Name: Egg Nog Layer Cake with Whipped Cream Icing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 1/2 cups egg nog; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons red green and white sprinkles

There is something about egg nog that instantly feels like the holidays. Creamy, lightly spiced, and just sweet enough to make you pause for a second sip. Now imagine that flavor baked into soft golden cake layers and wrapped in clouds of whipped cream icing. This Egg Nog Layer Cake with Whipped Cream Icing is festive, cozy, and honestly a little magical. The texture is tender and moist, the icing is airy and smooth, and those red, green, and white sprinkles on top just make it feel like a celebration waiting to happen. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

And now that you can picture that fluffy slice on your plate, let’s dive into why this cake deserves center stage on your holiday table.

Why This Cake Feels Like the Holidays in Every Bite

This is not just another layered dessert. It carries warmth from ground nutmeg, richness from butter and egg nog, and that light whipped topping that melts gently on your tongue.

Each forkful gives you soft cake soaked with subtle spice, balanced sweetness, and creamy icing that feels almost like fresh snowfall. It is festive without being overwhelming, sweet without being heavy. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

A Classic Holiday Flavor Turned Into a Showstopper

Egg nog has long been a winter tradition, often served chilled in glasses by the fire. Its creamy base and gentle spice have inspired cookies, custards, and now this beautiful layered cake.

By baking it into the batter, you capture that nostalgic flavor in every slice. Topping it with whipped cream icing keeps the dessert light and elegant, perfect for gatherings where you want something special but not overly rich.

Why This Recipe Always Delivers

When you want a dessert that feels impressive yet completely doable, this one checks every box.

Versatile: Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or winter birthdays.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples and seasonal egg nog.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward mixing method without complicated steps.

Customizable: Adjust the nutmeg level or decorate with different sprinkles.

Crowd-Pleasing: Light whipped icing and soft cake appeal to all ages.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

Great for Leftovers: Stays moist and flavorful for several days.

Baker’s Insider Tips for Perfect Layers

Before we start mixing, here are a few tips to guarantee success.

Bring butter, eggs, and egg nog to room temperature for smooth blending.
Cream butter and sugar thoroughly to create a light base.
Do not overmix once flour is added, which keeps the cake tender.
Chill the whipped cream icing slightly before spreading for better structure.

Small steps like these make a noticeable difference.

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

Having the right tools makes baking feel calm and organized.

9 by 13 Inch Baking Dish: Perfect for layered presentation and easy slicing.

Mixing Bowls: One large for batter and one chilled bowl for whipping cream.

Electric Mixer: Helps create fluffy butter mixture and stable whipped cream.

Spatula: For folding and smoothing icing evenly.

Ingredients You Will Need for This Festive Cake

Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor and texture.

All Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups. Provides structure for the cake layers.
Granulated Sugar: 1 1/2 cups. Sweetens and supports tender crumb.
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened. Adds richness and smooth texture.
Eggs: 4 large, room temperature. Provide structure and moisture.
Egg Nog: 1 1/2 cups. Infuses creamy holiday flavor into the batter.
Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons. Ensures gentle lift.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Balances sweetness.
Ground Nutmeg: 1 teaspoon. Adds warm spice.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Enhances overall flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: 2 cups, cold. Forms the light whipped icing.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup. Sweetens and stabilizes the icing.
Red Green and White Sprinkles: 2 tablespoons. Add festive decoration.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

You can still adjust based on what you have.

Ground Nutmeg: Cinnamon for a slightly different warmth.

Heavy Whipping Cream: Stabilized whipped topping if needed.

Vanilla Extract: Almond extract for a subtle twist.

Spotlight on the Holiday Stars

Two ingredients truly define this cake.

Egg Nog: Creamy, lightly spiced, and slightly sweet, it carries the signature holiday flavor throughout the cake.

Whipped Cream Icing: Light and airy, it balances the richness of the cake without overpowering it.

Let’s Bake This Together

Now comes the best part, bringing it all together.

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in egg nog and vanilla extract.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Ensure baking dish is evenly greased for easy release.
Assemble the Dish: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth evenly.
Cook to Perfection: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Finishing Touches: Allow cake to cool completely. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread evenly over cooled cake and decorate with sprinkles.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Texture and Flavor That Feel Like a Celebration

The cake is soft and tender with subtle spice from nutmeg. The whipped cream icing is smooth and fluffy, melting gently against the moist crumb. The sprinkles add a tiny crunch and bright color that makes each slice feel festive.

It is balanced, comforting, and just sweet enough.

Helpful Baking Tips

A few thoughtful touches make it even better.

Chill the bowl and beaters before whipping cream for faster results.
Do not overbake, which can dry the cake.
Spread icing only after the cake is fully cool.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even simple cakes can have small issues.

Overmixing can create a dense texture.
Warm cake will melt the whipped cream icing.
Using warm cream prevents proper whipping.

Nutritional Snapshot

Servings: 12 slices

Calories per serving: Approximately 360

Note: These values are approximate and may vary.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor deepens as it rests, and the icing stays beautifully fluffy.

You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost before serving for best presentation.

Serving Ideas to Elevate It

Serve chilled with hot coffee or spiced tea. Add a light dusting of extra nutmeg just before serving for aroma.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Cut leftover slices into cubes and layer into dessert cups with extra whipped cream. You can also freeze slices individually for a quick treat later.

Extra Tips for Success

Measure flour carefully by spooning and leveling. Use fresh nutmeg if possible for brighter flavor. Always taste the whipped cream before spreading to adjust sweetness.

Make It a Holiday Showstopper

Add a light swirl pattern to the whipped cream using a spatula for texture. Sprinkle evenly for a polished finish. Present in a clean dish for maximum visual impact.

Variations to Try

Add a teaspoon of rum extract for deeper holiday flavor.
Stir white chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.
Add a thin layer of vanilla pudding between cake and icing.
Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for crunch.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use store bought egg nog?

Yes, full fat egg nog works best for flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I freeze the cake?

Freeze unfrosted cake layers for best results.

Q3: How do I stabilize whipped cream?

Add powdered sugar gradually and whip until soft peaks form.

Q4: Can I bake in round pans?

Yes, divide batter evenly between two pans.

Q5: How do I know it is done baking?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Q6: Can I reduce the sugar?

You may slightly reduce it, but it affects texture.

Q7: Is fresh nutmeg better?

Freshly grated nutmeg gives stronger aroma.

Q8: Can I make cupcakes instead?

Yes, adjust baking time to about 18 to 20 minutes.

Q9: Why did my whipped cream deflate?

It may have been under whipped or too warm.

Q10: Should it be served chilled?

Chilled slices hold their shape best.

Conclusion

Egg Nog Layer Cake with Whipped Cream Icing captures the warmth and sweetness of the holiday season in every slice. It is soft, festive, and beautifully balanced with light icing and gentle spice. Once you serve it, do not be surprised if everyone asks for seconds. Bake it, slice it, and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.