EGGNOG POKE CAKE

Eggnog Poke Cake combines the festive flavors of eggnog and nutmeg into a delicious dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. Using simple ingredients like white cake mix, eggnog, and Cool Whip, it creates a moist and flavorful treat that captures the essence of holiday baking.

With a base of white cake infused with eggnog and nutmeg, this eggnog cake is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The addition of instant vanilla pudding enhances the cake’s creaminess, while the Cool Whip topping adds a light and fluffy finish. This poke cake recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes that evoke the warmth of the holidays!

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a unique dessert that features holes poked into a baked cake. This allows for an infusion of flavors from a flavorful liquid or filling. The liquid seeps into the holes, creating a moist and flavorful cake. This method enhances flavor and texture, making the cake more enjoyable.

They are particularly popular for their ease of preparation and the ability to customize flavors. Common variations include adding toppings like whipped cream or fruit. Poke cakes are versatile and can be made for various occasions, from holidays to casual gatherings. Different cake mixes and fillings can lead to a variety of taste combinations.

Why you’ll love this Eggnog Poke Cake Recipe

• Festive Flavors: Eggnog and nutmeg add a seasonal taste that evokes holiday vibes. The combination of these ingredients create a festive touch that’s perfect for holidays or special gatherings!
• Moist Texture: The poke method ensures that every slice is infused with delicious flavor. This Eggnog Poke Cake combines rich flavors with a moist texture. It offers a delightful twist on traditional cake recipes.
• Versatile Presentation: Whether served at a family gathering or a winter celebration, it’s a crowd-pleaser. This cake can also be made ahead of time, making it a practical choice for busy bakers. It can be dressed up for parties or served casually.

Ingredients in Eggnog Poke Cake

White cake mix: You will need one 15.25-ounce box of white cake mix.

Water: Use 1 cup of water for the bulk of the liquid needed to make the cake.

Oil: Add in ½ cup of oil, vegetable, canola oil, or even coconut oil works great.

Eggs: Follow the directions on the box as far as how many eggs you need, most mixes call for 3 large eggs.

Eggnog: You will need 2 cups of eggnog, whatever variety you like the best will work.

Nutmeg: 1 tsp of ground nutmeg pairs perfectly with the eggnog in this cake! Plus you’ll need a little extra for sprinkling on the cake.

Instant vanilla pudding: Use one 3.4-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding for the filling in this cake.

Cool Whip: Spread one 8-ounce tub of cool whip on top of this cake. Make sure it is completely thawed before spreading.

How to make Eggnog Poke Cake

Prep

Preheat the oven to 350° F and spray a 9×13 pan with non-stick cooking spray, set it aside.

Cake

In a large bowl, whisk to combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, place in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or as the box instructions direct. Let the cake cool completely before proceeding to the next steps.

Poke & assemble

Use the handle end of a wooden spoon to evenly poke holes all over the cake. about 1-2” apart.

In a bowl, combine the pudding mix, eggnog, and nutmeg. Stir well and then pour this mixture over the cake, filling the holes, spreading it evenly over the top of the cake. Then spread the Cool Whip on top of the pudding layer.

Place the cake in the fridge overnight, or for at least 5-6 hours, to chill. Sprinkle a little bit of nutmeg on top just before serving.

Slice, serve, and enjoy!

HOW LONG IS POKE CAKE GOOD FOR?

This poke cake can last up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. I prefer to make the poke cake at least one day before serving so that the pudding has some time to soak in!

WHEN SHOULD YOU POKE A POKE CAKE?

You should aim to poke the cake after it has cooled enough that if you touched the pan with your hands it wouldn’t hurt. While the cake may be warm for a few hours after baking, about 1-2 hours after being pulled from the oven is fine for continuing with the poking and decorating.

Can any cake mix be used for making a poke cake?

While most cake mixes work well for poke cakes, white cake mix complements the eggnog flavor best. Chocolate or spiced cake mixes can also be used for a different twist, but they may alter the flavor profile.

What alternatives can be utilized for topping a poke cake?

Several alternatives to Cool Whip can be used, including homemade whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or even Greek yogurt. Each option will offer a unique texture and flavor, allowing for variation in presentation and taste.

See Homemade Whipped Cream recipes here.

How do you prevent a poke cake from becoming too soggy?

To prevent sogginess, avoid adding too much liquid to the poke cake. It’s essential to wait for the cake to cool before pouring in the filling, and consider using less liquid if the cake is extremely moist.

Try more of our favorite poke cake recipes here:

• OREO POKE CAKE
• CHOCOLATE CARAMEL PEANUT BUTTER POKE CAKE
• COCOA PUFFS PUDDING POKE CAKE
• CHERRY LIMEADE POKE CAKE
• STRAWBERRIES & CREAM POKE CAKE
• CHRISTMAS JELLO POKE CAKE
• RASPBERRY JELLO POKE CAKE
• BUTTERSCOTCH POKE CAKE
• MINT CHOCOLATE POKE CAKE
• PEPPERMINT OREO POKE CAKE
• EASTER POKE CAKE
• LEMON POKE CAKE RECIPE
• FRUITY PEBBLES POKE CAKE
• PUMPKIN POKE CAKE
• PEACHES AND CREAM POKE CAKE
• S’MORES POKE CAKE
• PINA COLADA POKE CAKE
• KENTUCKY BUTTER POKE CAKE
• BOSTON CREAM PIE POKE CAKE

Eggnog Poke Cake made with a white cake mix, eggnog, vanilla pudding, and cool whip. Delicious moist cake recipe perfect for the holidays!