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harvey wallbanger cake

Harvey Wallbanger Cake – A Boozy, Citrus-Spiked Dessert

Inspired by the classic cocktail, the Harvey Wallbanger Cake is a light, fluffy, and tangy dessert with orange zest, vanilla vodka, and Galliano liqueur. It’s perfect for brunch, parties, or any occasion where you want a boozy twist on a classic sponge cake. Topped with a sweet glaze or whipped cream, this cake is sure to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Cocktail-inspired
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:
  • 1 box 15.25 oz yellow or white cake mix
  • 1 cup water
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp vanilla vodka optional
  • 1 tbsp Galliano liqueur optional
For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 –3 tbsp orange juice
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking pan or bundt pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Preheat oven
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or a bundt pan.
Prepare the batter
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs.
  2. Stir in orange zest, vanilla vodka, and Galliano liqueur until smooth.
Bake the cake
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool
  1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack if desired.
Prepare the glaze
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Serve
  1. Slice and serve as a light, citrusy dessert. Optionally, top with whipped cream or candied orange slices for garnish.

Notes

The alcohol is optional; the cake is flavorful even without it.
For an extra punch of citrus, fold in ¼ cup finely chopped mandarin oranges or orange segments.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.