Okay, friends, gather ’round because I have a confession: I’m obsessed with Eggnog. Like, *really* obsessed. And while I love a good mug of the creamy, spiced goodness, I wanted to find a way to enjoy those festive flavors in cake form. Think of this Eggnog Poke Cake as the cooler, more laid-back cousin of a traditional tres leches cake, but with that unmistakable holiday cheer. Seriously, every bite is like a warm hug on a cold day, and it’s become a staple at our family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

What is Eggnog Poke Cake?

Imagine a tender, moist vanilla cake that’s been lovingly poked full of holes (hence the name!). Now, those holes aren’t just for show; they’re channels for a rich, creamy eggnog bath that soaks into every crumb. It’s essentially a sponge cake that gets infused with holiday magic. Think of it as a Christmas-ified version of a tres leches cake, but with a warming spice kick. The magic is in the soaking! It’s unbelievably simple, but the result is a flavor explosion. This recipe is a real winner during the holiday season.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Let me tell you, this cake has everything going for it! What I love most about this Eggnog Poke Cake is how incredibly flavorful it is. The eggnog infuses the cake with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, creating a symphony of holiday tastes. And don’t even get me started on the texture – it’s unbelievably moist and tender.

It’s also ridiculously easy to make. I always get intimidated by fancy desserts, but this one is foolproof. The poke cake method is genius – no layering, no frosting stress. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights when you need a show-stopping dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Another amazing thing is that it’s surprisingly budget-friendly! You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, and eggnog is readily available this time of year. Plus, you can customize it to your liking. I’ve tried different extracts, liquors, and toppings, and they all turn out delicious.

And the best part? This cake is a crowd-pleaser! My kids ask for it all the time, and it’s always a hit at parties. It’s the perfect dessert to bring to a holiday gathering, and it’s guaranteed to impress. I think it’s more approachable than a super fussy Yule Log, and it scratches that same festive itch. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) are amazing the next day.

How do I make Eggnog Poke Cake?

Quick Overview

Making this Eggnog Poke Cake is easier than wrapping presents (and probably less stressful, too!). You’ll start by baking a simple vanilla cake, poking holes all over it, and then drenching it in a luscious eggnog mixture. Finally, top it off with a creamy glaze and a sprinkle of nutmeg. The magic is in letting the eggnog soak in and transform the cake into a moist, flavorful masterpiece. It’s all about simple steps with big payoff. Don’t let the “poke” part scare you; it’s actually the funnest part!

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
I usually go with Duncan Hines, but any brand will do! If you’re feeling ambitious, you can definitely make a cake from scratch, but honestly, the boxed cake is the best. What makes this recipe so easy?
* 1 cup Eggnog: This is the star of the show! If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own eggnog. Just make sure it’s nice and creamy.
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil: This keeps the cake moist and tender.
* 3 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together.

For the Filling:
* 3 cups Eggnog: Yes, more eggnog! What soaks into a cake makes it moist and flavorful. I’ve tested this with both regular and light eggnog, and both work great. If you want an extra boozy kick, you can add a splash of rum or bourbon to the eggnog.

For the Glaze:
* 4 cups Powdered Sugar: This creates a sweet, creamy glaze that perfectly complements the spiced eggnog flavor. Make sure to sift it to avoid lumps!
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, melted: This adds richness and flavor to the glaze. I always use unsalted butter so I can control the amount of salt in the glaze.
* 1/4 cup Eggnog: This thins out the glaze and adds even more egg flavor. If you want a boozy glaze, you can add rum or bourbon.
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: This enhances the overall flavor of the glaze.
* Ground Nutmeg, for garnish: What is the best way to add some holiday spice to your cake?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use baking spray with flour already in it – makes life so much easier. Do you want your cake to stick to the pan?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggnog, vegetable oil, and eggs. Set aside. Beat with electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, or until well combined. Don’t overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Just mix until everything is nicely incorporated.

Step 3: Bake

What is the best way to spread the batter evenly in a pan? Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it! If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.

Step 4: Cool & Poke

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch thick. The more holes, the more eggnog it will absorb.

Step 5: Soak with Eggnog

Slowly pour the remaining 3 cups of eggnog over the cake, making sure to saturate all of the holes. Is there any liquid in the cake? Let the cake cool completely, about 2 hours, or until the eggnog is fully absorbed. I sometimes pop it in the fridge to speed up the process.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, eggnog, and vanilla extract until well combined. Set aside. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more eggnog. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. The consistency should be easily pourable but not too runny.

Step 7: Glaze & Garnish

Sprinkle with ground nutmeg and pour over cooled cake.

Step 8: Chill & Serve

Is it necessary to refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set? Cut into squares and enjoy! Is it safe to make this cake ahead of time?

What is the best way to serve it?

Eggnog Poke Cake is a star all on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with dozens of other desserts. What are some other treats and drinks?For Breakfast:A slice of this cake goes perfectly with a cup of coffee or latte. The spiced eggnog flavor complements the coffee perfectly. I like to add a dollop of whipped cream and cinnamon for an extra special morning.For Brunch:Serve this cake alongside a fruit platter and marmalade bar for an festive brunch spread. The sweetness of the cake balances out the tartness of fruit and the bubbly mimosas. What are some good side dishes to serve with bacon or sausage?As Dessert:What is the perfect end to a holiday meal? Serve with vanilla Ice Cream or whipped cream. What are some good ways to serve caramel sauce or chocolate syrup? What are some good pairings for a chilled dessert wine?For Cozy Snacks:Sometimes, you just need a little something to get you through the afternoon. What are some good ways to make a delicious cake? I love to curl up with a slice of toast or iced tea. What are some good recipes for cookie exchanges?

How do I make Eggnog Poke Cake?

How do I make Eggnog Poke Cake? What are some of the Best Tips and tricks that I have learned over the years?Eggnog qualityWhat is the best eggnog flavor? I’ve found that store-bought eggnog can vary greatly in quality, so it’s worth splurging on a good brand. Is it better to make your own brand? The better eggnog, the better the cake!What is the PokeDon’t be afraid to poke holes in your cake! The more holes, the more eggnog the cake will absorb, resulting in a moister and more flavorful cake. I like to use the handle of a wooden spoon to create evenly spaced holes.Soaking Time:If you want to serve a cake with eggnog, pour it over it. How do you prevent a cake from becoming soggy? Is it safe to bake a cake for 2 hours? The longer it soaks, the more flavorful it will be. I usually leave it in the fridge overnight for maximum flavor.Glaze Consistency: Adjust the amount of eggnog in the glaze to achieve your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less eggnog. If you prefer a thinner glaze, use more eggnog. You can also add a little bit of cornstarch to the glaze to thicken it up.

Ingredient Swaps: If you’re not a fan of eggnog, you can substitute it with milk or cream. You can also add other flavorings to the cake, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or rum extract. Get creative and experiment with different flavors!

Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake and adjust the baking time as needed. A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean when it’s done. I always check mine a few minutes before the recommended baking time just to be safe.

Glaze Variations: If you want to get really fancy, you can add a touch of rum or bourbon to the glaze. You can also top the cake with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or candied ginger. The possibilities are endless!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any leftover Eggnog Poke Cake (which is rare in my house!), here are some tips for storing and reheating it:

Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. However, I prefer to store it in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Refrigerator Storage: You can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Again, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cold temperature will help to keep the cake moist and prevent it from spoiling.

Freezer Instructions: If you want to store the cake for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then wrap it again in aluminum foil. You can also place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on freezing the cake, I recommend glazing it after it has thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming cracked or soggy.

Quality Indicators: To tell if the cake has gone bad, look for signs of mold or discoloration. You can also smell it to see if it has a sour or rancid odor. If you notice any of these signs, discard the cake immediately. Nobody wants a cake-related illness over the holidays!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my all-time favorite Eggnog Poke Cake recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. The moist, flavorful cake, the creamy eggnog soak, and the sweet glaze combine to create a truly unforgettable dessert.

If you’re looking for other delicious holiday recipes, be sure to check out my other blog posts. And if you try this Eggnog Poke Cake, please let me know how it turns out! I love hearing from you guys. Happy baking, and happy holidays!