Sweet and Tart Perfection: Your Guide to a 4-Point Weight Watchers Raspberry Poke Cake

Classic poke cake recipes are cherished for their delightful simplicity and incredible moistness. Now, imagine a version that not only delivers on flavor and texture but also aligns perfectly with your health goals! This revolutionary Raspberry Poke Cake is a game-changer, offering a generous, satisfying slice for just 4 Weight Watchers points. Infused with vibrant sugar-free raspberry Jello, this cake promises an extraordinarily moist crumb and a burst of refreshing fruity flavor in every bite, making it an ideal healthy dessert choice for any occasion.

The secret to its irresistible charm lies in the brilliant balance of sweet and tart notes from the raspberry Jello. Not only does it impart a sensational taste, but it also gives the cake an eye-catching, vibrant pink hue that’s sure to impress. To elevate this treat further, we’ve crafted an optional, yet highly recommended, zero-point raspberry mousse topping. This creamy, smooth mousse, powered by Greek yogurt, introduces a lovely tanginess that perfectly complements the cake’s sweetness. It also provides a welcome protein boost, making it a far more sophisticated and nutritious alternative to traditional whipped cream toppings. You’ll find it adds an undeniable special touch that transforms a simple cake into a truly memorable dessert experience.

Beyond its fantastic taste and health benefits, this healthy cake is incredibly time-efficient to prepare. You’ll have it in the oven in less than 20 minutes! While it does require some hands-off resting time in the refrigerator after the Jello mixture is poured, the active preparation is minimal. The anticipation builds as the cake chills, promising a reward of moist, fruity bliss. From your very first forkful, you’ll be captivated by its moist-yet-cakey texture and the tantalizing raspberry explosion. Get ready to add this amazing raspberry poke cake recipe to your repertoire of must-try Weight Watchers desserts this summer, or any time you crave a guilt-free indulgence!

Why This Raspberry Poke Cake Recipe is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a dessert that marries incredible flavor with mindful eating, this Raspberry Poke Cake is an absolute winner. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

• Unforgettably Delicious: This isn’t just any poke cake; it’s arguably the best! The combination of a light, tender cake with the bright, fruity essence of raspberry Jello creates a truly scrumptious dessert. It’s particularly refreshing for summertime gatherings, and when paired with the optional zero-point raspberry mousse topping, the vibrant raspberry flavor truly shines through, offering a delightful sensory experience.
• Effortless Preparation & Assembly: One of the greatest advantages of poke cakes is their ease of creation. Unlike multi-layered or intricately frosted cakes, there’s no need for tricky unmolding or complex stacking. You can bake and serve this Jello cake right in the same pan, simplifying cleanup and saving you valuable time in the kitchen. This makes it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
• Ideal for Any Gathering: Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply bringing a dish to a potluck, this simple yet profoundly flavorful cake will be a crowd-pleaser. Its robust structure and the fact that it stays in its baking dish make it incredibly easy to transport, ensuring your delicious dessert arrives intact and ready to be enjoyed. It’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
• Weight Watchers Friendly Indulgence: For those managing their intake, finding a dessert that feels truly indulgent without derailing progress can be a challenge. This recipe brilliantly solves that problem, offering a substantial slice for just 4 Weight Watchers points. It proves that you don’t have to sacrifice deliciousness to stick to your goals, making healthy eating a more enjoyable journey.
• Versatile and Customizable: While the raspberry version is a star, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for endless customization. You can easily switch out Jello flavors or add different extracts and toppings to create a unique dessert every time. This versatility ensures it never gets boring and can be tailored to suit any preference or season.

Recipe Snapshot

Get a quick overview of what to expect from this delightful Raspberry Poke Cake:

• Serving Size: 1 generous cake slice
• Number of Servings: 9 slices per cake
• Time to Cook: 30 – 35 minutes (baking time)
• Prep Time (Active): Approximately 20 minutes
• Resting/Chill Time: Minimum 2-3 hours for the Jello to set (plus 1 hour for mousse setting)
• WW Points Per Slice: A fantastic 4 points per slice, or 32 points for the entire cake. You can view this recipe directly in the WW app by clickinghere (Weight Watchers login required).

Essential Ingredients for Your WW Raspberry Poke Cake

Crafting this light and flavorful poke cake requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that contribute to its delicious taste and low point value. Here’s what you’ll need for both the cake and the optional, yet highly recommended, zero-point raspberry mousse topping.

For the Moist Vanilla Cake Base:

• ⅓ cup Light butter substitute: Opt for a brand like “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter, Light” for a significant reduction in fat and calories without sacrificing moisture.
• 1 cup Zero-calorie sweetener: It’s crucial to use a cup-for-cup sugar substitute, such as monk fruit powder, to maintain the recipe’s low point count. Regular sugar would drastically increase the points.
• 1 Large Egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cake’s structure and richness.
• 2 tsp Vanilla extract: Adds a classic, warm undertone that complements the bright raspberry flavor beautifully.
• 1 ¾ tsp Lemon juice: A touch of acidity helps activate the baking soda and brightens the overall flavor profile of the cake.
• ⅔ cup Unsweetened plain almond milk or skim milk: These low-calorie milk options are essential for keeping the Weight Watchers points down. Avoid higher-fat milks unless you adjust the points accordingly.
• 1 ⅔ cup All-purpose flour: The foundational ingredient for the cake’s tender crumb.
• ½ tsp Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• 2 tsp Baking soda: The leavening agent that gives the cake its light and airy texture.
• 0.3 oz Zero-sugar, Low-calorie raspberry Jello powder: This is the star of the poke cake! You’ll mix it with water to create the infusing liquid. If you purchase a larger box (like a 0.6 oz family size), you can split it between the cake and the optional topping.

For the Optional Zero-Point Raspberry Mousse Topping:

• 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt: Provides the creamy base for the mousse. Opt for plain, non-fat Greek yogurt to keep the points at zero while adding a significant protein boost.
• 0.3 oz Zero-sugar, Low-calorie raspberry Jello powder: The other half of your 0.6 oz box, or a separate 0.3 oz package. This helps set the mousse and imparts the vibrant raspberry flavor.
• Optional: 2-3 teaspoons Powdered sugar: If you prefer a sweeter topping, a small amount of powdered sugar can be added to taste without significantly impacting the points.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Your Delightful Raspberry Poke Cake

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly moist and flavorful Raspberry Poke Cake that’s sure to become a family favorite. Precision in these steps will ensure the best texture and infusion of Jello.

1. Prepare Your Oven and Wet Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the light butter substitute and the zero-calorie sweetener. Beat them together using an electric mixer until they are well combined and light and fluffy. This aeration is key for a tender cake.
2. Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: To the creamed mixture, add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Continue mixing until all these wet ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed and no dry pockets remain.
3. Add Dry Ingredients & Mix Batter: Now, add the remaining dry ingredients for the cake (all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda) alternately with the unsweetened plain almond milk or skim milk. Mix at a medium to low speed just until the batter comes together and there are no visible lumps of flour. Be cautious not to over-mix the batter; over-mixing can lead to a tough and crumbly cake texture.
4. Bake the Cake: Lightly grease an 8-inch square cake pan or a 9-inch round pan. Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the pan. Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is fully baked when it turns a beautiful golden brown and, when lightly pressed on top with your finger, it springs back. A toothpick inserted into the center should also come out clean.
5. Cool and Prepare Jello Mixture: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. While the cake is cooling, prepare your Jello mixture. In a separate bowl, combine 0.3 ounces of raspberry Jello powder with 1 cup of hot (preferably boiling) water. Stir thoroughly until the Jello powder is completely dissolved. Then, add 1 cup of cold water and mix again to combine, ensuring the mixture is evenly cooled.

6. Poke and Infuse the Cake: This is the signature step of a poke cake! Using the back of a spoon, a large straw, or even the handle of a wooden spoon, poke large holes evenly across the entire surface of the cooled cake. Aim for holes that are substantial enough to create visible streaks of Jello. Carefully pour the prepared Jello mixture over the entire cake, ensuring it seeps into all the poked holes. Also, pour some Jello over the surface where there are no holes to fully saturate the cake. If you prefer a less intensely saturated cake, you can choose to use slightly less Jello mixture.
7. Chill for Setting: Once the Jello has been poured, transfer the cake (still in its pan) to the refrigerator. Allow it to chill and set for a minimum of two to three hours. This crucial step allows the Jello to fully absorb into the cake, creating its characteristic moist texture and vibrant color streaks. The longer it chills, the better the Jello will set.
8. Prepare the Optional Raspberry Mousse Topping: While the cake is chilling, or once it has chilled for at least an hour, you can prepare the optional raspberry mousse topping. In a clean bowl, measure 1 ½ cups of plain Greek yogurt. Gradually add 0.3 ounces of the dry zero-sugar, low-calorie raspberry Jello powder. Start with slightly less Jello powder if you’re unsure, and add more to achieve your preferred tartness and flavor intensity. Mix thoroughly until the Jello powder is completely incorporated and the yogurt mixture begins to thicken nicely. If you desire a sweeter mousse, gently fold in 2 to 3 teaspoons of powdered sugar.
9. Apply Topping and Final Chill: After the cake has been refrigerated for at least one hour (and ideally longer), spread the prepared raspberry mousse topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake. Once topped, return the cake to the refrigerator for another hour. This final chilling period allows the mousse to set beautifully and marry with the cake flavors.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once thoroughly chilled and set, remove the cake from the refrigerator. Cut it into 9 even slices. Garnish with fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint if desired, and serve immediately. Remember to keep any leftover cake chilled to maintain its freshness and integrity, especially due to the Greek yogurt topping.

Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions for Your Poke Cake

The beauty of this poke cake recipe lies in its adaptability! While the raspberry version is exquisite, you can easily customize it to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are numerous ways to put your own spin on this delightful dessert, from simple ingredient swaps to exciting flavor combinations.

• Optimize for Fewer Points: If you’re looking to reduce the Weight Watchers points per slice even further, simply cut the cake into 12 slices instead of 9. This slight adjustment can help manage your intake without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
• Sweetener vs. Granulated Sugar: This recipe is specifically designed around a cup-for-cup zero-calorie sugar replacement (like monk fruit powder) to achieve its low Weight Watchers point value. If you opt to use regular granulated sugar instead, be aware that the point count per slice would significantly increase, potentially bumping it up to 10 points per slice.
• Exploring Milk Alternatives: Unsweetened plain almond milk or skim milk are chosen for this recipe due to their low-calorie and low-fat profiles, which help keep the Weight Watchers points minimal. If you decide to use other types of milk (e.g., whole milk, oat milk, or soy milk), it will likely affect the overall point value. Remember to always adjust the recipe in your Weight Watchers app’s recipe builder to accurately reflect any changes.
• Strawberry Sensation Poke Cake: A straightforward and equally delicious variation! Simply swap out the raspberry Jello for strawberry Jello. The vibrant red color and classic sweet strawberry flavor will make for a delightful treat.
• Tropical Coconut Raspberry Poke Cake: Raspberry and coconut are a match made in heaven. To create a luxurious Raspberry Coconut Poke Cake, follow all the assembly instructions as written. Before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of lightly toasted coconut flakes over the top of the cake. For an even deeper coconut flavor within the cake itself, consider substituting 1 teaspoon of coconut extract for the vanilla extract in the batter.
• Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Poke Cake: The combination of chocolate and raspberry is a timeless classic. How delicious does a chocolate raspberry poke cake sound? Experiment by using raspberry Jello for the cake soak as instructed, but then prepare a chocolate-flavored Jello mixture (ensure it’s sugar-free) for the mousse topping. This creates a wonderful contrast in colors and flavors.
• Zesty Lemon Raspberry Poke Cake: For a bright and tangy twist, transform this into a Lemon Raspberry Poke Cake. You can substitute the vanilla extract in the cake batter with an equal amount of fresh lemon juice (or lemon extract for a stronger lemon punch). Then, use lemon Jello for either the cake soak or for the optional mousse topping, creating a refreshing citrusy explosion.
• Other Fruity Jello Flavors: Don’t limit yourself to raspberry! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Consider trying other sugar-free Jello flavors like cherry, lime, peach, or even orange for different fruit-infused experiences. Each flavor will bring its own unique character to the cake.

Expert Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Poke Cake

Achieving poke cake perfection is easy with a few insider tips. These suggestions will help ensure your Raspberry Poke Cake is as moist, flavorful, and visually appealing as possible.

• Jello Package Sizes Matter: Always double-check the ounces of your sugar-free Jello package. Most standard sugar-free boxes are 0.3 oz, but some brands offer family-size boxes, which are often 0.6 oz. If you plan to make both the cake’s Jello infusion and the optional mousse topping, a 0.6 oz box is perfect as it contains enough for both. Otherwise, purchase two 0.3 oz boxes.
• Proper Cake Cooling is Key: Allow your cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes after baking before you start poking holes and pouring the Jello. Pouring Jello into a very hot cake can cause it to break apart or the Jello to evaporate too quickly. Conversely, if the cake is completely cold, it may not absorb the Jello as effectively.
• Don’t Rush the Chill Time: The refrigerator setting time is non-negotiable for a true poke cake experience. The Jello needs adequate time (2-3 hours minimum for the cake itself, plus an additional hour if adding the mousse) to fully set within the cake’s pores. Rushing this step will result in a less moist cake and runny Jello.
• Create Visible Jello Streaks: While small holes will evenly distribute the Jello, using the back of a spoon, a large straw, or even a chopstick to poke larger holes creates those beautiful, distinct streaks of color that poke cakes are famous for. Aim for holes that are about ½ to ¾ inch in diameter and spaced about an inch apart.
• Avoid Over-Mixing the Batter: As mentioned in the instructions, over-mixing cake batter can develop the gluten too much, leading to a dense, tough, or crumbly cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined and no dry streaks of flour remain.
• Don’t Frost Too Soon: If you’re adding the Greek yogurt mousse topping, ensure the cake has thoroughly chilled and the Jello is well-set before spreading the mousse. Applying the topping too early can cause it to melt or be absorbed by the still-warm cake, affecting its texture and appearance.
• Storage and Serving: Due to the Greek yogurt in the optional topping and the Jello infusion, this cake must be stored in the refrigerator. It will remain delicious for 3-4 days when properly chilled. Try to avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods, especially on warmer days, to maintain its freshness and safety.

Serving Suggestions and Smart Storage

This Raspberry Poke Cake is delightful on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate your serving experience. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each slice with a few fresh raspberries and a tiny sprig of fresh mint. A light dusting of powdered sugar (if not concerned about extra points or sweetness) can also add a beautiful finish. While it’s perfect as a refreshing dessert after any meal, it also makes a lovely addition to brunch spreads or afternoon tea. Remember, due to the dairy in the mousse and the Jello, always keep the cake refrigerated. It’s best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

• Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! This cake is excellent for making ahead. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld and the Jello has fully set. You can prepare the entire cake, including the mousse topping, one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
• What if I don’t have a zero-calorie sweetener? While a cup-for-cup zero-calorie sweetener is crucial for the low Weight Watchers point count, you can use regular granulated sugar. However, as noted in the variations section, this will significantly increase the point value per slice. Always adjust your points in the WW app.
• How can I ensure my cake is extra moist? The Jello infusion is the primary way this cake achieves its incredible moistness. Ensure you poke large enough holes and allow ample chilling time for the Jello to fully absorb. Not over-mixing the batter also contributes to a tender, moist crumb.
• Can I use a different Jello flavor? Yes, absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with any sugar-free Jello flavor you enjoy, such as cherry, lime, peach, or orange. Just be mindful that some flavors might alter the overall point count slightly if they contain different ingredients, so always double-check.
• Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Freezing poke cakes can be tricky due to the Jello and the mousse topping, which can change texture upon thawing. While possible, it’s generally recommended to enjoy this cake fresh from the refrigerator within 3-4 days for the best quality.

More Delicious & Healthy Dessert Ideas

If you loved this Raspberry Poke Cake, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes:

Coconut Raspberry Chocolate Cake

Raspberry Lemon Cake Donuts

Mini Raspberry White Chocolate Cupcakes

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Raspberry Poke Cake

Servings: 9

Prep: 20 minutes mins

Cook: 30 minutes mins

Resting Time: 2 hours hrs

Fruity and light cake with eye-catching raspberry jello streaks.

Equipment

• 8-inch square baking dish or 9-inch round cake pan

Ingredients 

• ▢ ⅓ cup Light butter substitute, I used I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter, Light
• ▢ 1 cup Zero-calorie sweetener, must use a cup-for-cup sugar substitute (I used monk fruit powder)
• ▢ 1 Egg
• ▢ 2 tsp Vanilla extract
• ▢ 1 ¾ tsp Lemon juice
• ▢ ⅔ cup Unsweetened plain almond milk , or skim milk
• ▢ 1 ⅔ cup All-purpose flour
• ▢ ½ tsp Salt
• ▢ 2 tsp Baking soda
• ▢ 0.3 oz Zero-sugar, Low-calorie raspberry Jello powder (you will mix with water), (I used a 0.6 oz box and used half for the cake filling, half for the frosting)

Optional Topping:

• ▢ 1 ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ▢ 0.3 oz Zero-sugar Low-calorie raspberry Jello powder

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Instructions 

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix the light butter substitute and the zero-calorie sweetener until combined.
• Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until thoroughly incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, and then add the remaining ingredients (minus the Jello). Mix at medium to low speed to form the cake batter, ensuring there are no lumps. Be careful not to over-mix, as it will make the cake crumbly!
• Transfer the cake batter to a greased 8-inch square cake pan or 9-inch round pan. Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes or until thoroughly baked. It will be golden brown, and if you press the top with your finger, it will spring back.
• Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes. Make the Jello mixture by combining 0.3 ounces of Jello powder with 1 cup of hot water to dissolve the Jello. Add in 1 cup of cold water, mixing to combine.
• Poke large holes in the cake, then fill the holes with the Jello mixture. Also, pour some Jello over the entire cake, even where the holes aren’t. If you don’t want the cake entirely saturated, you don’t have to use all of the Jello! Allow the cake to set in the refrigerator for at least two to three hours before serving.
• For optional Raspberry mousse topping, Measure 1 ½ cups of Greek yogurt. Add 0.3 ounces (or slightly less and work your way up, depending on your taste preferences) of the dry Jello powder, mixing to combine. It will thicken nicely. You can also add 2 to 3 teaspoons of powdered sugar if you want it to be sweeter.
• Spread over the top of the cake after it has been refrigerated for at least 1 hour, then return to the fridge for another hour. Cut the cake into 9 even slices and serve! Keep chilled.

Notes

4 WW points when cut into nine even slices (with or without topping)

Nutrition

Serving: 61gCalories: 119kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 5.6gFat: 3.2gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 422mgPotassium: 82mgFiber: 0.7gSugar: 1.2gCalcium: 67mgIron: 0.4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Baking, Dessert

Cuisine: American, Dessert

Tried this recipe?Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny!