Deliciously Whimsical Pink Jelly Cakes for Your Next Celebration

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As I opened the fridge door, the vibrant colors of my ingredients caught my eye, and I couldn t resist. With a playful spirit, I decided to whip up a batch of delightful Pink Jelly Cakes, a charming Australian treat that instantly transports me back to childhood celebrations. There s something irresistibly festive about these bright, fruity cakes, rolled in coconut and bursting with flavor.

Perfect for occasions like birthdays or Mother s Day, their light and fluffy texture will have everyone coming back for seconds. With each bite, you experience a whimsical blend of sweet vanilla cake enveloped in colorful jelly, reminiscent of sunny picnics and joyous gatherings. But what truly sets these cakes apart is their effortless appeal like a whimsical surprise in the middle of the dessert table, they hold the power to make any moment special. Join me in creating this enchanting recipe that promises both nostalgia and delight!

Why are Pink Jelly Cakes so irresistible?

Whimsical Charm: These delightful cakes are a celebration of color and flavor, making them a show-stopping addition to any gathering.
Light and Fluffy: With a tender texture, they melt in your mouth, providing a perfect balance to the rich flavors.
Fun and Festive: The vibrant jelly and coconut coating create a playful aesthetic that s perfect for parties and special occasions.
Versatile Treat: With simple swaps, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit any taste, whether it s berry or citrus.
Nostalgic Connection: Each bite transports you back to joyful childhood memories, making them not just a dessert, but a delightful experience.
Effortless Preparation: Quick to make and easy to assemble, these cakes save you time for celebration, allowing you to spend more moments enjoying with loved ones.

Pink Jelly Cakes Ingredients

Get ready to create a whimsical treat!

For the Cake
Caster Sugar Sweetness to enhance flavor; granulated sugar can be used, though it may alter texture slightly.
Eggs Provide structure and moisture; for a vegan option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute.
Margarine Adds moisture and flavor; unsalted butter or a vegan alternative can be swapped seamlessly.
Milk Helps maintain cake moisture; feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk for a non-dairy version.
Self-Raising Flour Offers leavening for a light texture; all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder works as a fine alternative.
Vanilla Extract Enhances the cake s overall flavor profile; almond extract can also be used for a nutty twist.

For the Filling
Icing Sugar Mixture A sweet creamy filling; powdered sugar blended until smooth can be used effectively.
Raspberry Jam Adds fruity flavor and a sweet contrast; you can interchange with any fruit preserves you prefer.

For the Jelly Coating
Raspberry Jelly Crystals Provide the signature fruity gel texture; strawberry jelly can be used for a delightful variation.
Strawberry Jelly Crystals For dipping the cakes; experimenting with different berry jellies can bring unique flavors to your Pink Jelly Cakes.

For the Coating
Desiccated Coconut Adds flavor and texture; shredded coconut can serve as a suitable substitute if needed.

With these ingredients in hand, you re set to make Pink Jelly Cakes that dazzle both the eyes and the taste buds, making any occasion feel special!

How to Make Pink Jelly Cakes

1. Preheat your oven to 180 °C/160 °C (fan-forced) and prepare a 20cm x 30cm lamington pan with baking paper to ensure easy removal later.
2. Beat margarine, caster sugar, and vanilla in an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your cake.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition; this ensures a well-incorporated batter that rises perfectly.
4. Fold in the milk and sifted self-raising flour in two batches, making sure to be gentle to keep the cake light and airy.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top before baking for about 25 minutes, or until it s lightly golden brown.
6. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing it to set perfectly.
7. Prepare the jelly by dissolving the raspberry jelly crystals in boiling water; then add cold water and refrigerate until set around the edges, but still slightly soft.
8. Blend margarine and vanilla in a clean bowl until creamy, then gradually add the icing sugar, mixing in milk until you achieve a smooth frosting.
9. Cut the cooled cake into 24 even squares; dip each square into the jelly, allowing any excess to drip off before rolling them in desiccated coconut.
10. Chill the coated cakes in the refrigerator for about an hour; then slice each cake in half, filling with raspberry jam and frosting before sandwiching them back together.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra coconut on top before serving for an extra touch of whimsy!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Pink Jelly Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. For the best flavor and texture, prepare the jelly about 3 hours before serving; this allows it to set properly without losing its delightful consistency. Once the cakes are baked and completely cooled, feel free to cut them into squares and refrigerate them, ensuring a quick assembly when you re ready. When it s time to serve, simply dip the cakes in the prepared jelly and coat them with coconut, filling them with jam and frosting just before enjoying. This way, you ll have whimsical, delicious Pink Jelly Cakes ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Pink Jelly Cakes

Airtight Container: Store your Pink Jelly Cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and moist.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the uncoated cakes individually wrapped in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen cakes, thaw them in the fridge overnight before coating them with jelly and coconut, as this helps maintain their airy texture.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cakes, gently warm them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as this may affect the jelly coating.

What to Serve with Pink Jelly Cakes?

These delightful treats deserve a celebration-worthy spread that highlights their playful flavors and textures.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits will add freshness and a juicy contrast, enhancing the fruity essence of the cakes.
• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream complements the cakes sweetness while providing a creamy texture that balances the jelly s fruity tang.
• Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy, citrusy beverage brings a refreshing zest that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the Pink Jelly Cakes.
• Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For the chocolate lovers, a warm chocolate sauce offers a decadent twist and pairs surprisingly well with the coconut coating.
• Buttercream Frosting Swirls: Add extra layers of flavor by serving cakes with piping of rich vanilla buttercream that echoes the cake s delicate texture.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luxurious touch, melting slightly into each cake bite for a delightful temperature contrast.
• Tropical Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of mango or passion fruit sorbet enhances the festive feeling while adding a vibrant hint of tropical flavor to the occasion.
• Homemade Lemonade with Mint: The fresh mint and citrus notes will elevate your dessert experience and create a refreshing counterpoint to the sugary cakes.

Pink Jelly Cakes Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and add your own unique spin to these delightful cakes!

• Berry Bonanza: Swap raspberry jelly for mixed berry jelly for a colorful twist. Each bite will surprise you with different fruity flavors!

• Citrus Zing: Replace raspberry jam with lemon curd for a zesty filling. The tangy flavor will be a refreshing change that brightens up every bite.

• Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for a luxurious finish. The rich chocolate will add a decadent layer to contrast the fruity sweetness.

• Nutty Delight: Incorporate crushed nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into the coconut coating. This adds a delightful crunch to the soft texture of the cakes.

• Vegan Friendly: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs and a vegan butter substitute to make this a delicious vegan treat that everyone can enjoy!

• Creamy Center: Layer in some cream cheese frosting with the jam filling for a richer and creamier texture. This addition bursts with creaminess with each bite!

• Sour Sensation: Mix a bit of sour cream into the frosting for a tangy flavor boost. This addition will create a beautifully balanced sweetness that tantalizes your taste buds.

Each of these variations brings something special to the table, inviting you to make these Pink Jelly Cakes your own!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pink Jelly Cakes

• Jelly Consistency: Make sure the jelly is thick but not fully set; this prevents dripping and creates a beautiful coating for your Pink Jelly Cakes.
• Sharp Knife Required: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into squares; this helps achieve clean edges and prevents the cake from crumbling.
• Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cakes to chill thoroughly after coating; this step is essential to maintain their shape and enhance the overall flavor.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don t hesitate to try different berry jellies for unique flavors; strawberry or mixed berry jellies can add a delightful twist to your Pink Jelly Cakes.
• Coconut Coating: If you prefer a different texture, shredded coconut works just as well; make sure to evenly coat each cake for a beautiful finish.

Pink Jelly Cakes Recipe FAQs

What kind of sugar should I use for Pink Jelly Cakes?
Caster sugar is ideal for these cakes because it dissolves easily, contributing to the light and fluffy texture. You can substitute it with granulated sugar, but keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly due to the larger granules of granulated sugar.

How should I store leftover Pink Jelly Cakes?
Absolutely! Store your Pink Jelly Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you re making them for a big celebration, preparing them a day in advance is a fantastic idea, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Can I freeze Pink Jelly Cakes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each uncoated cake square tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before coating them with jelly and coconut.

What should I do if my jelly is too runny for coating?
If your jelly isn t setting to the right consistency, try refrigerating it for a bit longer until it becomes thicker but not fully set. The ideal consistency should be thick enough to cling to the cakes without dripping off completely. You can also try dissolving the jelly crystals in less water than directed to achieve a firmer setting.

Are there any allergy considerations for Pink Jelly Cakes?
Yes! Since these cakes use eggs and dairy in their base, individuals with egg or lactose allergies should consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute and non-dairy milk options like almond or oat milk. Ensure all your ingredients, especially the jellies and coatings, are allergy-friendly.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Pink Jelly Cakes?
To enhance flavor, feel free to mix different berry jellies or even add a layer of lemon zest for a citrusy twist. Additionally, swirls of cream cheese frosting inside can give a richer taste. Remember, the more the merrier when it comes to flavors let your creativity shine!