White Russian Poke Cake

Published on: December 10, 2025

Delicious White Russian Poke Cake topped with cream and chocolate sprinkles

White Russian Poke Cake is a delectable creation that marries the rich flavors of coffee, Kahlua, and vodka into a moist cake that’s simply irresistible. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the tender cake soaked in a luscious coffee-laden syrup to the light, fluffy whipped cream topping. The inviting aroma of coffee mingles with the sweetness of cake, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings. This easy-to-make dessert is special not just for its flavors but also its adaptability for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive celebrations.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll want to whip up this White Russian Poke Cake for any festive occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy holiday get-together. Its convenience makes it a go-to dessert, as you can prepare it ahead of time and serve it chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The delightful combination of coffee and rich cream creates a unique flavor profile that stands out, while its versatility ensures it can complement a variety of other dishes. This cake is a perfect way to showcase your culinary flair without spending hours in the kitchen.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

This recipe features vibrant, seasonal ingredients like freshly brewed coffee, which brings a deep, aromatic richness, and the creamy, dreamy texture of heavy cream. The sight of a beautifully baked vanilla cake topped with fluffy whipped cream and shimmering chocolate shavings is a treat for the eyes as much as the palate. Using locally sourced ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also promotes sustainability and supports local farmers. These fresh components come together to create a dessert that tastes as good as it looks and feels.

What You’ll Need

To make this delicious White Russian Poke Cake, gather the following ingredients:

1 box of vanilla cake mix
1 cup of brewed coffee, cooled
1/2 cup of Kahlua
1/2 cup of vodka
1 cup of heavy cream
1/4 cup of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

These pantry essentials create a symphony of flavors and textures that envelop the senses. If you’re looking for substitutions, consider using a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version or swapping heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven and prepare the vanilla cake mix according to package instructions. Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch pan and bake until golden brown. Allow the cake to cool—inhaling the sweet aroma should be the most rewarding part of this step.

2. Mix the Ingredients

While the cake cools, combine brewed coffee, Kahlua, and vodka in a mixing bowl. This fragrant mixture will soak into the cake later, enhancing its flavor.

3. Poke Holes

Once the cake has fully cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. This step is vital, as it allows the coffee mixture to seep in and infuse the cake with moisture.

4. Pour the Coffee Mixture

Pour the coffee mixture evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it soaks in thoroughly. Watch as the cake absorbs the liquid, becoming even more indulgent.

5. Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. The cream should be thick, light, and airy, creating a beautiful topping.

6. Spread the Whipped Cream

Carefully spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake. This luscious layer adds both sweetness and a decadent finish.

7. Garnish

Top with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for that perfect visual appeal. This last touch elevates the dish both aesthetically and in flavor.

8. Chill and Serve

Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld. When you finally cut into it, the contrast of textures and flavors will be incredible.

Essential Tools

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

Mixing bowls (various sizes for efficiency)
Electric mixer or whisk (for whipping cream)
9×13 inch baking pan (for the cake)
Fork (for poking holes in the cake)
Spatula (for spreading the cream)

Make sure to have these essentials on hand to streamline the process and ensure every step goes smoothly.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

You can prepare this White Russian Poke Cake a day in advance, making it a perfect choice for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. If you want to extend its life, consider freezing individual slices. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying. For best results, consume within 3-5 days.

Perfect Pairings

This delightful dessert pairs beautifully with a variety of drinks, such as coffee for an extra caffeine boost, or dessert wines that complement its sweetness. Serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a rich espresso for a decadent experience. Visually, you can present the cake on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh mint for an added pop of color.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Cake Too Dry: If your cake comes out dry, ensure you’re not overbaking it. Check for doneness a few minutes earlier than recommended.
Syrup Not Soaking In: If the syrup isn’t soaking well, try poking more holes next time or letting it sit longer before adding the whipped cream topping.
Whipped Cream Deflates: Make sure your heavy cream is cold before whipping, and don’t overbeat, as this can turn it into butter.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Always use fresh, brewed coffee for maximum flavor.
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of espresso in the coffee mix.
Chill the cake overnight for the best flavor infusion; overnight refrigeration allows the cake to soak up the syrup fully.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Mocha Version: Add cocoa powder to the cake mix for a chocolate twist, or incorporate chocolate liqueur for additional richness.
Nutty Variation: Sprinkle crushed nuts on top of the whipped cream for an added crunch and flavor.
Seasonal Adjustments: Consider using seasonal flavors like spice liqueurs in the cooler months, such as cinnamon, for a festive spin.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

This recipe can be adjusted for various diets:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping.
Alcohol-Free: Replace Kahlua and vodka with extra coffee or coffee-flavored syrup for those avoiding alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! The cake tastes even better after sitting overnight, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

2. Is there a non-alcoholic version of this cake?

Yes, you can substitute Kahlua and vodka with coffee syrup or additional brewed coffee for a delicious, non-alcoholic dessert.

3. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze slices for longer storage.

4. Can I substitute the cake mix for a homemade version?

Yes! You can use your favorite homemade vanilla cake recipe instead of a box mix.

5. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with chocolate, lemon, or any flavor profile that pleases your palate.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

In summary, White Russian Poke Cake is a delightfully easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and lovely textures will impress everyone at your table. Make sure to share your creations on social media and tag us with your delicious results! For more scrumptious recipes, check out our dessert category here.