What Is a Harvey Wallbanger Cake?
The Harvey Wallbanger Cake is a moist, citrus-infused Bundt cake made famous in the 1970s. It’s inspired by the Harvey Wallbanger cocktail, which mixes vodka, orange juice, and Galliano (a sweet herbal liqueur).
This dessert version captures the same bright flavor — but in a soft, golden cake that’s drizzled with glaze and packed with orange-vanilla goodness.
Why It’s Still a Classic
✅ Packed with nostalgic flavor
✅ Super moist texture thanks to oil and pudding mix
✅ Crowd-pleasing Bundt cake presentation
✅ Ideal for brunches, birthdays, or holidays
✅ Easy to make from a cake mix base
Ingredients You’ll Need
🍰 For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (no pudding in the mix)
- 1 small box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup vodka
- ¼ cup Galliano liqueur
🍊 For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp orange juice
- Optional: 1 tsp orange zest or a splash of Galliano
Step-by-Step Instructions
👨🍳 Total Time: 1 hour
🍰 Servings: 10–12
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Grease and flour a Bundt cake pan (or use baking spray with flour).
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, mix cake mix, pudding, eggs, oil, orange juice, vodka, and Galliano. Beat for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then flip onto a wire rack. Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled cake.
Can I Make It Without Alcohol?
Yes! For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka with extra orange juice, and swap Galliano with 1 tsp vanilla extract + ½ tsp almond extract.
Still delicious, safe for kids, and AdSense-compliant. ✅
Icing Tips & Variations
| Add-In | Flavor Result |
|---|---|
| Orange zest | Boosts citrus aroma |
| Galliano glaze | Enhances boozy flavor |
| Chopped pecans (in batter) | Adds texture |
| Whipped cream topping | Light and fluffy contrast |
| Vanilla bean glaze | For a gourmet finish |
How to Serve It
- Serve with coffee or tea
- Dust with powdered sugar before glazing
- Pair with brunch or potluck dishes
- Top with citrus slices or edible flowers for presentation
Storage Tips
- 🧊 Fridge: Keeps well for 5–6 days in a sealed container
- ❄️ Freezer: Freeze (unglazed) for up to 2 months
- 🔥 Reheat: Serve at room temperature or microwave 10–15 seconds
👉 Like vintage desserts? Don’t miss our Rocky Road Candy — a no-bake classic packed with marshmallows and crunch!
Final Thoughts
The Harvey Wallbanger Cake is a retro gem that’s still stealing the show today. With its sunny citrus notes, creamy texture, and light herbal kick, it’s the kind of cake that feels both nostalgic and modern.
Whether you go boozy or booze-free, it’s a dessert everyone will talk about long after the last slice is gone.
