Why You’ll Love This Harvey Wallbanger Cake Recipe
Why should you try this Harvey Wallbanger Cake recipe? I can tell you, it’s a delightful twist on a classic cocktail turned dessert!
The unique combination of flavors—citrusy orange, sweet vanilla, and a hint of herbal Galliano—creates an unforgettable taste experience.
It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, the cake is moist and tender, with a luscious glaze that adds an extra layer of sweetness.
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a special treat, this cake is sure to impress. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients of Harvey Wallbanger Cake
When it comes to baking a cake that brings a bit of fun to the table, the Harvey Wallbanger Cake is a fantastic choice. This cake isn’t just a cake; it’s a party on a plate. With its cocktail-inspired flavors and moist texture, it’s the perfect sweet treat for gatherings, celebrations, or even just a little indulgence on a regular day.
Let’s immerse ourselves in the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Galliano
- 2 tablespoons vodka
- 1 (18 1/2 ounce) box yellow cake mix
- 1 (3 3/4 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon Galliano (for the glaze)
- 1 tablespoon vodka (for the glaze)
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (for the glaze)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for the glaze)
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients for a moment. The Galliano, with its herbal and vanilla notes, is definitely the star of the show here—don’t skimp on it.
If you’ve never used it before, it’s what gives this cake that unique flavor profile that sets it apart from your everyday dessert. And while we’re at it, the vodka isn’t just for fun; it helps keep the cake moist.
On the other hand, the orange juice adds a revitalizing citrus zing that balances everything out. So, don’t hesitate to stock up on these ingredients; after all, who wouldn’t want to have a little extra Galliano on hand for a cocktail later?
Just remember to be mindful of the quantities if you plan on sharing your cake—though, let’s be honest, you might just want to keep it all for yourself.
How to Make Harvey Wallbanger Cake

Making a Harvey Wallbanger Cake is like throwing a little party in your kitchen, and trust me, it’s going to be a whole lot of fun. First, grab a large mixing bowl and throw in 1/2 cup of Galliano and 2 tablespoons of vodka. Now, I know what you might be thinking—it’s a bit of a party spirit, but hey, this cake is all about that cocktail vibe.
Next, add in one 18 1/2 ounce box of yellow cake mix along with one 3 3/4 ounce box of instant vanilla pudding. You can practically smell the sweetness already, can’t you?
Once you’ve got those dry ingredients in there, it’s time to mix things up. Crack four eggs into the bowl, then pour in 1/2 cup of vegetable oil and 1/2 cup of orange juice. Give it a good mix on medium speed for about three minutes until everything is smooth and beautifully combined.
It’s almost like a dance party—just you, the ingredients, and the mixer. Now, pour that vibrant batter into a greased and floured tube pan. The anticipation builds as you pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F. Set a timer for 45 minutes, but remember to keep an eye on it. You want it to be perfectly baked, not a sad, undercooked mess.
Once it’s done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before gently removing it from the pan.
But wait, we’re not finished yet. While the cake cools, it’s time to whip up that luscious glaze. In a blender, combine 1 tablespoon of Galliano, 1 tablespoon of vodka, and 1 tablespoon of orange juice with 1 cup of powdered sugar. Blend until smooth, and oh, the smell is divine.
Once your cake is warm, pour that glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides. It’s the finishing touch that makes this cake truly irresistible.
There you have it—your very own Harvey Wallbanger Cake, ready to impress friends, family, or just yourself on a cozy night in. Who says you can’t celebrate the little things, right?
Harvey Wallbanger Cake Substitutions & Variations
Now that we’ve whipped up a delightful Harvey Wallbanger Cake, you might be wondering how to make it your own or adapt it for specific dietary needs.
If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try using a sugar substitute in the cake mix and glaze. For a gluten-free option, replace the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend.
Want a twist? Substitute the Galliano with Amaretto for a nutty flavor, or use lemon juice instead of orange juice for a zesty kick.
These variations can keep things fresh and fun while still enjoying that classic taste!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Harvey Wallbanger Cake turns out perfectly, keep a few important tips in mind.
First, verify your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. I always grease and flour the tube pan well to prevent sticking.
When mixing, don’t overbeat; just until smooth. For a moist cake, avoid opening the oven door until the last ten minutes of baking.
After baking, let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Finally, drizzle the glaze while the cake is still warm for maximum absorption. Enjoy your delicious creation!