Irish Cream Poke Cake Recipe 2025

Irish Cream Poke Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that never fails to impress. It combines the rich flavors of chocolate cake with the smooth, creamy taste of Irish cream liqueur. I remember the first time I made this cake; it was for a friend’s birthday. The combination of flavors was so delightful that it quickly became a staple in my dessert repertoire.

What is Irish Cream Poke Cake?

Irish Cream Poke Cake is a moist chocolate cake that gets its name from the holes poked into it after baking. These holes are filled with a mixture of Irish cream liqueur and sweetened condensed milk, making each bite incredibly rich and flavorful. Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

Why I Love Irish Cream Poke Cake Recipe

One of the reasons I adore this cake is its simplicity. It’s easy to make, and you don’t need fancy baking skills. Just bake, poke, and fill. The flavors are also a big win. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the creamy Irish liqueur, creating a dessert that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Ingredients for Irish Cream Poke Cake Recipe

To whip up this delightful dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Cake:

1 box chocolate cake mix
Ingredients required for the cake mix (usually water, oil, and eggs)

Filling:

1 cup Irish cream liqueur
1 can sweetened condensed milk

Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

How to Make Irish Cream Poke Cake Recipe

Making Irish Cream Poke Cake is a straightforward process. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Prepare your cake mix as directed. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Poke the Holes

Once the cake is baked and cooled for about 10-15 minutes, take a fork or skewer and poke holes all over the top. Make sure to poke deep enough to allow the filling to seep in.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the Irish cream liqueur and sweetened condensed milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it gets into all the holes. This step is crucial for that delicious flavor infusion.

Step 4: Chill the Cake

Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cake to absorb the filling.

Step 5: Make the Topping

When you’re ready to serve, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread this whipped cream over the chilled cake. Sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa powder on top for a finishing touch.

Tips for Irish Cream Poke Cake Recipe

Here are some tips I’ve gathered over the years to make this cake even better:

Use Quality Irish Cream: The flavor of the liqueur is key. A good quality Irish cream will elevate the taste of your cake.
Don’t Skip Chilling: Allowing the cake to chill is essential for flavor absorption. Patience pays off here.
Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate to the topping for added texture.

Serving Suggestions for Irish Cream Poke Cake

This cake is versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas:

Pair with Coffee: The rich flavors of the cake go perfectly with a cup of coffee. It makes for a delightful dessert after dinner.
Serve at Parties: This cake is a crowd-pleaser. Cut it into squares and serve it at gatherings or celebrations.
Add Fresh Berries: For a refreshing twist, serve slices with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. They add a nice tartness that balances the sweetness.

Storing Irish Cream Poke Cake

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), storing the cake is easy. Here’s how:

Refrigerate: Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier.
Freeze: You can also freeze slices of the cake for later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.

Variations of Irish Cream Poke Cake Recipe

While the classic version is fantastic, there are several variations you might want to try:

Vanilla Cake Base: Swap the chocolate cake mix for a vanilla one for a different flavor profile. The Irish cream will still shine through.
Different Liqueurs: Experiment with other liqueurs like coffee or hazelnut for a unique twist.
Add Fruit: Incorporate layers of fruit or fruit-flavored filling for a fresh contrast to the rich cake.

Why This Cake is Perfect for Special Occasions

I love making Irish Cream Poke Cake for special occasions. It’s not just about the taste; it’s also about the presentation. The whipped cream topping gives it a beautiful finish, making it look elegant enough for any celebration. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a get-together, this cake always makes a statement.