Description
The White Russian Poke Cake is a decadent dessert that blends the flavors of the classic White Russian cocktail into a moist yellow cake. Infused with strong brewed coffee and a boozy Kahlua glaze, this cake is topped with light whipped cream making it a perfect boozy treat for special occasions or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box: eggs, oil, water)
Coffee Glaze
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled slightly
Kahlua Mixture
- 1/2 cup Kahlua or coffee liqueur
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Frosting
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Garnishes
- Chocolate shavings
- Crushed nuts (such as toasted walnuts or pecans)
- Coffee beans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cake Batter: Prepare the yellow cake batter according to the package instructions using the required eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven.
- Poke Holes: While the cake is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes about 1 inch apart all over the cake surface. This allows the glaze to soak in deeply.
- Add Coffee Glaze: Slowly pour the warm brewed coffee evenly over the cake, letting it absorb into the holes to infuse strong coffee flavor.
- Prepare Kahlua Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the Kahlua, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring constantly, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute to create a sticky syrup.
- Pour Kahlua Glaze: Immediately pour the hot Kahlua mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes for maximum flavor.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the cake set firmly.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake just before serving to add a light contrast to the rich layers below.
- Optional Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or coffee beans if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled for best results.
Notes
- Use freshly brewed strong coffee for the deepest flavor.
- Ensure holes are about 1 inch apart for even soaking of the glaze.
- Adjust the amount of Kahlua if you desire a stronger or lighter alcoholic flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Kahlua with coffee extract or more brewed coffee.
- Chilling the cake overnight enhances flavor melding and texture.
- Variations include adding chocolate ganache, almond extract, vanilla pudding swirl, or nut toppings for texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze uncut portions up to 2 months without whipped topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: White Russian Poke Cake, boozy cake, coffee cake, Kahlua dessert, poke cake, whipped topping cake, coffee glaze cake, easy dessert recipe
