Eggnog Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season with its rich eggnog flavor, warm spices, and creamy texture. This cake is perfect for Christmas gatherings, winter parties, or any occasion where you want to indulge in a decadent treat.
Origins of Eggnog
Eggnog has been a traditional holiday beverage for centuries, originally enjoyed in Europe before becoming popular in North America. Its creamy texture and warming spices, like nutmeg and cinnamon, evoke feelings of coziness and celebration, making it a natural choice for incorporating into festive desserts.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 2/3 cup eggnog
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Eggnog Pudding Filling:
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups eggnog
- 1/4 cup spiced rum (optional, for adults)
For the Topping:
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- Additional ground nutmeg for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggnog, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and ground nutmeg. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake according to the package instructions for a 9×13-inch cake, usually about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Make the Eggnog Pudding Filling
- Prepare the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of eggnog until smooth and thickened. If using, stir in the spiced rum for an extra festive touch.
3. Poke and Fill the Cake
- Cool the Cake: Allow the baked cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Poke Holes: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
- Pour the Pudding Mixture: Pour the prepared eggnog pudding mixture over the warm cake, making sure to fill the holes and spread it evenly across the cake’s surface.
4. Chill and Top the Cake
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour, allowing the pudding to set and the flavors to meld.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake, creating a smooth and creamy layer.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with Nutmeg: Just before serving, sprinkle ground nutmeg over the whipped topping for a festive garnish.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Each bite of Eggnog Poke Cake offers a creamy, spiced delight that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for good-quality eggnog and vanilla pudding mix for the best flavor.
- Allow Time to Chill: Chilling the cake allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly, resulting in a creamy texture.
- Keep it Cold: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Variations
- Boozy Twist: Increase the amount of spiced rum in the pudding mix for a stronger rum flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the whipped topping for added texture.
- Cinnamon Spice: Add a dash of ground cinnamon to the cake batter for an extra layer of spice.
Eggnog Poke Cake is a festive and delicious dessert that brings the flavors of the holiday season to your table. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, a winter party, or simply want to enjoy a taste of the holidays, this cake is sure to be a hit. With its creamy eggnog filling, moist vanilla cake, and airy whipped topping, it’s a dessert that embodies warmth, comfort, and celebration.
Indulge in the flavors of eggnog and spice with this Eggnog Poke Cake, and create memorable moments with friends and family. Happy baking and happy holidays!
