This Irish Cream Poke Cake is a delightful fusion of creamy, boozy, and chocolatey goodness. The combination of the rich Irish cream soaking into the soft cake, topped with a fluffy whipped cream layer and a sprinkling of chocolate chips, makes it a showstopper dessert.
The cake itself is wonderfully moist, and each bite is a sweet, indulgent treat. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, a birthday, or simply craving something decadent, this dessert will be sure to impress. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, with just enough richness to make it feel extra special.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 box of yellow cake mix
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1 (3.4-ounce) box of instant vanilla pudding mix
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1 cup whole milk
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1 cup Irish cream liqueur
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1/2 cup butter, melted
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1 (8-ounce) container of whipped topping
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1/2 cup chocolate chips, for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions, but use 1 cup of milk instead of water. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes.
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While the cake is cooling, prepare the poke filling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and 1 cup of whole milk until it thickens.
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Once the cake is cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
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Slowly pour the Irish cream liqueur over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Then, pour the pudding mixture evenly over the top, making sure it gets into all the holes.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the pudding layer.
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Garnish with chocolate chips and refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Why Choose Irish Cream in Your Cake?
Irish cream liqueur is known for its smooth, velvety texture and its balance of cream and whiskey flavors. When added to a cake, it imparts a subtle richness and complexity that enhances the overall flavor profile. The Irish cream soaks into the cake, making each bite moist and flavorful. This liqueur also pairs perfectly with chocolate and whipped cream, making it an ideal addition to a poke cake where the flavors meld together seamlessly.
For those who have never tried Irish cream liqueur in a dessert, this cake offers the perfect introduction. It’s not an overpowering flavor, but rather a subtle undertone that adds depth to the cake. The combination of whiskey and cream balances the sweetness of the cake and pudding, creating a sophisticated dessert that isn’t overly sugary. The Irish cream liqueur not only adds a unique flavor, but also creates a moist texture that elevates the cake to another level.
Poke Cakes: A Tradition Reimagined
Poke cakes have been a staple in American households for decades. The concept is simple yet effective: poke holes in a freshly baked cake and allow a filling, whether it be pudding, Jell-O, or a syrupy mixture, to soak into the holes. The result is a moist, flavorful cake that is far from the ordinary. Poke cakes are versatile and allow for creativity in flavors, fillings, and toppings.
The Irish Cream Poke Cake takes the traditional poke cake to new heights by incorporating a rich Irish cream liqueur as part of the filling. This twist not only adds flavor but creates a more decadent dessert that can be enjoyed by adults at any celebration. The addition of pudding and whipped cream on top provides a smooth and creamy contrast to the spongy cake. It’s a dessert that delivers on all levels – flavor, texture, and presentation.
Making Your Irish Cream Poke Cake Perfect Every Time
While the Irish Cream Poke Cake is simple to prepare, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the perfect result every time. First, make sure to bake your cake just until it is done, but avoid overbaking. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, which can interfere with the moist texture that the poke method aims to create. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
When you poke holes in the cake, be gentle but thorough. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar utensil to make evenly spaced holes that are deep enough to allow the Irish cream and pudding filling to soak in. Be careful not to puncture the bottom of the cake, as this can cause the filling to spill out when you pour it over the cake.
For the filling, make sure to prepare the pudding mixture properly so that it thickens to the right consistency. If the pudding is too runny, it won’t soak into the cake effectively. Additionally, the whipped cream topping should be made just before serving to ensure it’s light and fluffy. It’s best to use heavy cream and whip it yourself, as store-bought whipped toppings tend to deflate quickly and lack the same texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Your Irish Cream Poke Cake
While the Irish Cream Poke Cake is perfect on its own, you can elevate the dessert with a few creative touches. Consider garnishing the cake with a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an added chocolatey kick. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries pair wonderfully with the creamy, rich flavor of the Irish cream. You could also drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top for a sweet contrast to the creamy filling.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding crushed nuts such as pistachios or almonds as a topping. The crunchiness will offer a satisfying texture contrast to the smooth cake and creamy filling. You could also serve the cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of hot fudge sauce to take it to the next level.
Why This Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or a casual get-together with friends, the Irish Cream Poke Cake is sure to impress. It’s a versatile dessert that works for various occasions, from St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to birthdays and even as an after-dinner treat. The flavor is sophisticated enough for more formal events, yet approachable enough for casual gatherings. Its ability to be made ahead of time also makes it a practical choice for busy hosts who want a delicious dessert without the last-minute prep work.
Moreover, this cake appeals to both adults and children alike. While the Irish cream adds a rich and indulgent flavor for grown-ups, the overall taste remains sweet and comforting enough for kids to enjoy. The pudding and whipped cream topping provide a familiar taste that’s universally loved, while the Irish cream infusion adds a unique twist for those with a more refined palate.
A Versatile Dessert for All Seasons
One of the greatest aspects of the Irish Cream Poke Cake is that it can be enjoyed year-round. During the colder months, the rich Irish cream and decadent layers are comforting and warming. However, the lightness of the whipped cream topping makes it refreshing enough for warmer months as well. This cake can be adapted for seasonal occasions – perhaps adding a few mint leaves for a festive St. Patrick’s Day twist or incorporating seasonal fruits like apples or pears for a fall-inspired version.
Conclusion: A Dessert Worth Savoring
The Irish Cream Poke Cake is a fantastic example of how a simple dessert can be transformed into something extraordinary with just a few key ingredients. The marriage of moist cake, creamy Irish cream filling, and fluffy whipped cream is a treat that delights the senses. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this poke cake offers a memorable dessert experience. The versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious flavor make it a perfect addition to any dessert table. Next time you need a show-stopping dessert, give this Irish Cream Poke Cake a try – it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!