Embrace the holiday spirit with this Eggnog Poke Cake, a perfect festive treat that brings the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog into a delicious, easy-to-make cake. This cake starts with a simple boxed cake mix, infused with eggnog, and topped with a luscious layer of whipped topping and a sprinkle of nutmeg. It’s the ideal dessert for Christmas gatherings or any winter celebration when you want a sweet treat that captures the flavors of the season.
Let’s dive into the recipe, along with some helpful tips and variations to make this cake uniquely yours!
Table of Contents:
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Baking Tips and Tricks
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
For the Poke Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup eggnog
For the Topping
- 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (or to taste)
- Optional: freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggnog, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and nutmeg. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined and smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Poke Holes: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the cake, making sure the holes go deep to absorb the filling.
- Add the Eggnog Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and eggnog. Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Once the cake has cooled, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the entire cake. Sprinkle with ground nutmeg for extra holiday flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Baking Tips and Tricks
- Poking Holes: The more holes you poke, the better the filling can seep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
- Eggnog Flavor: For a stronger eggnog flavor, you can add a teaspoon of rum extract or bourbon to the cake batter for that classic holiday taste.
- Whipped Topping Alternative: You can use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping if you prefer a fresher taste.
Variations
1. Spiced Eggnog Poke Cake
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cloves to the cake batter to enhance the warm spices of the eggnog flavor.
2. Boozy Eggnog Poke Cake
Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of rum or bourbon into the eggnog filling for a boozy twist that’s perfect for an adult holiday party.
3. Chocolate Eggnog Poke Cake
Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a rich chocolate version with hints of eggnog and nutmeg – a delightful combination!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly for this recipe. You can also use homemade eggnog if you prefer.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as they sit, making this cake great for making ahead of time.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It’s actually best when it’s had time to chill and let the flavors meld.
Eggnog Poke Cake is a festive and flavorful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. With its rich eggnog filling, creamy whipped topping, and hint of nutmeg, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a holiday party or simply to treat your family, this cake is easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying. Don’t hesitate to try out the variations or put your own twist on it – however you make it, this cake is guaranteed to bring holiday cheer!
Happy baking, and enjoy this festive treat!
