Okay, friends, get ready for a treat. If you’re anything like me, you crave that warm, comforting flavor of eggnog the second the leaves start to change. And while I love a good glass of the real stuff, sometimes you need something a little more… substantial. That’s where this eggnog poke cake comes in. It’s like a classic vanilla poke cake, but soaked in creamy, spiced eggnog and topped with a luscious glaze. Think Tres Leches Cake, but with a holiday twist. Seriously, this thing is addictive, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. This eggnog poke cake is the perfect dessert for Christmas or just because. You gotta try this.
What is Eggnog Poke Cake?
So, what exactly *is* an eggnog Poke Cake? Well, it starts with a simple baked cake – I usually use a vanilla cake mix to keep things easy, but you could definitely make one from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious! Then, while the cake is still warm, you poke holes all over it (hence the name!). After that, you pour a generous amount of eggnog into those holes, letting it soak into every nook and cranny. It’s essentially a flavor injection that turns a regular cake into a super moist, intensely flavored dessert. The final touch is a sweet glaze, often made with more eggnog or even a rum-infused icing, which adds the perfect amount of sweetness and a beautiful finish. The beauty of this cake is how the eggnog permeates the sponge, making every bite incredibly moist and flavorful. Think of it as a flavor explosion in every mouthful!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even begin? This eggnog Poke Cake is a total crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. First, the flavor is just out of this world. The combination of the vanilla cake, the creamy eggnog, and the sweet glaze is simply irresistible. It’s like a hug in cake form, you know?
What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can totally nail this recipe. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something sweet but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. And let’s talk about the cost – the ingredients are pretty basic and budget-friendly, especially if you use a cake mix as a base. You can easily whip this up without breaking the bank.
Plus, this recipe is so versatile! You can use different types of cake mixes, experiment with various glazes, and even add some fun toppings like whipped cream, sprinkles, or chopped nuts. I sometimes add a splash of rum to the eggnog for an extra kick.
It is even better when you let it sit in the fridge for a day or two. All the flavors meld together and the cake gets even moister. If you love eggnog and you love cake, this is a match made in heaven. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed!
How to Make Eggnog Poke Cake
Quick Overview
Making this eggnog Poke Cake is seriously a breeze. You’ll start by baking a simple vanilla cake (or using a mix, like I often do – no judgment!). Then, the fun part: poking holes all over it. Next, you’ll drench the cake in luscious eggnog, letting it soak in all that goodness. Finally, you’ll top it off with a sweet, creamy glaze. The best part? It’s almost impossible to mess up! This recipe is foolproof, and it’s a guaranteed hit. This is a great way to get everyone involved.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 box Vanilla Cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water).
* Alternatively: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup milk, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2 large eggs
For the Filling:
* 3 cups eggnog (I prefer the full-fat kind for extra richness, but you can use your favorite)
* 1/4 cup rum (optional, but highly recommended for adults)!
For the Glaze:
* 4 cups powdered sugar
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/4 cup eggnog
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of nutmeg (for that extra eggnog flavor!)
How do I get
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven’s heating up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch Baking Pan. I like to use baking spray with flour already in it – it makes life so much easier! Make sure you get into all the corners to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
If you’re using a cake mix, skip this step. If you’re making a cake from scratch, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl. What is the best way to distribute baking powder evenly in a cake?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the milk, oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk them together until everything is well combined. You don’t want any streaks of egg yolk!
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix a cake. A few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into a greased pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. How do you keep a close eye on an oven?
Step 6: Prepare Filling
While the cake is baking, prepare the eggnog filling. In a small bowl, combine the eggnog and rum. Set aside.
Step 7: Poke Holes
Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes. With a wooden spoon or fork, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch. Don’t be shy – the more holes, the better eggnog goodness!
Step 8: Soak in Eggnog
Slowly pour the eggnog mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes. Do you need to do this in stages, letting the cake absorb the eggnog before adding more? Should the cake be pretty saturated?
Step 9: Make the Glaze
In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, eggnog, vanilla extract, and salt. Set aside. What are some good ways to use If the glaze is too thick, add a little more eggnog until you reach your desired consistency. If you want it thinner, add a little bit more eggnog. If its to thin add powder sugar.
Step 10: Glaze the Cake
The glaze will be spread evenly over the top of the cake. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. I like to chill the cake for a couple of hours – it makes it even more delicious!
Step 11: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze is set, slice the cake into squares and serve. Is it okay to top it with whipped cream, nutmeg, or even chopped pecans?
What should I serve it with?
What are some ideas for making eggnog poke cake?For Breakfast:Pair it with a cup of strong coffee or chai latte. The sweetness of the cake is a perfect complement to the bitterness of coffee. I like to serve it on a pretty plate with powdered sugar.For Brunch:Serve it alongside other brunch favorites like quiche, fruit salad, and mimosas. What is the best way to add sweetness to a savory spread? Garnish with Fresh Berries for an elegant presentation.As Dessert:What are some of the best after-dinner treats? Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A glass of dessert wine or a cup of hot cocoa would also be lovely.For Cozy Snacks:What is the best comfort food for a girl? Pair it with a glass of milk or herbal tea.
How do I make Eggnog Poke Cake?
Okay, so I’ve made this eggnog Poke Cake *a lot* (like, probably more than I should admit!). Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way to ensure yours turns out perfectly every single time.
First, don’t overbake the cake! A dry cake won’t soak up the eggnog properly. Aim for a golden-brown color and a toothpick that comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. I always start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
When you are poking those holes, poke generously. The more holes, the more eggnog can soak in, resulting in a super moist and flavorful cake. I like to use the handle of a wooden spoon, but a fork works just as well.
Ingredient swaps – I’ve experimented with different types of milk in the glaze, and almond milk actually works really well. It adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the eggnog nicely. You can also use different extracts, like almond or rum extract, to enhance the flavor.
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the cake batter or the eggnog filling. It will add an extra layer of warmth and flavor. Be careful not to add too much, though, as these spices can be quite potent.
If you’re worried about the cake sticking to the pan, line the bottom with parchment paper. It makes it super easy to remove the cake after baking.
Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Whipped cream, chopped nuts, sprinkles, chocolate shavings – the possibilities are endless. Get creative and have fun with it!
Finally, remember that this cake tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had time to meld together. So, if you can resist the temptation, make it a day ahead of time. You won’t regret it!
Storing and Reheating Tips
So, you’ve made this amazing eggnog Poke Cake, but you have leftovers? Here’s how to store it to keep it fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, as long as it’s covered tightly. I usually put it in an airtight container or cover the pan with plastic wrap.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container. The cool temperature also helps the cake stay moist.
Freezer Instructions: If you want to keep the cake for even longer, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, it’s best to freeze it without the glaze. Add the glaze after you thaw the cake. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy.
When it comes to reheating, it is not needed but if you want to you can microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, or they will dry out.
With these tips, you can enjoy your eggnog poke cake for days to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll agree that this eggnog Poke Cake is a must-try, especially if you’re an eggnog lover. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a festive dessert for the holidays or just a sweet treat to enjoy on a cozy night in, this cake is the perfect choice. The moist cake, the creamy eggnog, and the sweet glaze create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake recipes. I have something for every occasion!
Happy baking, and can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments below if you tried the recipe, and don’t forget to rate it. Also share your own variations!
Eggnog Poke Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
Eggnog Ingredients
- 2 cups eggnog
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and baking powder. Gradually add in wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
