The White Russian Poke Cake is a modern and indulgent dessert that turns a classic poke cake into something inspired by the famous White Russian cocktail. This cake combines coffee-flavored goodness with a rich boozy soak and a creamy whipped topping for a vibrant dessert perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or special occasions.
Ingredients — What You Need
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder (or ½ cup cooled strong brewed coffee)
For the Soak:
- ⅓ cup coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
- ¼ cup vodka
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the Whipped Topping:
- 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
- Chocolate curls, cocoa powder, or coffee beans for decoration
These ingredients together create a dessert that’s coffee-rich, moist, and elegantly boozy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare and Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, oil, and instant espresso powder (or brewed coffee).
- Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until the batter is smooth and fully blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 28–33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes — it should still be warm.
2. Create the Poke Holes
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon, a skewer, or similar tool.
- Poke 20–25 holes evenly over the surface of the warm cake.
- Make sure holes go almost to the bottom so the soak will penetrate deeply.
3. Make the Alcoholic Soak
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the coffee liqueur, vodka, and sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.
- Slowly pour this mixture over the warm cake, ensuring the liquid seeps into each hole.
- Use a spoon to help guide the liquid into any tight spots.
- Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to absorb the liquid.
4. Chill the Cake
- Place the soaked cake in the refrigerator.
- Chill for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Chilling allows the cake to set and makes every bite moist and rich.
5. Prepare the Whipped Topping
- Just before serving, pour the cold heavy whipping cream into a chilled bowl.
- Add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract.
- Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
- Smooth it out or make swirls for a pretty finish.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Add optional garnishes like chocolate curls, a light dusting of cocoa powder, or a few coffee beans for an elegant look.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
- Store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Serving and Tips
- Chill time – The longer the cake sits in the fridge after soaking, the more the flavors develop.
- Alcohol note – Because alcohol is added after baking, most of it remains in the cake. This dessert is best for adults and should be served responsibly.
- Custom variations – You can make a non-alcoholic version by substituting coffee syrup and more milk, or add chocolate chips to the batter for a richer taste.
Final Thoughts
The White Russian Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that seamlessly blends the fun of a poke cake with the bold flavors of a favorite adult cocktail. The soak ensures each bite is moist and flavorful, while the whipped topping adds rich, airy contrast. This dessert is perfect if you love coffee, enjoy creative twists on cake classics, and want a dessert that feels both cozy and luxurious