What makes a cake a "poke cake"?

A poke cake is named for the holes "poked" into it after baking. These holes allow a liquid filling—such as pudding, jelly, or flavored milk—to soak deeply into the cake layers. This technique adds moisture and additional flavor, making the cake extra rich and tender.

How long can I keep eggnog poke cake in the fridge?

Eggnog poke cake should be stored uncovered or lightly covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 to 4 days. Storing it this way maintains the cake’s texture and flavor while preventing it from becoming soggy or developing off flavors.

Can I freeze eggnog poke cake without ruining its texture?

Freezing eggnog poke cake is not recommended because the moist filling and whipped toppings can separate and become watery after thawing. The freeze-thaw cycle may cause the cake’s texture to become dense and less enjoyable.

What ingredients are typically used in making an eggnog poke cake?

Eggnog poke cake commonly includes a moist yellow or spice cake base, eggnog-flavored pudding or custard for the filling, and whipped cream or buttercream frosting on top. Nutmeg or cinnamon is often added for extra holiday flavor.

How can I make sure my eggnog poke cake stays moist without being soggy?

To keep your eggnog poke cake moist but not soggy, poke evenly sized holes and pour the eggnog or pudding filling slowly to allow even absorption. Chill the cake for a few hours before serving so the flavors meld and the texture firms up nicely.

Eggnog Poke Cake Recipe For A Creamy Holiday Treat

Name: Eggnog Poke Cake
Prep time: 4 h 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 4 h 43 min
Cuisine: American
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

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.

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

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