Harvey Wallbanger Cake Recipe – Retro Boozy Dessert Classic
If you love vintage desserts with a boozy twist, this Harvey Wallbanger Cake Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Inspired by the classic Harvey Wallbanger cocktail, this cake is made with orange juice, vodka, and Galliano liqueur for a moist, flavorful treat that tastes just like the drink itself. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a nostalgic dessert, this easy bundt cake recipe delivers rich citrus flavor with a touch of elegance.
Why We Love This Harvey Wallbanger Cake
- Retro vibes – This cake became popular in the 1970s, making it a fun throwback dessert.
- Packed with flavor – Orange juice, vodka, and Galliano liqueur make every bite sweet, moist, and boozy.
- Effortless baking – Made with cake mix and pudding mix, it’s beginner-friendly but tastes gourmet.
- Perfect for gatherings – Whether it’s a dinner party or holiday dessert table, this cake always impresses.
Ingredients
(Makes 1 bundt cake – about 12 servings)
- 1 (15.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup orange juice (divided)
- 5 oz Galliano liqueur (divided)
- 2 oz vodka (divided)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep Your Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2 – Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix and pudding mix. Add eggs, vegetable oil, 4 oz Galliano, 1 oz vodka, and 4 oz orange juice. Beat until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 3 – Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4 – Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While the cake is still slightly warm, prepare the glaze.
Step 5 – Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 oz Galliano, 1 oz vodka, 2 tablespoons orange juice, and powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 6 – Finish and Serve
Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm cake. Let it set before slicing. Serve with coffee or a cocktail for a true retro experience!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
(Approx. based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 390
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Sugar: 36g
- Protein: 4g
Tips for the Best Harvey Wallbanger Cake
- Use fresh orange juice for the brightest flavor.
- Don’t skip the instant pudding mix—it keeps the cake extra moist.
- If you prefer less alcohol, reduce the vodka and Galliano in the glaze.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
FAQs
What is Harvey Wallbanger Cake made of?
It’s made with yellow cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, eggs, vegetable oil, orange juice, vodka, and Galliano liqueur, topped with a sweet boozy glaze.
Can I make Harvey Wallbanger Cake without alcohol?
Yes! You can substitute Galliano with vanilla extract and use extra orange juice in place of vodka.
What does Harvey Wallbanger Cake taste like?
It has a moist, citrusy flavor with a hint of vanilla and a subtle boozy kick from Galliano and vodka.
Can I bake this in a regular cake pan instead of a bundt pan?
Yes, but baking times may vary. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes if using a 9×13 pan.
Conclusion
This Harvey Wallbanger Cake recipe is a retro classic that’s as delicious today as it was in the 1970s. With its bright citrus notes and subtle liqueur flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for cocktail lovers and party hosts alike. Try it once, and you’ll see why it has stood the test of time.
