keep it chilled and stable.
2. Dissolve the Jello: In a medium bowl, add the raspberry gelatin powder. Pour in the ¾ cup of boiling water and whisk vigorously until the gelatin powder is completely dissolved, ensuring no granules remain.
3. Add Cold Water: Stir in the ½ cup of cold water into the dissolved gelatin mixture. This helps to cool the jello down quickly, preventing it from being too hot when it hits the cake. Set aside.

Part 3: Assembling and Chilling Your Poke Cake

4. Poke the Holes: Once the cake has cooled sufficiently (after 20-30 minutes), use the rounded handle of a wooden spoon, a fork, or a chopstick to poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the cake. Aim for holes that are about ¾ of the way deep and spaced approximately 1 inch apart. Don’t go all the way through to the bottom.
5. Infuse with Jello: Carefully and evenly ladle the slightly cooled raspberry jello mixture over the poked cake, making sure the liquid seeps into all the holes.
6. Refrigerate for Chilling: Cover the cake pan tightly with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow the cake to chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This crucial step allows the jello to set completely within the cake, creating that signature moist, flavored interior.

Part 4: Final Touches and Serving

7. Frost the Cake: When you’re ready to serve, retrieve the chilled cake and the whipped topping from the refrigerator. Spread the creamy whipped topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake.
8. Decorate and Serve: If desired, decorate your Raspberry Poke Cake with fresh raspberries for an added pop of color and flavor. Slice and serve chilled for the best experience. Enjoy!

Amira’s Expert Baking Tips for Success

Achieving a perfect Raspberry Poke Cake is easy with a few insider tips. These suggestions will help ensure your cake is moist, flavorful, and beautifully presented:

• Don’t Overbake the Cake: A common mistake is baking the cake for too long, which results in a dry texture. Follow the package instructions closely, and remove the cake from the oven as soon as a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Optimal Cooling Time for Poking: Wait 20-30 minutes after baking before poking holes. The cake should be cool enough to handle without crumbling but still slightly warm to allow the jello to absorb effectively without becoming soggy.
• Consistent Hole Spacing: For an even distribution of jello flavor throughout each slice, try to poke holes approximately 1 inch apart across the entire cake surface. Use the handle of a wooden spoon for ideal-sized holes.
• Thorough Jello Dissolution: Ensure the gelatin powder is completely dissolved in boiling water before adding cold water. Any undissolved granules can lead to an inconsistent texture or concentrated flavor pockets.
• Adequate Chilling is Key: The refrigeration step is non-negotiable. Allow the cake to chill for a minimum of 2 hours, or ideally overnight, so the jello fully sets and permeates the cake, creating its distinct moistness.
• Time-Saving Whipped Topping: If you’re short on time, a container of frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip) can be a convenient substitute for freshly whipped cream. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before spreading it on the cake.
• Enhance Your Whipped Cream: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest, a few drops of almond extract, or a tablespoon of raspberry liqueur to your homemade whipped cream.

Storage Guidelines for Your Poke Cake

Proper storage is essential to keep your Raspberry Poke Cake fresh and delicious. Since it contains a jello infusion and a dairy-based topping, refrigeration is key:

• Refrigeration: Cover any leftover poke cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days. The tight seal helps prevent the cake from drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Freezing Not Recommended: For the best texture and flavor, freezing this particular poke cake is generally not recommended. The jello can become watery and the whipped topping may lose its airy consistency upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raspberry Poke Cake

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying Raspberry Poke Cake:

Make Ahead for Easy Entertaining

This Raspberry Poke Cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert, perfect for simplifying your party preparations:

• You can prepare the cake, pour the jello over it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply top it with the whipped cream and fresh berries.
• The baked cake itself, without the jello or frosting, can be covered tightly and refrigerated for 5-6 days, allowing you to split the preparation over different days.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Your Poke Cake

This Raspberry Poke Cake is a complete dessert on its own, but you can enhance the experience with these delightful additions:

• Serve with additional fluffy whipped cream for those who love extra creaminess.
• A side of fresh mixed berries or a light berry compote can complement the raspberry flavor beautifully.
• For a touch of decadence, a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream would be a wonderful accompaniment.
• A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can add a lovely texture and tropical hint.

Creative Variations to Try

One of the joys of poke cakes is their incredible adaptability! Once you master this classic Raspberry Poke Cake, feel free to unleash your creativity with these exciting variations:

• Flavor Combinations: This cake is incredibly versatile and works wonderfully with almost any boxed cake mix and jello flavor combination.
  • Chocolate Cherry: Try a rich chocolate cake mix paired with cherry jello for a Black Forest-inspired treat.
  • Orange Creamsicle: Combine a white cake mix with orange jello and a few drops of orange extract for a nostalgic creamsicle flavor. Garnish with mandarin orange segments.
  • Lemon Blueberry Bliss: Use a lemon cake mix with blueberry jello. Top with whipped cream and a luscious blueberry pie filling for an extra fruity explosion.
  • Strawberry Delight: Swap raspberry jello for strawberry jello and use fresh strawberries for garnish.
• Zingers Style: To mimic the classic “zingers” cake, sprinkle a generous amount of sweetened coconut flakes over the whipped cream topping. You can even toast the coconut for extra flavor and crunch.
• Pudding Layer: For an even richer and more stable topping, prepare a packet of instant vanilla pudding according to its box directions. Spread this creamy pudding layer over the jello-infused cake *before* adding the whipped cream.
• Jello-Whipped Cream Swirl: For a beautiful pink hue and an extra raspberry punch in your frosting, mix a small amount of dissolved raspberry jello (cooled to room temperature) directly into your whipping cream mixture before frosting the cake.
• Fruity Whipped Cream: Fold some finely diced fresh fruits, such as peaches, strawberries, or blueberries, into your whipped cream mixture for added texture and natural sweetness.
• Powdered Whipping Cream Alternatives: If fresh whipping cream isn’t available, you can use powdered whipping cream (like Dream Whip). Consider using fruit juice instead of water to mix it, adding another layer of fruit flavor.
• Alternative Frostings: While whipped cream is classic, you can experiment with other toppings:
  • Top the cake with a smooth and tangy Simple Cream Cheese Frosting instead of Chantilly Cream for a richer finish.
  • A light lemon glaze or a simple powdered sugar glaze can also be used for a less creamy option.

Discover More Delicious Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed this Raspberry Poke Cake, you’re in for a treat! Explore other fantastic recipes that are perfect for any occasion:

• Jello desserts are always a hit, especially at parties and holidays. Try this fun and easy Strawberry Jello Cream Cheese Bundt Cake recipe, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• For chocolate lovers, this Chocolate Biscuit Cake is a special dessert with layers of broken biscuits covered in rich chocolate sauce and topped with a decadent chocolate ganache.
• Here’s an easy peach cobbler made with cake mix that you can enjoy any time of the year, offering warm, comforting flavors.
• Revani is a classic Mediterranean semolina cake drenched in lemon-infused simple syrup and topped with fragrant coconut flakes – a truly unique dessert.
• If you’re a fan of tangy and refreshing desserts, this delectable Lemon Poke Cake recipe is incredibly easy to put together and is sure to become a favorite.

Explore More Cakes and Cupcakes

Looking for more delightful baked goods? From moist cupcakes to elegant layered cakes, we have a recipe for every craving:

• Craving delicious, moist cupcakes? Try these coffee cupcakes featuring a luscious mocha buttercream frosting, ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Our Marble Loaf Cake is a delightful pound cake with vanilla and chocolate batters swirled together, creating a rich and beautiful dessert. This family recipe uses simple ingredients and is perfect for beginners.
• Indulge in a dreamy, creamy, no-bake dessert with this Tiramisu. This fabulous Italian layered dessert, combining coffee, cocoa, and mascarpone cheese, is perfect for entertaining.
• Caramel Tres Leches is a decadent and delicious Turkish cake that blends the rich flavors of caramel, milk, and a spongy cake. It’s excellent for holiday parties, potlucks, or an unusual after-dinner treat.
• For a foolproof shortcut to the classic Mexican dessert, try this Tres Leches Cake with Cake Mix. It’s a light and moist vanilla cake soaked in a perfect three-milk mixture and topped with a silky sweet whipping cream layer.

We hope you’ll adore this Raspberry Poke Cake recipe! If you make it, please snap a pic and hashtag it #amiraspantry. We love to see your delicious creations on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!

Don’t want to miss a recipe? Sign up for the FREE Amira’s Pantry newsletter delivered straight to your inbox with lots of tips and surprises! And stay in touch with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all the latest updates.

If you enjoy this recipe, please don’t forget to give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and attach a photo of your finished dish. It is always a pleasure to see your photos and check your own take on the recipe. Thank you for your support!

What’s new? Check out Amira’s Pantry Store on Amazon where you’ll find all kinds of nostalgic goodness! Thanks so much for being a part of Amira’s Pantry!

Raspberry Poke Cake

A delicious and easy dessert for your family and friends, perfect for gatherings, parties, or a delightful afternoon treat. You will not stop at one slice.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 2 users.

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Course: Cakes, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Diet: Halal

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Chill time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 345kcal

Author: Amira

Equipment

• 2 mixing bowls
• 1 13×9 inch cake pan
• 1 wooden spoon

Ingredients

Cake Base:

• 1 box super moist vanilla cake mix (you will also need the ingredients to make it, as per box instructions)

Jello Infusion:

• 1 box raspberry jello (3oz)
• ¾ cup boiling water
• ½ cup cold water

Creamy Topping:

• 2 cups whipping cream (very cold)
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 Tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 Tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix (optional, for stability and richness)

Garnish:

• Fresh raspberries (optional)

Instructions

Preparing and Baking the Cake Base:

1. Prepare and bake cake in a 13×9 inch baking pan according to package directions.
2. Let the cake cool down for 20-30 minutes in the pan.

While the cake is cooling, prepare topping and jello:

1. Add cold whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pudding mix (if using) to a large bowl. Whip until the mixture thickens and forms soft peaks. Cover and refrigerate immediately.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together jello powder and boiling water until the jello completely dissolves. Stir in the cold water.
3. Once the cake has cooled for 20-30 minutes, poke several holes in the cake using the handle of a rounded wooden spoon or a fork.
4. Ladle the jello mixture evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a couple of hours (or overnight) to allow the jello to set.
5. When ready to serve, spread the chilled whipping cream mixture evenly over the top of the cake. Decorate with fresh raspberries, if desired, slice, and serve.

Notes

• Time-saving tip: Use a container of frozen whipped topping (thawed) to top the cake instead of making your own whipped cream.

Storage:

• Cover leftover poke cake tightly or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for 5-6 days.
• For best taste, freezing is not recommended.

Variations:

• This cake is fabulous with any boxed cake mix and gelatin flavor.
• Try with chocolate cake mix and cherry jello for a unique twist.
• Combine orange jello and mandarin oranges with a white cake mix for an orange creamsicle-like cake.
• Lemon cake mix with blueberry jello topped with whipped cream and blueberry pie filling is another excellent option.
• Make it a “zingers” cake by topping with coconut flakes.
• Prepare instant vanilla pudding and spread it over the cake before the whipped cream layer for added richness.
• For a pinker frosting, mix a small amount of raspberry jello (dissolved and cooled) with the whipped cream before frosting.
• Mix fresh fruits into the whipped cream for added flavor and texture.
• You can use powdered whipping cream (like Dream Whip) and fruit juice for mixing instead of dairy cream.

Please check our nutrition disclaimer policy for more information.

Nutrition

Calories: 345kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 449mg | Potassium: 66mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 592IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 122mg | Iron: 1mg

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Mention @AmirasPantry or tag #AmirasPantry!