Eggnog Poke Cake Recipe for a Creamy Holiday Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Poke Cake

As the holiday season rolls around, nothing beats a simple yet indulgent treat like the eggnog poke cake. This creamy holiday dessert combines the rich flavors of eggnog with a moist cake base, making it a favorite among home cooks and baking enthusiasts alike. Its ease of preparation means you can whip it up quickly, even on busy days, while still delivering that festive punch that everyone craves.

Beyond its taste, this poke cake offers some flexibility for health-conscious folks. You can tweak the recipe with low-fat dairy options or reduced sugar to fit various wellness goals, keeping it as a balanced choice for your holiday table. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, the eggnog poke cake’s distinctive flavor and versatility make it a go-to for creating memorable moments.

One reason this recipe stands out is its adaptability to different diets. For instance, you might swap ingredients for vegan or gluten-free versions, ensuring that friends and family with specific needs can still dive in. Overall, it’s not just a dessert; it’s a joyful addition to your holiday traditions that keeps things light and fun.

Essential Ingredients for Eggnog Poke Cake

To make this holiday eggnog poke cake recipe, you’ll need a specific set of ingredients that bring out its creamy and festive essence. Below is a comprehensive list of all the items required, based on the precise measurements provided. This ensures your baking goes smoothly and results in that perfect, moist texture.

• 18.3-ounce box of vanilla cake mix
• 2/3 cup eggnog
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3.4-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix (for the filling)
• 2 cups of eggnog (for the filling)
• 1/4 cup spiced rum (or a non-alcoholic substitute such as more eggnog combined with 1/2 teaspoon rum extract for the filling)
• 8-ounce tub of whipped topping (for topping)
• A sprinkle of nutmeg (for garnish)
• Optionally, red and green sprinkles or caramel sauce (for additional garnish)

This structured list covers everything you need for the cake, filling, and garnishes. Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving the creamy dessert’s signature flavor and texture, so measure them accurately for the best results.

How to Prepare the Perfect Eggnog Poke Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this creamy eggnog poke cake is straightforward and fun, perfect for busy parents or students looking for a quick holiday dessert. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9 by 13-inch pan to ensure easy removal later. This step sets the stage for a smooth baking process that results in a tender, flavorful cake.

Next, mix the batter using the 18.3-ounce box of vanilla cake mix, 2/3 cup eggnog, 1/2 cup water, 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter), 3 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Combine these in a bowl until smooth, then pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake it for 26-28 minutes, checking with a toothpick to make sure it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs for that ideal moistness.

Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before poking holes all over it to allow for moisture absorption. Prepare the filling by whisking one 3.4-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of eggnog and 1/4 cup spiced rum or its substitute. Pour this mixture over the holes, then cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld.

Before serving, spread an 8-ounce tub of whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg, plus optional red and green sprinkles or caramel sauce for extra flair. This eggnog poke cake recipe not only tastes amazing but also incorporates tips like using room-temperature eggnog and eggs for better mixing. For more ideas on similar desserts, check out our chocolate peanut butter poke cake for a fun variation.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Eggnog Poke Cake

Making this holiday eggnog poke cake accessible to everyone is easy with a few smart swaps. For those avoiding animal products, replace traditional eggs with flax or chia eggs to keep things vegan without losing that creamy texture. You can also use plant-based eggnog made from almond or soy milk to maintain the classic flavor while catering to dairy-free diets.

If gluten is a concern, swap the vanilla cake mix for a gluten-free version to ensure the whole family enjoys this creamy dessert. For a lower-calorie option, try sugar substitutes and low-fat or plant-based toppings to cut down on sweetness and fat. These changes let you adapt the recipe for busy professionals or diet-conscious individuals seamlessly.

Enhancing the flavor profile is another fun aspect; add spices like cinnamon or allspice for a twist that suits food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a senior looking for lighter fare or newlyweds experimenting in the kitchen, these substitutions make the eggnog poke cake a versatile choice. Remember, small tweaks can lead to big differences in how this poke cake fits into your lifestyle.

Mastering Eggnog Poke Cake: Advanced Tips and Variations

To take your eggnog poke cake to the next level, focus on pro cooking techniques like using room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better texture. Always perform the toothpick test to check for doneness, and don’t forget to poke those holes properly so the pudding filling absorbs evenly. For more inspiration, explore our pineapple sunshine cake recipe, which offers similar moist and flavorful results.

Flavor variations can add excitement; try adding a splash of rum for an adult version or mix in orange zest and cloves for a fresh holiday twist. Presentation is key too serve slices with whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg on festive plates to impress your guests. If you’re planning ahead, make the cake a day early to let flavors blend, and store it covered in the fridge.

Other ideas include using low-calorie sweeteners for a lighter option or experimenting with gluten-free mixes for broader appeal. This approach not only enhances the creamy eggnog poke cake but also makes it adaptable for travelers or baking enthusiasts on the go. With these tips, your holiday dessert will stand out every time.

How to Store Eggnog Poke Cake: Best Practices

Proper storage is essential to keep your eggnog poke cake fresh and delicious. Place it in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container, and it will stay good for up to three days as recommended. This method helps maintain the cake’s moist texture without letting it get soggy.

If you need to keep it longer, freezing isn’t ideal due to potential texture changes, but if you must, wrap it well and thaw in the fridge. For meal prep, portion the cake into servings to make it easy for working professionals or busy parents. Following these steps ensures your creamy holiday dessert remains a joy to eat.

Reheating can be done gently in the microwave for a few seconds if you want to soften it up. Always check for freshness before serving to keep things safe and tasty. With a little care, this poke cake stays as inviting as when it was first made.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Eggnog Poke Cake

Eggnog Poke Cake

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 4 hours 43 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Contains dairy and eggs

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Description

🎄 Eggnog Poke Cake Recipe is a creamy and festive dessert that captures the warm flavors of the holiday season.
🍰 This easy-to-make cake combines spiced eggnog with moist vanilla cake and rich pudding, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

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Ingredients

– 18.3-ounce box of vanilla cake mix

– 2/3 cup eggnog

– 1/2 cup water

– 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

– 3 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 3.4-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix for the filling

– 2 cups of eggnog for the filling

– 1/4 cup spiced rum (or a non-alcoholic substitute such as more eggnog combined with 1/2 teaspoon rum extract) for the filling

– 8-ounce tub of whipped topping for topping

– A sprinkle of nutmeg for garnish

– Optionally, red and green sprinkles or caramel sauce for additional garnish

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Instructions

1-Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9 by 13-inch pan to ensure easy removal later. This step sets the stage for a smooth baking process that results in a tender, flavorful cake.

2-Next, mix the batter using the 18.3-ounce box of vanilla cake mix, 2/3 cup eggnog, 1/2 cup water, 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter), 3 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Combine these in a bowl until smooth, then pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake it for 26-28 minutes, checking with a toothpick to make sure it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs for that ideal moistness.

3-Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before poking holes all over it to allow for moisture absorption. Prepare the filling by whisking one 3.4-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix with 2 cups of eggnog and 1/4 cup spiced rum or its substitute. Pour this mixture over the holes, then cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld.

4-Before serving, spread an 8-ounce tub of whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg, plus optional red and green sprinkles or caramel sauce for extra flair.

Notes

🎂 Ensure eggnog and eggs are at room temperature before mixing for best batter consistency.
🍴 Poke holes thoroughly to allow pudding to soak evenly for moist texture.
❄️ Store leftovers refrigerated for up to three days; avoid freezing to maintain texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking, Poking, Refrigerating
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 217 calories
• Sugar: 20.9 grams
• Sodium: 225.2 mg
• Fat: 8.4 grams
• Saturated Fat: 3.2 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 31.5 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Protein: 3.8 grams
• Cholesterol: 53.2 mg

Keywords: eggnog poke cake, holiday dessert, creamy christmas cake, festive poke cake