Eggnog Poke Cake Recipe for a Festive Holiday Treat
Eggnog is a beloved seasonal favorite that evokes warm memories of holiday gatherings, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and the joyful spirit of the season. This creamy, spiced beverage made with milk, sugar, and eggs has become synonymous with festive celebrations, enjoyed in countless homes during the winter months. As people look for innovative ways to incorporate this holiday classic into their culinary creations, one delightful option emerges: the eggnog poke cake.
Poke cakes, known for their moist texture and flavor-packed filling, are created by poking holes in a baked cake and pouring a sweet mixture over it, allowing the flavors to soak in. When you combine the rich taste of eggnog with the fun and ease of a poke cake, you get a dessert that is both indulgent and festive. This unique fusion not only brings joy and nostalgia to your holiday celebrations but also serves as an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Whether it’s a family Christmas dinner or a New Year’s Eve party, eggnog poke cake is sure to delight guests and make the occasion even more special.
What is Eggnog Poke Cake?
Eggnog poke cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog with the fun and engaging process of making a poke cake. A poke cake is a traditional American dessert characterized by its moist texture and flavor-infused filling. The process involves baking a cake, then using the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar tool to poke holes throughout the cake. This is followed by pouring a sweet mixture—often made with condensed milk or flavored liquids—over the top, allowing it to seep into the holes and infuse the cake with flavor.
Eggnog itself has a long-standing history and cultural significance, especially during the holiday season. This luscious drink, typically made from a blend of milk, cream, sugar, and eggs, has roots that trace back to the 13th century. Known for its creamy consistency and festive spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, eggnog has become synonymous with winter celebrations and gatherings, bringing people together in joy and warmth.
The fusion of eggnog and poke cake creates a holiday favorite that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes nostalgia. The moist cake, soaked in eggnog flavor, coupled with the aromatic spices, expands on the traditional concept of a poke cake while celebrating the festive spirit of the season. This playful yet indulgent dessert serves as an impressive centerpiece for holiday gatherings, making it a standout treat at any festive table.
Ingredients for Eggnog Poke Cake
To create a delicious eggnog poke cake, you will need several key ingredients. Below is a list of what you’ll need for both the cake and the filling:
- For the Cake:
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix (or your preferred flavor)
- 1 cup eggnog
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup eggnog
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the Frosting:
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped cream or Cool Whip
- Additional nutmeg and cinnamon for garnishing
These ingredients come together to create a rich and festive dessert that is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. The combination of eggnog and warm spices not only flavors the cake but enhances the overall holiday experience.
Directions for Making Eggnog Poke Cake
Here’s how to create your own eggnog poke cake, step by step:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cake Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, eggnog, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well incorporated and smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
- Poking the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes approximately 1-2 inches apart all over the surface of the cake.
- Prepare the Eggnog Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, eggnog, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pouring the Mixture: Drizzle the eggnog mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes you’ve created.
- Chilling Time: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to absorb the liquid, enhancing its moistness.
- Frosting the Cake: After chilling, spread the whipped cream or Cool Whip topping evenly over the top of the cake, creating a smooth and luscious layer.
- Final Touches: Sprinkle some additional nutmeg on top for a festive touch, and consider adding a few cinnamon sticks as garnishes for a beautiful presentation. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your eggnog poke cake as a centerpiece or a sweet ending to any holiday meal. This easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress family and friends with its delightful flavor and festive cheer!
Tips for Perfecting Your Eggnog Poke Cake
To ensure your eggnog poke cake turns out perfectly, keep the following tips in mind:
- Use High-Quality Eggnog: Choose a premium eggnog for the best flavor and richness. Freshly made eggnog can enhance the taste significantly.
- Choosing the Right Cake Mix: While vanilla is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with spice or butter cake mixes for added flavor depth.
- Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free alternative, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Storing and Serving Suggestions: Keep leftovers stored in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. Serve the cake chilled for the best taste.
- Variations to Try: Experiment with different flavors of cake mix, or add ingredients like chocolate chips or crushed cookies to the cake batter for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the experience of enjoying your eggnog poke cake, consider these serving suggestions:
- Pair the cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea to complement its rich flavors.
- This dessert is ideal for Christmas dessert spreads or New Year’s Eve celebrations, making it a festive choice for any holiday gathering.
- Presentation Tips: Serve the cake in a decorative container or on a beautiful platter. You can also use individual serving cups or slices to create an appealing display.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your dessert can be helpful. Here is a quick overview of what you might expect per serving of eggnog poke cake:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories
- Fat: 15-18 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Protein: 4-6 grams
Keep in mind that variations in ingredients can alter these figures, especially with options for reduced-fat or sugar-free products. Always think about dietary restrictions when serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make eggnog poke cake without a cake mix? Yes, you can use a homemade cake recipe if you prefer. Just ensure it matches the consistency and flavor profile of traditional poke cakes.
- How long does eggnog poke cake last in the fridge? It can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze eggnog poke cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake without the frosting for up to 2 months. Just cover it well before freezing, and thaw completely before adding the frosting.
- What can I substitute for eggnog? If eggnog isn’t available, you can use a mixture of milk, cream, and spices (nutmeg and vanilla) to replicate the flavor.
- Is it possible to use homemade eggnog in this recipe? Absolutely! Fresh homemade eggnog can add a personal touch and enhanced flavor to your cake.
Conclusion
Eggnog poke cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the holiday spirit, infusing joy and warmth into your gatherings. With its creamy flavor and festive presentation, this cake is a must-try for everyone looking to enhance their holiday traditions. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the recipe, make it your own, and share the delightful results with family and friends this season!
eggnog poke cake
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking pan
- multiple mixing bowls
- 1 electric mixer optional
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 poking tool like a skewer or fork
- 1 whisk
- 1 spatula
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 oz
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup prepared eggnog for poking
- 1 cup whipped topping for frosting
- 1/2 cup eggnog for frosting
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- to taste ground cinnamon and nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, 1 cup of eggnog, vegetable oil, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend until just combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the eggnog liquid for the poke. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of prepared eggnog and set it aside.
- Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
- Pour the eggnog mixture over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in.
- In another mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of whipped topping, 1/2 cup of eggnog, and vanilla extract to make the frosting. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the eggnog frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
