Baking a cake with vodka can add unique flavors and a moist texture, depending on how you use it. Vodka is neutral in flavor and can enhance certain baked goods when incorporated thoughtfully. Below are a few ideas and methods for making a cake with vodka:
1. Vodka-Infused Cake Batter
Incorporating vodka directly into the cake batter can add a subtle kick or enhance the flavor of extracts you’re using.
Ingredients (Basic Vanilla Vodka Cake)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
½ cup vodka (plain or flavored, such as vanilla, citrus, or berry)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
Mix in the vodka until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean).
Cool completely before serving.
2. Vodka Cake Soak
For an extra moist and boozy cake, create a vodka syrup to soak the cake after baking.
Vodka Cake Soak Recipe:
½ cup sugar
½ cup water
¼ cup vodka (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Heat the sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.
Stir in the vodka.
Poke holes in your baked cake with a skewer or fork. Brush or pour the vodka soak evenly over the cake. Let it absorb fully before serving.
3. Vodka Frosting (Boozy Buttercream)
Add a splash of vodka to your frosting for a grown-up twist.
Vodka Frosting Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons vodka
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Add food coloring or flavored vodka (like vanilla or citrus)
Instructions:
Beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
Stir in vanilla and vodka. Adjust the vodka to achieve the desired consistency.
Spread or pipe the frosting onto a cooled cake.
4. Vodka Glaze
A vodka glaze is quick to make and works perfectly for bundt cakes or pound cakes.
Ingredients:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons vodka
Optional: 1 teaspoon citrus juice (like lemon or orange)
Instructions:
Whisk together powdered sugar and vodka until smooth. Add citrus juice for flavor.
Drizzle over a cooled cake. Allow it to set before serving.
Tips for Baking with Vodka:
Flavored Vodka: Use citrus, vanilla, or berry-flavored vodka for additional taste.
Alcohol Content: Most of the alcohol bakes off in the oven, but in glazes or frosting, vodka remains potent—adjust to taste.
Pairing: Pair vodka with complementary flavors like citrus (lemon, orange), coffee, or chocolate for best results.
Recipe Inspiration: Lemon Vodka Cake
Try combining vodka with a citrus cake for a refreshing flavor:
Replace some of the liquid in a lemon cake recipe with vodka.
Use a lemon-vodka glaze for a tart and boozy topping.
With these methods, you can create a unique cake that’s both delicious and impressively adult! 🍰🍸
