If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s as playful and bold as it is irresistibly delicious, the Fireball Poke Cake Recipe is your new best friend. This cake dazzles with the warm, spicy kick of cinnamon and the unmistakable sweetness of Fireball Whiskey, perfectly mingling with a moist butter pecan base. Every bite delivers a symphony of flavors that feels both cozy and exciting, making it a standout treat for gatherings, celebrations, or simply a fun twist to your weeknight dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Fireball Poke Cake Recipe is delightfully simple to put together, relying on a handful of ingredients that each bring something special to the table: from the aromatic cinnamon that spices it up, to the luscious cream cheese that gives the frosting a velvety charm. The combination hits all the right notes in taste, texture, and that captivating color you want your dessert to have.
- Butter pecan cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): Provides a rich, buttery base with crunchy pecan flavors baked right in.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp + 3/4 tsp): Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the spicy notes.
- Vegetable oil (â…“ cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender throughout.
- Large eggs (3): Essential for structure and fluffiness.
- Room temperature water (½ cup): Balances the batter consistency.
- Fireball Whiskey (½ cup + 1 1/2 cups): The star ingredient that brings that signature cinnamon-spiced sweetness and a gentle boozy glow.
- Walnuts, halves (7 oz): Provides a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and caramelizes slightly when baked.
- Whisky (3 Tbsp): A complementary splash to deepen flavor complexity.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Rounds out the flavors with a smooth, fragrant touch.
- Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and brings out all flavors.
- Melted butter (½ cup): Adds richness and tenderness.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups + 2 cups): For that perfect, silky frosting texture.
- Cream cheese, softened (½ cup): Creates a tangy, creamy frosting that’s the perfect partner to the spicy cake.
- Lemon extract (1 tsp): Adds a subtle brightness to the frosting.
- Milk (2 Tbsp): Adjusts frosting consistency for spreading or piping.
How to Make Fireball Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Begin by mixing the butter pecan cake mix with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, vegetable oil, eggs, half a cup of room temperature water, and half a cup of Fireball Whiskey. This magical blend transforms a simple box cake into an aromatic, spiced base infused with the fiery twist of Fireball. Stir everything together until smooth and pour it into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
Step 2: Bake and Cool
Bake the cake according to the package instructions—usually around 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F. Once golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Cooling is crucial here so the next step doesn’t make the cake too soggy.
Step 3: Poke the Cake and Pour the Whiskey Mixture
Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake—this is what makes it a poke cake! In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of Fireball Whiskey, 1 cup sugar, 3 tablespoons whisky, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon salt, 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Pour this intoxicating blend evenly over the cake, letting the liquid seep down into those holes to create moist bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese with 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon lemon extract, and 2 tablespoons milk until creamy and smooth. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar and continue to mix until luscious and fluffy. This creamy topping is the perfect counterbalance to the spicy, boozy cake beneath it.
Step 5: Assemble and Garnish
Once the soaked cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Sprinkle with the walnut halves for a delightful crunch and nutty finish. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Fireball Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes not only enhance the look of your Fireball Poke Cake Recipe but also add exciting textures. Toasted walnuts create a wonderful contrast in every bite, while a light dusting of cinnamon powder can heighten the spicy aroma. For festive occasions, a few cinnamon sticks or caramel drizzle on top can also turn it into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
For a truly indulgent experience, serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. If you want to balance the sweetness, pairing it with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea is divine. These sides bring forward the cake’s fruity, spicy, and creamy notes effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Fireball Poke Cake Recipe presentation up a notch by cutting the cake into petite squares and serving them on decorative plates with a sprig of mint or edible flowers. You could even transform it into mini trifle cups layered with extra walnuts and cinnamon cream. Presentation is all about adding personal flair and making every slice feel like a dessert party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Fireball Poke Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled not only preserves the creamy frosting but also maintains the moist, boozy-soaked texture of the cake, so every forkful tastes fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it inside a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge, and the flavors and texture will be wonderfully intact, perfect for making ahead of a party or special occasion.
Reheating
Since this is a moist, boozy cake topped with cream cheese frosting, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting slightly and bring out the full flavor of the Fireball infusion.
FAQs
Can I substitute another type of whiskey for Fireball?
While Fireball is key for its signature cinnamon flavor, you can use other cinnamon-flavored whiskeys. If using plain whiskey, expect a less spicy and more neutral kick, so you may want to add extra cinnamon to compensate.
Is the alcohol cooked out during baking?
Since the whiskey is mainly poured over after baking in this poke cake, the boozy flavor remains quite pronounced. If you prefer a less alcoholic taste, try reducing the amount or substituting with cinnamon syrup for that spicy sweetness without alcohol.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix if available. Just ensure all other ingredients you add are gluten-free. The flavor and texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How should I cut the cake for serving?
Because this cake is richly soaked and frosted, cut it carefully using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices. Squares of about 2 inches work well to keep portions manageable and elegant.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan or bake in batches. The layers of flavor and texture scale beautifully, so doubling means even more cake to share and enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way the Fireball Poke Cake Recipe combines the familiar comfort of spiced butter pecan cake with a fiery whiskey kick and creamy frosting. If you want a dessert that’s fun, flavorful, and guaranteed to spark smiles, this is it. Give it a try, and watch it become your new crowd-pleasing favorite!
Print
Fireball Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 9.9 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Fireball Poke Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that combines buttery pecan cake infused with cinnamon and a generous kick of Fireball Whiskey. Topped with a creamy, spiked frosting, this indulgent cake is perfect for festive occasions or whenever you’re craving a boozy treat with a spicy-sweet twist.
Ingredients
Cake Mix
- 1 box (15.25 oz) butter pecan cake mix
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- â…“ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup water (room temperature)
- ½ cup Fireball Whiskey
Filling & Topping
- 7 oz walnut halves
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 Tbsp whisky (Fireball recommended)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup butter (melted)
- 1 ½ cups Fireball Whiskey
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp lemon extract
- 2 Tbsp milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, vegetable oil, eggs, half cup water, and half cup Fireball Whiskey. Mix until the batter is smooth and well incorporated. This mixture will yield a flavorful cake base with a pleasant cinnamon and whiskey aroma.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before proceeding.
- Poke the Cake and Add Soak: Once the cake is warm but not hot, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the surface. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 ½ cups Fireball Whiskey, 1 cup sugar, 3 tablespoons whisky, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon salt, ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ½ cup melted butter. Pour this whiskey mixture slowly over the cake, allowing it to soak deeply into the holes, enhancing flavor and moistness.
- Prepare the Frosting and Assemble: In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup softened cream cheese with 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon lemon extract, and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and creamy to make the frosting. Spread this cream cheese frosting evenly over the soaked cake. Sprinkle the walnut halves generously on top for a crunchy texture contrast. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to let flavors meld and frosting set perfectly.
Notes
- This cake is best served chilled to enjoy the full flavors of the soaked whiskey and creamy frosting.
- Adjust the amount of Fireball Whiskey for a milder or stronger boozy flavor according to preference.
- Walnuts can be toasted beforehand to add extra crunch and depth of flavor.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or substitute with safe nuts or seeds.
