Eggnog Poke Cake

The first time I ever made Eggnog Poke Cake, I remember the kitchen filled with the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, echoing the cozy atmosphere of the holidays. My kids were excitedly buzzing around, eager to taste the cake that promised to bring a little holiday magic to our table. There's something about this dessert that brings back memories of festive gatherings, laughter, and the simple joy of sharing sweet treats with loved ones. It quickly became a tradition for us, a go-to recipe that makes every holiday season feel extra special.

This Eggnog Poke Cake is perfect for winter gatherings, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in with family. It's moist, rich, and tastes like Christmas in every bite. Plus, it's easy to whip up, making it a fantastic option for busy parents like me who want to bring a little cheer without too much fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be making it year after year!

Why You'll Love "Eggnog Poke Cake"

• Quick prep time: You can have this cake ready in just 45 minutes!
• Minimal ingredients: Uses simple items you probably already have in your pantry.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the festive flavors.
• Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that serves 12, ideal for holiday parties.
• Freezer-friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.
• Decadent yet light: The whipped topping gives it a creamy finish without being too heavy.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 ounces)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for that warm holiday flavor)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds a nice spice kick)
• 4 cups eggnog, divided (use your favorite brand, or homemade if you're feeling ambitious!)
• ⅓ cup canola or vegetable oil (for moisture; you can substitute melted butter for extra richness)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature helps with mixing)
• 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces each; this will give your cake a creamy layer)
• 1 tub whipped topping (8 ounces, thawed; for a light and airy finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Start by preheating your oven to the temperature indicated on your cake mix box. It's usually around 350°F (175°C), but double-check just to be sure!

Make the Cake Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir until well mixed.
2. Add the canola or vegetable oil and eggs to the dry mixture.
3. Now, pour in 2 cups of your eggnog and mix everything together until the batter is smooth. Don't worry if it looks a little runny; that's perfectly normal!

Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan. You can use a 9x13 inch pan for this recipe.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly by this point!

Poke and Soak

1. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a sturdy fork, poke holes all over the top of the cake. This is where all that delicious eggnog will soak in!
3. Carefully pour half of the remaining eggnog over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Take a moment to admire your handiwork!

Prepare the Pudding

1. In a separate mixing bowl, take the remaining 2 cups of eggnog and whisk in the instant vanilla pudding mix. Keep mixing until it thickens up nicely.
2. Once thickened, spread the pudding mixture evenly over the top of the cake, covering it completely. It's going to be so creamy and delightful!

Add the Topping

1. Now, grab your tub of thawed whipped topping and dollop it generously over the pudding layer. Spread it out to cover the cake fully.
2. For an extra festive touch, you can sprinkle a bit of additional nutmeg on top if you like.
3. Finally, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together beautifully!

Variations

• For a chocolate twist, substitute half of the vanilla cake mix with chocolate cake mix.
• Make it dairy-free by using almond or coconut milk eggnog and dairy-free whipped topping.
• Add a splash of rum extract for a boozy flavor reminiscent of traditional eggnog.
• Incorporate crushed gingerbread cookies into the pudding layer for a spiced crunch.
• Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve the Eggnog Poke Cake chilled for the best experience. It pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness. Slice it into generous squares, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Storage

Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze individual pieces for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing!

Helpful Notes

• If you don't have eggnog, you can substitute with buttermilk or a mix of milk and vanilla extract.
• For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of eggnog in the pudding mix.
• Feel free to add chocolate chips to the cake batter for a chocolatey surprise!
• For those with dairy allergies, check for dairy-free alternatives for pudding and whipped topping.
• This cake is also a great base for holiday-themed sprinkles or edible glitter on top!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Eggnog Poke Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Eggnog Poke Cake! Just make sure to wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

How can I substitute ingredients?

You can easily substitute ingredients in this recipe! For the cake mix, a chocolate cake mix works great for a different flavor. If you don't have eggnog, you can use buttermilk mixed with a splash of vanilla extract. For the whipped topping, you can use homemade whipped cream if you prefer.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Eggnog Poke Cake is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake and soak the cake the day before your event. Just make sure to add the pudding and whipped topping on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before serving.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my dear friend! This Eggnog Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it's a cozy hug on a plate that brings the warmth of the holidays right into your home. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and see how it can become a cherished part of your family traditions, just like it has for mine. Remember, cooking is all about the love and joy you bring to the table. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful cake, and create sweet memories together. Happy baking!