White Russian Cake

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White Russian Cake

Moist Coffee-Infused Cake with Creamy Vanilla Vodka Frosting

If you love the smooth, creamy flavor of a classic White Russian, this White Russian Cake transforms that iconic drink into a rich, decadent dessert. With notes of coffee, vanilla, and cream — plus a subtle kick of vodka flavor — this cake is moist, elegant, and perfect for celebrations.

It’s ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you want a sophisticated dessert with bold flavor and bakery-style presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

  • Moist and tender crumb

  • Balanced coffee and vanilla flavor

  • Smooth, creamy frosting

  • Elegant and impressive

  • Perfect for adult celebrations

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

  • Bake Time: 30–35 minutes

  • Cooling Time: 1 hour

  • Total Time: About 2 hours

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)

  • 1 tbsp instant espresso powder

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • ¼ cup brewed strong coffee (cooled)

  • ¼ cup vodka

  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the Coffee Cream Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 4 cups powdered sugar

  • 2 tbsp heavy cream

  • 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (dissolved in 1 tsp hot water)

  • 1 tbsp vodka

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Garnish

  • Chocolate shavings

  • Cocoa powder dusting

  • Chocolate-covered espresso beans

How to Prepare White Russian Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour

  • Baking powder

  • Baking soda

  • Salt

Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:

  1. Beat butter until smooth.

  2. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).

This step creates a tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor

  1. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  2. Mix in vanilla extract and espresso powder.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

In a separate bowl, combine:

  • Milk

  • Brewed coffee

  • Vodka

Alternate adding dry ingredients and wet mixture to the batter, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
Bake 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

  1. Beat butter until creamy.

  2. Gradually add powdered sugar.

  3. Mix in dissolved espresso, heavy cream, vodka, and vanilla extract.

  4. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Adjust consistency by adding more cream if needed.

Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on serving plate.

  2. Spread frosting evenly on top.

  3. Add second layer.

  4. Frost top and sides.

Decorate with chocolate shavings or a light cocoa dusting for a dramatic finish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing.

Let coffee cool before adding to prevent melting butter.

Chill cake 20 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

For stronger flavor, brush cake layers lightly with coffee-vodka mixture before frosting.

Storage Instructions

Store covered at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate up to 4 days.

Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Estimated Calories

Per slice (based on 12 servings):
Approximately 480–550 calories.

Calories vary depending on frosting thickness.

Optional Variations

Chocolate White Russian Cake:
Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the batter.

White Russian Poke Cake:
Poke holes and pour a coffee-cream mixture over the baked cake before frosting.

Layered Tiramisu Style:
Add mascarpone to the frosting for a richer finish.

Final Thoughts

White Russian Cake is elegant, bold, and indulgent. The combination of coffee, cream, vanilla, and vodka creates a balanced flavor that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated.

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