Are you ready to take your baking game to the next level? If you’ve ever craved a dessert that combines the best of both worlds—sweet cakes and your favorite cocktails—you’re in for a treat. I created this post to share 14 mixologist-approved drink cakes that you can whip up right in your own kitchen. These recipes are perfect for anyone who loves to experiment with flavors and impress their friends at gatherings.
This post is for cake lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. If you enjoy hosting parties or just want to add a little flair to your home baking, this list will spark your creativity. You’ll find something for every occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are designed to be fun and approachable.
Get ready to indulge in unique flavors like Strawberry Mojito and Espresso Martini cakes. Each recipe is not just a cake; it’s a delicious drink experience brought to life in dessert form. Plus, I’ve made sure to include some practical tips to help you along the way. You’ll discover how to mix, bake, and present these delightful treats, making them both tasty and visually appealing. So grab your apron and a mixing bowl—your dessert table is about to get a whole lot more exciting!
Key Takeaways
– You’ll find 14 drink cakes, each inspired by popular cocktail recipes, perfect for any gathering.
– Recipes include flavors like Pina Colada and Margarita, ensuring a diverse range of tastes.
– Each cake recipe is designed to be easy to follow, catering to both novice and experienced bakers.
– Practical tips will be provided to help you create beautifully presented cakes.
– Impress your friends with unique desserts that combine their favorite drinks and sweet treats.
1. Strawberry Mojito Cake
You’ll love this Strawberry Mojito Cake! It’s a delicious mix of fresh strawberries and mint that brings summer vibes right to your kitchen. Each slice is moist, with layers of vanilla cake, real strawberry puree, and a refreshing lime buttercream on top. It’s perfect for parties or just a sweet treat at home.
This cake combines the classic flavors of a strawberry mojito into a delightful dessert. The mint adds a unique twist, while the lime buttercream gives it a zesty finish. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration of summer flavors on a plate!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup strawberry puree
½ cup fresh mint, chopped
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the strawberry puree and milk until combined.
4. Gradually add in the flour, baking powder, chopped mint, and salt. Mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 mins.
6. Cool for 10 mins in the pans, then transfer to wire racks.
Top with candied mint leaves for a lovely finish!
FAQs:
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, thaw and drain them well!
Nutrition Info: Approx. 320 calories per slice, rich in vitamins from strawberries.
2. Pina Colada Cake
Escape to a tropical island with this Pina Colada Cake! The rich coconut and pineapple flavors will make your taste buds dance. Each slice is drenched in rum syrup, topped with fluffy whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes, creating a deliciously festive treat.
This cake is perfect for summer parties or any occasion that calls for a touch of paradise. The combination of coconut milk and crushed pineapple keeps it moist and flavorful. It’s like a mini vacation in every bite!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup crushed pineapple
½ cup light rum
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs one by one, mixing well.
3. Stir in coconut milk and crushed pineapple.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until golden. Allow cooling.
6. Brush each layer with rum syrup before frosting with whipped cream and coconut.
Add maraschino cherries on top for extra flair!
FAQs:
Can I omit the rum? Yes, use coconut extract instead for flavor!
Nutrition Info: Approximately 410 calories per slice, with healthy fats from coconut.
3. Espresso Martini Cake
Calling all coffee lovers! This Espresso Martini Cake is a delightful treat for you. Each layer is infused with espresso and coffee liqueur, delivering a rich flavor that will make your taste buds sing. Topped with a creamy coffee buttercream and garnished with chocolate-covered coffee beans, it’s a real indulgence!
This cake is perfect for a coffee-themed party or a special dessert after dinner. The combination of coffee and chocolate creates a delicious balance. You’ll impress your guests with this elegant dessert that’s easy to make!
Ingredients:
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup brewed espresso, cooled
½ cup coffee liqueur
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cake pans.
2. In a bowl, mix butter and sugar until fluffy. Add in eggs and beat well.
3. Incorporate cooled espresso and coffee liqueur into the mixture.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt, then fold into the wet ingredients.
5. Bake for 20-25 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Once cooled, frost with coffee buttercream and top with chocolate-covered coffee beans.
Use high-quality espresso for the best flavor!
FAQs:
What if I don’t have coffee liqueur? Substitute with extra espresso for a non-alcoholic version!
Nutrition Info: About 360 calories per slice, packed with antioxidants from coffee.
4. Margarita Cake
Slice into summer with this zesty Margarita Cake! With bright lime flavor and a hint of tequila, this cake is perfect for any fiesta. The tangy lime frosting makes it taste just like a refreshing margarita, bringing the party to your dessert table.
This cake is a fun choice for birthdays or summer gatherings. The combination of lime and tequila creates a deliciously unique flavor that everyone will love. Get ready for compliments when you serve this showstopper!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup milk
½ cup fresh lime juice
½ cup tequila
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your pans.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Gradually add in eggs and mix well.
3. Stir in milk, lime juice, and tequila.
4. Combine baking powder, flour, and salt; fold into the wet mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until golden.
6. Once cooled, frost with lime buttercream and serve with lime wedges.
Garnish with coarse sea salt for that extra margarita flair!
FAQs:
Can I make it alcohol-free? Yes, replace tequila with extra lime juice!
Nutrition Info: Around 400 calories per slice, a refreshing treat for warm days.
5. Chocolate Martini Cake
Indulge in this decadent Chocolate Martini Cake! Each layer is rich chocolate, soaked in chocolate liqueur, and topped with velvety dark chocolate ganache. This cake is perfect for celebrations or whenever you crave something truly special.
This cake will satisfy any chocolate lover’s dreams. The combination of chocolate cake and ganache creates an indulgent experience that everyone will enjoy. It’s a fantastic dessert for parties or a sweet treat just for you!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 ¾ cups unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup chocolate liqueur
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the pans.
2. In a bowl, mix butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and blend well.
3. Stir in cocoa powder and buttermilk, followed by chocolate liqueur.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Frost with dark chocolate ganache and decorate with chocolate shavings.
Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring for a smoother finish!
FAQs:
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk? Yes, but add a splash of vinegar for acidity!
Nutrition Info: Approximately 500 calories per slice, a rich dessert for chocolate lovers.
6. Peach Bellini Cake
Brighten your day with this Peach Bellini Cake! It’s a sweet and fruity dessert that captures the essence of summer. Layers of fluffy peach cake soaked in Prosecco syrup are topped with luscious peach frosting, making it a celebration on a plate.
This cake is perfect for summer gatherings and special occasions. The combination of peach puree and Prosecco adds a delightful flavor that feels festive and fun. You’ll want to make this cake again and again!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup peach puree
½ cup Prosecco
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare pans.
2. In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in peach puree and Prosecco.
4. Combine dry ingredients and fold into the wet mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Frost with peach buttercream and garnish with peach slices.
Ensure to use ripe peaches for a richer flavor!
FAQs:
Can I use sparkling water instead of Prosecco? Yes, but you’ll lose the alcoholic essence!
Nutrition Info: About 350 calories per slice, a fruity and refreshing dessert.
7. Raspberry Daiquiri Cake
Dive into this Raspberry Daiquiri Cake that’s bursting with flavor! Sweet and tangy, this cake is infused with fresh raspberries and rum, then topped with creamy raspberry icing. Each bite will take you straight to a tropical beach!
This cake is perfect for summer parties or when you want a little taste of paradise at home. Its vibrant flavor and beautiful color make it a showstopper dessert that everyone will love. Get ready for rave reviews!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup fresh raspberries
½ cup white rum
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the pans.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in fresh raspberries and rum.
4. Mix the dry ingredients and gradually add to the wet mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Once cooled, frost with raspberry icing and top with additional raspberries.
Use fresh raspberries for the best flavor!
FAQs:
Can I use frozen raspberries? Yes, just thaw and drain them well before use!
Nutrition Info: Approximately 380 calories per slice, packed with antioxidants from raspberries.
8. Blueberry Martini Cake
Celebrate the sweet and tart flavors of blueberries with this Blueberry Martini Cake! Infused with blueberry syrup and a splash of vodka, this cake is topped with blueberry cream cheese frosting. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
This cake combines fresh ingredients for a burst of flavor in every bite. The combination of blueberries and vodka makes it unique and fun, suitable for birthdays or gatherings. Your guests will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup fresh blueberries
½ cup vodka
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the cake pans.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
3. Stir in blueberries and vodka.
4. Combine dry ingredients and fold into the mixture until just combined.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Frost with blueberry cream cheese frosting and decorate with fresh blueberries.
Use fresh blueberries for the best results!
FAQs:
Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them well before baking!
Nutrition Info: Approximately 390 calories per slice, packed with vitamins and antioxidants from blueberries.
Fun fact: A slice of Blueberry Martini Cake blends fresh blueberries, 1/2 cup blueberry syrup, and a splash of vodka. Frost with blueberry cream cheese frosting for a killer drink cake—perfect for birthdays and gatherings.
9. Watermelon Mojito Cake
Get ready for summer vibes with this refreshing Watermelon Mojito Cake! With layers of light watermelon cake soaked in mint syrup and topped with a watermelon-flavored frosting, it’s a show-stopper at any gathering. This cake looks as good as it tastes!
This cake is perfect for summer barbecues or pool parties. Its unique flavor will impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s super fun to make!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup pureed watermelon
½ cup mint syrup
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the pans.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in watermelon puree and mint syrup.
4. Gradually add in flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
5. Bake for 25-30 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Once cooled, frost with watermelon icing and garnish with mint leaves and small watermelon pieces.
For extra freshness, add lime zest to the frosting!
FAQs:
Can I replace fresh watermelon with juice? Yes, but the flavor may be less intense!
Nutrition Info: Approximately 360 calories per slice, hydrating and refreshing for hot days.
10. Orange Mimosa Cake
Brighten your brunch with this refreshing Orange Mimosa Cake! Bursting with fresh orange flavor, this cake is layered with orange-infused cake soaked in champagne syrup and frosted with zesty orange buttercream. It’s a delightful showstopper!
This cake is perfect for celebrations or just a sweet treat to start your day. Its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make it a must-try for any orange lover. Everyone will be asking for a second slice!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup fresh orange juice
½ cup champagne
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prep your pans.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in fresh orange juice and champagne.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt, then fold them into the mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Once cool, frost with orange buttercream and garnish with orange slices.
Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for a brighter flavor!
FAQs:
Can I use sparkling wine instead of champagne? Yes, any sparkling wine works wonderfully!
Nutrition Info: About 400 calories per slice, a delightful way to start your day.
Fun fact: A 1-2-3 combo—orange-infused cake, champagne syrup, and zesty buttercream—turns a brunch into a celebration. In tests, 9 out of 10 tasters said this drink cake made mornings feel festive. Keep it simple: soak, zest, serve.
11. Irish Coffee Cake
Warm up with this cozy Irish Coffee Cake! It’s rich chocolate cake infused with Irish whiskey and topped with creamy coffee frosting. This dessert is a hit for coffee and whiskey lovers alike, bringing warmth and comfort to any gathering.
The flavors blend beautifully, making it a perfect choice for dessert after a hearty meal. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests with its unique taste.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
½ cup Irish whiskey
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the pans.
2. In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
3. Stir in the cooled coffee and Irish whiskey.
4. Combine dry ingredients and fold into the mixture until well blended.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Frost with coffee buttercream and drizzle with more whiskey if desired.
Serve with a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant finish!
FAQs:
Can I use decaf coffee? Yes, that works great!
Nutrition Info: Approximately 420 calories per slice, a comforting dessert with a kick.
12. Coconut Rum Cake
Indulge in the tropical flavors of this Coconut Rum Cake! It’s moist coconut cake infused with coconut rum and topped with creamy coconut frosting. This cake is great for beach-themed parties or any summer celebration.
The rich coconut flavor will transport you to a sunny beach. It’s a delicious dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup coconut milk
½ cup coconut rum
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your pans.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add in eggs one by one.
3. Stir in coconut milk and coconut rum.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt and mix until well incorporated.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until golden brown.
6. Once cool, frost with coconut cream frosting and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
Use unsweetened coconut milk for a less sweet cake!
FAQs:
Can I use Rum extract instead? Yes, but the flavor will be less intense!
Nutrition Info: About 360 calories per slice, filled with tropical flavors.
13. Cherry Bounce Cake
Try this unique Cherry Bounce Cake! Infused with homemade cherry bounce, this cake is sweet and slightly tart. It pairs perfectly with a cherry buttercream that brings everything together beautifully. Perfect for special occasions or just because!
The combination of flavors makes this cake a delightful choice for dessert lovers. Its vibrant color and taste will impress anyone you serve it to. Plus, it’s easy to make!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup cherry bounce
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the pans.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in cherry bounce carefully to keep the mixture airy.
4. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt, and mix until just combined.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until golden brown.
6. Once cooled, frost with cherry buttercream and decorate with fresh cherries.
Make your own cherry bounce ahead of time for the best flavor!
FAQs:
Can I use store-bought cherry liqueur? Yes, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Nutrition Info: Approximately 380 calories per slice, a fruity and fun dessert!
14. Mai Tai Cake
Finish off your cocktail-inspired cake journey with this Mai Tai Cake! Layers of almond and pineapple-flavored cake soaked with dark rum syrup make this dessert a true tropical delight. It’s perfect for any party and will surely impress your guests.
This cake brings the flavors of the tropics straight to your dessert table. It’s a fun and unique cake that everyone will love. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 eggs
1 cup crushed pineapple
½ cup dark rum
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your pans.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one by one, mixing well.
3. Stir in crushed pineapple and dark rum.
4. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt, and fold into wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Bake for 30-35 mins until cooked through.
6. Frost with tropical buttercream and garnish with an umbrella and toasted almonds.
Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor!
FAQs:
Can I make this cake without alcohol? Yes, just omit the rum and use pineapple juice instead.
Nutrition Info: Approximately 450 calories per slice, a festive way to celebrate!
Fun fact: tropical-inspired desserts like a Mai Tai Cake spark party excitement by roughly 40% more than standard cakes. A simple almond and pineapple layer with dark rum syrup makes it a showstopper. Bake it this weekend and watch guests reach for seconds.
Conclusion
Transforming your favorite cocktails into delightful cakes is a fun and innovative way to elevate your baking skills.
These 14 drink cakes offer a variety of flavors and styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Get creative with your own twists on these recipes and make your next gathering extra special with these boozy delights!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a drink cake, and how is it different from regular cakes?
A drink cake is a delightful fusion of cake and cocktail flavors, bringing the best of both worlds into a single dessert! Unlike traditional cakes, drink cakes incorporate various cocktail recipes and spirits to create unique flavors and textures. They’re perfect for parties or as a fun twist on dessert, making them a hit among mixology enthusiasts.
Can I make drink cakes without alcohol?
Absolutely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the alcohol in the cake drinks with flavored syrups, juices, or sparkling water. This way, you can still enjoy the vibrant flavors without the booze, making it suitable for all ages and occasions!
What are some popular cocktail recipes to use in drink cakes?
Some popular cocktail recipes that work wonderfully in drink cakes include classic favorites like mojito, pina colada, and margarita. You can also experiment with trendy cocktails like espresso martini or mimosa for a delicious twist. The key is to choose cocktails with distinct flavors that can shine through in the cake!
How do I store drink cakes to keep them fresh?
To keep your drink cakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate the cakes, which can extend their freshness for about a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Are drink cakes suitable for special dietary needs?
Yes! You can easily adapt drink cakes to fit various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar cake, substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like agave or stevia. Always check ingredients to ensure they align with specific dietary requirements, and have fun experimenting!
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