Eggnog Poke Cake

Introduction

This festive Eggnog Poke Cake is the ultimate holiday dessert, combining the rich flavors of classic eggnog with the soft texture of a moist poke cake. The cake is baked to perfection, poked with holes, and drenched with a creamy eggnog filling. Topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, this cake is a crowd-pleaser for holiday parties or cozy family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box yellow or white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, and water)
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Eggnog Filling:

• 1 cup eggnog
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 2 cups whipped topping (or whipped cream)
• Ground nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare and Bake the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions (usually 350°F or 175°C).
   • Prepare the yellow or white cake mix as directed on the box, adding eggs, oil, and water as specified.
   • For added flavor, mix in 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg into the cake batter.
   • Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake according to the package instructions, typically 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Prepare the Eggnog Filling:
   • While the cake bakes, whisk together the eggnog, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth.
3. Poke the Cake:
   • Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
   • Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes all over the cake, making sure to reach the bottom of the pan.
4. Pour the Eggnog Filling:
   • Slowly pour the eggnog mixture over the entire cake, making sure the filling seeps into the holes. Let the cake absorb the mixture for at least 30 minutes, or until fully cooled.
5. Add the Topping:
   • Once the cake has cooled and absorbed the filling, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.
   • For a festive touch, sprinkle with ground nutmeg or cinnamon.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
   • Slice and serve chilled for a perfectly creamy, spiced dessert.

Conclusion

This decadent Eggnog Poke Cake is an easy yet impressive dessert that brings all the cozy flavors of the holiday season to the table. With its moist cake, rich eggnog filling, and creamy topping, this treat will quickly become a favorite at any holiday gathering. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, and don’t forget the sprinkle of nutmeg for that perfect festive finish!