Eggnog Poke Cake

Every holiday season, our kitchen transforms into a magical place filled with the scent of spices and sweet treats. One of my all-time favorites to whip up is this Eggnog Poke Cake. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; it was a whirlwind of laughter, chaos, and a few flour fights, but the moment that cake hit the table, everyone was all smiles. The way it captures the essence of eggnog in a moist, fluffy cake is simply delightful, and it has become a staple in our holiday traditions.

This Eggnog Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of togetherness. Perfect for festive gatherings, it’s a showstopper that brings everyone around the table, sharing stories and stealing bites. Whether it’s a cozy Christmas dinner or a New Year’s celebration, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser, making it a memorable addition to any holiday spread.

Why You’ll Love "Eggnog Poke Cake"

• Quick and easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients.
• Perfectly festive for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
• Moist and flavorful, thanks to the eggnog and pudding combination.
• Family-friendly dessert that everyone will enjoy, from kids to grandparents.
• Can be made a day in advance, saving you time on the big day.
• Freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy it later if you manage to have leftovers!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (15.25 ounce) box of vanilla cake mix
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 cups eggnog, divided (use your favorite brand for the best flavor)
• ⅓ cup canola or vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil for a richer taste)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature for better mixing)
• 2 (3.4 ounce) boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 (8 ounce) tub of whipped topping, thawed (for a lighter option, consider using homemade whipped cream)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking our delightful cake.

Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, 1 cup of eggnog, canola oil, and the eggs.
2. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want a nice smooth batter – don’t worry if it’s a little thicker than you expected; that’s perfectly fine!

Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, though; ovens can be sneaky!

Poke Holes in the Cake

1. Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Grab a fork and gently poke holes all over the top of the cake. This is where all that delicious pudding will seep in, making it super moist!

Make the Pudding Mixture

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the two boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix with the remaining 3 cups of eggnog until smooth. The mixture should thicken up nicely.

Pour Pudding Over the Cake

1. Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the cake, making sure to fill all those little holes. It’s okay if some of it spills over the sides; we want all that flavor!

Add Whipped Topping

1. Now, grab your thawed whipped topping and spread it evenly over the pudding layer. It should look fluffy and inviting!

Chill the Cake

1. Finally, cover the cake with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and makes it extra refreshing!

Variations

• Swap out eggnog for spiced apple cider for a non-traditional twist.
• Add a splash of rum extract to the batter for a boozy kick.
• Use a chocolate cake mix instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free blend.
• Top with crushed gingersnap cookies for added texture and flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve the Eggnog Poke Cake chilled for the best flavor. Cut it into squares and consider garnishing each slice with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a few festive sprigs of mint. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa!

Storage

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying again!

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, try using a flavored eggnog, like pumpkin spice or vanilla bean.
• Consider adding mini chocolate chips to the pudding mixture for a chocolatey surprise.
• If you have a nut allergy, ensure the whipped topping is nut-free.
• For a lighter version, use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping.
• Feel free to decorate with festive sprinkles or holiday-themed decorations for an extra touch!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Eggnog Poke Cake?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze Eggnog Poke Cake! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.

How can I substitute the eggnog?

If you don’t have eggnog on hand, you can substitute it with a mix of half milk and half heavy cream, adding a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon for that classic flavor. Alternatively, you could use a non-dairy milk with the same spices to keep the festive spirit alive.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this cake dairy-free! Use a dairy-free eggnog or a homemade substitute of almond milk or oat milk mixed with a bit of vanilla extract and spices. For the whipped topping, look for a dairy-free whipped cream alternative available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my friends! This Eggnog Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it's a way to create lasting memories during the holiday season. I encourage you to give it a try and watch as your loved ones gather around, eager for a slice of this festive delight. Remember, cooking should be fun and filled with joy, just like the holidays themselves. So don’t worry if things get a little messy; that’s all part of the experience. I can’t wait for you to make this cake and share your own stories around the table. Happy baking!

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