Eggnog Poke Cake is the ultimate festive dessert that blends the creamy, spiced flavor of traditional eggnog with a moist, fluffy cake. This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings and is sure to impress family and friends. With its rich custard filling, whipped topping, and a dash of cinnamon, this cake captures the essence of the season. Easy to make and a crowd favorite, it brings warmth and joy to every bite.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) of yellow cake mix (or spice cake mix for extra flavor)
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually water, oil, and eggs)
- For the Eggnog Filling:
- 1 can (5.1 oz) of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup milk
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- Optional: Crushed nutmeg or whipped cream for extra decoration
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box (usually mixing the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs). Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Make the Eggnog Filling:
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the eggnog filling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix, eggnog, and milk. Stir until the mixture thickens, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, use a fork or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake, making sure not to go all the way through to the bottom.
- Fill the Cake:
- Pour the eggnog mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let the cake absorb the filling for about 30 minutes to an hour in the fridge.
- Make the Whipped Topping:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake, covering it completely.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the whipped cream topping. Optionally, you can add a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg or even some extra whipped cream.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to chill.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Slice and serve chilled, enjoying the creamy, spiced flavor of this holiday-inspired poke cake. It’s perfect for family gatherings, parties, or any festive occasion!