The Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This light and moist cake starts with a simple white cake mix, which is baked and then infused with sweet raspberry preserves. The cake is topped with a generous layer of homemade whipped cream, adding a creamy, rich contrast to the fruity filling. Garnished with fresh raspberries and mint leaves, this cake is not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this poke cake is sure to impress with its zesty and refreshing taste.
The Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is a fresh and vibrant dessert that brings together the best of both flavor and simplicity. This cake features a tender white cake base, made effortlessly with a boxed mix, which is then enhanced with the sweet and tangy flavors of raspberry preserves. The preserves seep into the cake through small poked holes, infusing it with a zesty burst of raspberry in every bite. Topped with a light and airy homemade whipped cream, this cake is finished off with a garnish of fresh raspberries and mint leaves, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
INGREDIENTS
- White Cake Mix: 1 box, prepare according to package instructions for a quick and easy cake base.
- Raspberry Preserves: 1 cup, warmed slightly to make it easier to spread over the cake and soak into the holes.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup, whipped to stiff peaks for a rich and creamy topping.
- Powdered Sugar: ¼ cup, adds sweetness to the whipped cream.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp, infuses the whipped cream with a subtle vanilla flavor.
- Fresh Raspberries: for garnish, adds a burst of fresh raspberry flavor and a pop of color.
- Mint Leaves: optional, for garnish, provides a fresh and aromatic finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Bake the white cake according to package instructions. Let cool completely.
- Step 2:
- Once the cake is cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface.
- Step 3:
- Warm the raspberry preserves slightly and spread evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Step 4:
- In a bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Step 5:
- Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Step 6:
- Garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves if desired.
- Step 7:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serving and Storage Tips
- For best results, serve the cake chilled, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- This cake can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a layer of lemon curd under the raspberry preserves.
- If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped cream.
- This cake can be easily adapted with other fruit preserves like strawberry or apricot for a different twist.
- To make the cake extra moist, drizzle a little bit of simple syrup over the cake before spreading the raspberry preserves.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Tip: Ensure your whipped cream is at stiff peaks to prevent it from becoming runny when spread over the cake.
- Chef Tip: Use a piping bag to add decorative dollops of whipped cream on top for a more elegant presentation.
- Chef Tip: For a more intense raspberry flavor, mix some freeze-dried raspberry powder into the whipped cream.
A Zesty and Refreshing Cake
The Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake is the ultimate summer dessert, offering a balance of sweet and tart flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. The combination of a moist white cake base with a burst of raspberry preserves, all topped with fluffy whipped cream, makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a delightful treat to enjoy at home, this cake is sure to impress.
Easy and Versatile Dessert Option
This poke cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Its versatility allows you to experiment with different fruit preserves and toppings, so you can customize it to your taste. The lightness of the cake, paired with the vibrant raspberry flavor, ensures that this dessert is a hit every time. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and enjoy the compliments from your guests!
FAQs
Can I use other fruit preserves instead of raspberry?
Yes, you can substitute raspberry preserves with strawberry, apricot, or any other fruit preserve of your choice.
How long does this cake need to refrigerate?
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What if I don't have heavy cream for the whipped topping?
If you don't have heavy cream, you can use store-bought whipped topping as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Summary
This Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake offers a refreshing burst of raspberry flavor in every bite. Made with a light and moist white cake, it's soaked in sweet raspberry preserves that seep into the cake for a zesty twist. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and garnished with fresh raspberries, this dessert is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a delightful treat, this poke cake is an excellent choice. Its balance of sweetness and tartness makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering.