White Russian Poke Cake

Poke cakes are beloved for their moist texture and creative flavors, offering a fun twist on traditional cakes. By poking holes into a freshly baked cake and pouring in a flavorful liquid, the dessert becomes irresistibly soft and indulgent.

The White Russian Poke Cake takes inspiration from the classic cocktail made with coffee liqueur, vodka, and cream. Imagine a rich chocolate or vanilla cake base infused with Kahlúa and vodka, then topped with whipped cream and cocoa dusting. The result is a dessert that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated.

Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or adult dessert parties, this cake is a showstopper that combines the comfort of poke cakes with the elegance of cocktail-inspired flavors. It’s moist, decadent, and guaranteed to impress guests.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because it fuses the flavors of a cocktail with the classic appeal of poke cake. The combination of coffee liqueur, vodka, and cream creates a luxurious soak that transforms the cake into something indulgent yet approachable.

It’s also easy to prepare. With a simple cake base and a few flavorful additions, you can create a dessert that feels gourmet without requiring advanced baking skills.

Tip: Poking holes ensures the creamy mixture soaks evenly, giving every slice the perfect balance of cake and filling.

This recipe proves that poke cakes can be both playful and elegant, making it ideal for entertaining or treating yourself to something special.

Cultural & Culinary Background

Poke cakes originated in 1970s America, when boxed cake mixes and instant puddings became popular. The technique of poking holes into a cake and pouring in a flavorful liquid was a creative way to enhance texture and taste, quickly becoming a household favorite.

The White Russian cocktail emerged in the 1960s, gaining fame as a smooth blend of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. It became iconic in pop culture, especially after being featured in films like The Big Lebowski.

Modern bakers often fuse cocktails with desserts, creating playful, indulgent recipes that appeal to adventurous eaters. The White Russian Poke Cake is part of this trend, combining the moistness of poke cakes with the bold, creamy flavors of the cocktail.

This fusion reflects today’s culinary creativity, where tradition meets innovation, and desserts become a canvas for flavor experimentation.

Flavor Profile Breakdown

Coffee Liqueur (Kahlúa): Bold, aromatic depth that infuses the cake with warmth.
Vodka: Subtle kick that enhances the cocktail-inspired flavor.
Cream: Smooth, velvety texture that balances richness.
Cake Base (Chocolate or Vanilla): Provides a sturdy, flavorful foundation.

Together, these elements create a dessert that’s indulgent, balanced, and layered with complexity.

Pro Tip: Dust the finished cake with cocoa powder for enhanced flavor and elegant presentation.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Bake Cake Base Prepare a chocolate or vanilla cake using a boxed mix or homemade recipe. Bake until done and allow to cool slightly.

Step 2: Poke Holes While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke evenly spaced holes across the surface.

Step 3: Prepare Soak Mixture In a bowl, combine 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup Kahlúa, and 2–3 tbsp vodka. Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Pour Mixture Slowly pour the mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.

Step 5: Chill Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours to allow flavors to meld and the cake to set.

Step 6: Top & Serve Spread whipped cream over the chilled cake. Dust with cocoa powder or garnish with chocolate shavings. Slice and serve cold.

Tip: Use a wooden spoon handle for evenly sized holes to maximize soak distribution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Poking Deep Enough: Flavors won’t penetrate properly. Ensure holes reach halfway into the cake.
Overpouring Liquid: Too much soak mixture makes the cake soggy. Pour gradually.
Skipping Chill Time: Flavors won’t set, and texture will be uneven. Always chill before serving.
Using Low-Quality Liqueur: Flat taste results. Choose a good coffee liqueur for bold flavor.

Tip: Always taste the soak mixture before pouring—it should be balanced, rich, and slightly boozy.