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White Russian Poke Cake Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 101 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

The White Russian Poke Cake is a decadent dessert inspired by the classic cocktail, combining a moist yellow cake infused with strong brewed coffee and a rich Kahlua glaze. Finished with a light whipped topping, this boozy treat offers a perfect balance of sweetness and coffee flavor, ideal for special occasions or anytime you crave a luxurious coffee-flavored dessert.

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

Optional Garnishes

  • Chocolate shavings
  • Crushed nuts
  • Coffee beans

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the yellow cake batter according to the package instructions and pour it evenly into the prepared pan.
  2. Bake Cake: Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven while still warm.
  3. Poke Holes: Using a fork or skewer, poke holes about 1 inch apart evenly over the entire surface of the warm cake to allow the glaze to soak in thoroughly.
  4. Add Coffee Glaze: Slowly pour 1 cup of strong brewed coffee over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes to impart rich coffee flavor.
  5. Prepare Kahlua Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup Kahlua, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly, then simmer for 1 minute to create a sticky, aromatic glaze.
  6. Apply Kahlua Glaze: Immediately pour the hot Kahlua mixture evenly over the cake, filling the holes and coating the surface for maximum flavor infusion.
  7. 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 glaze set.
  8. Frost the Cake: Just before serving, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake to add a light, creamy contrast.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or coffee beans. Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Use freshly brewed strong coffee to achieve a deeper, more robust flavor profile.
  • For even absorbing, poke holes about 1 inch apart across the cake’s surface.
  • Increase Kahlua quantity slightly if a stronger alcohol flavor is desired, but be cautious not to overpower the cake.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Kahlua with coffee extract or extra brewed coffee.
  • Chilling the cake overnight enhances the melding of flavors for a richer taste experience.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: White Russian Poke Cake, coffee cake, Kahlua cake, boozy dessert, poke cake, coffee glaze dessert, whipped topping cake

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Find it online: https://bitesbyolivia.com/white-russian-poke-cake-recipe/