Skip to content

Top Navigation

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Gardening
  • Home Improvement Ideas
  • Cleaning and Organizing
  • Recipes and Cooking
  • Decorating
  • Holidays
  • Rooms
  • Shopping
  • News

Profile Menu

Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin

Explore Better Homes & Gardens

Better Homes & Gardens
Better Homes & Gardens
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      The Only Weed Identification Guide You'll Ever Need: 33 Common Weedy Plants to Watch For

      Don't let these pesky plants crash your garden party! The first step is to know your enemy. Then you'll know the best way to deal with your weed problem. Read More
    • 6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      6 Small Steps You Can Take Today to Get Organized for Good

      A professional organizer offers advice on how to tidy up your home without feeling overwhelmed. Read More
    • 5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      5 Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients to Add to Your Smoothie for a Healthy Boost

      Anti-inflammatory smoothies do exist! Instead of blending in boatloads of sugar and artificial ingredients, try these smoothies for inflammation that are stoked with ingredients that may help lower your risk for chronic diseases including cancer, heart disease, depression, and more. Read More
  • Gardening

    Gardening

    See All Gardening
    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    4 DIY Seed-Starting Pots You Can Make With Items You Already Have

    Upcycle old newspapers, junk mail, and other waste paper to make these easy, eco-friendly containers you can use to sprout new plants for your garden.
    • Flowers
    • Houseplants
    • Plant Encyclopedia
    • Garden Pests
    • Trees, Shrubs & Vines
    • Caring for Your Yard
    • Edible Gardening
    • Garden Design
    • Gardening By Region
    • Landscaping
  • Home Improvement Ideas

    Home Improvement Ideas

    See All Home Improvement Ideas
    What Style Is Your House? The 10 most popular American house styles explained.

    What Style Is Your House? The 10 most popular American house styles explained.

    In a world full of so many different house styles, it can be a little challenging just to narrow down your own home's architectural style, let alone–if you're buying—to edit the list down to your favorite style. We'll show you the 10 most popular American house styles, including Cape Cod, French Country, Colonial, Victorian, Tudor, Craftsman, Cottage, Mediterranean, ranch-style, and Contemporary.
    • Home Exteriors
    • DIY Home Electrical Tips & Guides
    • Outdoor Structures
    • Home Remodeling
    • Plumbing Installations & Repairs
    • Remodeling Advice & Planning
    • Flooring
    • Lighting
    • Decks
    • Porches
  • Cleaning and Organizing

    Cleaning and Organizing

    See All Cleaning and Organizing
    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    A Whole-House Cleaning Schedule You'll Actually Stick To

    Cleaning your home doesn't have to be a daunting, time-consuming chore. The key to managing household duties quickly and efficiently is to design an easy-to-follow routine that includes all the most important tasks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for creating a customized whole-home cleaning schedule.
    • House Cleaning
    • Laundry & Linens
    • Cleaning Tips
    • Closet Organization
    • Organization Tips
    • Kitchen Storage Organization
  • Recipes and Cooking

    Recipes and Cooking

    See All Recipes and Cooking
    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    21 Essential Baking Tools Every Home Cook Needs (Plus 16 That Are Nice to Have)

    If you're a beginner baker who's just starting out (or a master chef looking to declutter), start with this list of baking tool must-haves. We'll help you set up a baking essentials kit for beginners with 21 pastry tools. For those who already own these handy tools, this list may finally provide the motivation you need to toss that never-been-used soufflé dish. Building your essential baking tools and equipment inventory starts here.
    • How to Cook
    • Chicken Recipes
    • Desserts & Baking
    • Fish Recipes
    • Beef Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Breakfast and Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch
    • Dinner Recipes & Meal Ideas
    • Ethnic Food
  • Decorating

    Decorating

    See All Decorating
    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    7 Interior Design Trends Everyone Will Be Trying in 2021, According to Experts

    Designers weigh in on the most popular decorating styles, colors, and materials you can look forward to in the coming year.
    • Choosing Color
    • Expert Decorating Advice
    • Fireplace Design Ideas
    • Do It Yourself Magazine
    • Window Treatments
    • Styles & Decor
    • Interior Painting
    • Home Makeovers
    • Small-Space Decorating
    • Traditional Home
  • Holidays

    Holidays

    See All Holidays
    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    International Women's Day: The Powerful Story Behind This 111-Year-Old Tradition

    What began as a small movement, has grown into a global holiday dedicated to celebrating the strong women in our communities.
    • Valentine's Day
    • Mother's Day
    • Easter
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July/Memorial Day
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Christmas
    • New Year's
    • Juneteenth
    • Hanukkah
  • Rooms

    Rooms

    See All Rooms
    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Living Room Furniture Arrangement Ideas

    Get tips for arranging living room furniture in a way that creates a comfortable and welcoming environment and makes the most of your space.
    • Bedroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Bathroom Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Kitchen Decorating and Design Ideas
    • Living Room Decorating and Design
    • Dining Room
    • Home Office
    • Kid's Rooms
    • Baby Nursery
  • Shopping
  • News

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Join Now

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
My Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • My Profile
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • BH&G Books this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. BHG.com
  2. Recipes and Cooking
  3. Desserts & Baking
  4. These Alcohol-Infused Desserts Will Leave Everyone in Good Spirits

These Alcohol-Infused Desserts Will Leave Everyone in Good Spirits

Karla Walsh Headshot
By Karla Walsh Updated October 28, 2021
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin FB
Bread and Butter Pudding with Salted Caramel Whiskey Butter Sauce
Credit: Andy Lyons
Combine an after-dinner drink and the final course in one via these alcohol-infused desserts. With ideas for cake recipes with alcohol in them, tipsy floats, and icy alcohol desserts, these boozy desserts will definitely give guests something to buzz about. Prosecco, stout, bourbon, and more star in our all-time favorite alcohol-infused desserts.
Start Slideshow

1 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Peaches & Cream Prosecco Cake

Peaches & Cream Prosecco Cake
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Pop a bottle and prepare to put a boozy twist on the classic poke cake. After baking, this party-perfect layer cake recipe calls for soaking the cake layers in a cup of Prosecco. Next comes a peach and Prosecco filling between each level, and lastly, a homemade whipped cream frosting crowns the centerpiece dessert. Peaches and cream have never tasted better than in this “drunk” cake idea.

1 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Watermelon Margarita Pops

Watermelon Margarita Pops
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

This is definitely our new favorite way to eat fresh watermelon. Just freeze watermelon slices in a mixture of orange zest, tequila, and orange juice, and voilà—a no-sweat liquor dessert. During steamy summer days, margarita ice pops might just be better than the real thing.

2 of 18

3 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Bread and Butter Pudding with Salted Caramel Whiskey Butter Sauce

Bread and Butter Pudding with Salted Caramel Whiskey Butter Sauce
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

What could make gooey, warm, comforting bread pudding any better? If you ask us and present the theme of “alcohol-infused desserts,” our number one answer is definitely Irish whiskey. Soaking the raisins in whiskey gives them a little extra punch. A splash of extra whiskey in the buttery sauce makes this dessert extra rich and just spirited enough.

Buy It: Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey ($30, Target)

3 of 18

Advertisement

4 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

No-Bake Irish Cream Pudding Bars

No-Bake Irish Cream Cookie Bars
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Two semi-homemade shortcuts (store-bought chocolate sandwich cookies and vanilla instant pudding mix), one pan, and zero baking time; this Irish dessert recipe with alcohol looks elegant but is oh-so easy to make. Those crunchy cookies pair beautifully with the rich and luscious Irish cream filling. A layer of chocolate tops things off to complete this no-bake bar cookie recipe that can chill in the fridge for 2 hours or up to 3 days.

Related: These Make-Ahead Pies, Cakes, and Tarts Are an Entertainer's Dream

4 of 18

5 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Raspberry Hibiscus "Frosecco"

Stone Fruit Granita
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

One of the biggest frozen dessert trends of the 21st century (so far): Frosé! It’s tough to resist the grown-up slushie vibes of the popular alcohol dessert. But we took that concept and added a couple more en vogue elements by way of fresh raspberries for natural sweetness, berry-hibiscus tea for a flavor- and antioxidant-boost, plus bubbly, perky, Prosecco in place of the rosé. Use a blender to combine all of the above, minus the Prosecco, then stir in the bubbly and freeze until firm and ready to scoop.

5 of 18

6 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Bourbon-Chocolate Tipsy Cake

Bourbon-Chocolate Tipsy Cake
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Calling all brown spirit fans. Added up, this chocolate cake with its booze-infused sauce has a full cup of bourbon. (Don’t worry, this cake recipe with alcohol in it is not too tipsy; that works out to a reasonable ⅔ ounce per person.) One BH&G home baker raves, “this cake is delicious! I will be making this often for sure. My mom says this is the best tipsy cake she's had.”

6 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Raspberry Rosé Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream

Raspberry Rose Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream
Credit: Amy Nesbit
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Alcohol desserts don't get much easier than this wine-spiked cake. Start with a white box cake mix, replacing the water called for with rosé wine. For a showy presentation, serve with fresh berries on top—and a glass of sparkling wine on the side, naturally.

7 of 18

8 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Honey-Rose Plum Cobbler

Honey-Rose Plum Cobbler
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Ever since our Test Kitchen developed this recipe nearly a decade ago, we simply must say “yes way” to this alcohol-infused dessert at least once every plum season. The cobbler's intoxicating edge comes from adding rosé wine to the deliciously sweet plum filling. Golden brown biscuits are just the cherry on top of this mouthwatering dessert.

8 of 18

9 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Boozy Affogato Trifles

Boozy Affogato Trifles
Credit: Hannah Bigot
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Traditional affogato features a scoop of vanilla gelato, custard, or ice cream topped with a shot of espresso. In this chocolate dessert with alcohol, instead of espresso, we swap in equal parts coffee liqueur and Irish cream liqueur for a boozy and buzzy garnish. For even more decadence, layer the mason jar dessert with brownie bites and chocolate syrup, too.

9 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Baked Alaska with Rum Pudding Ice Cream

Baked Alaska Rum Pudding Ice Cream Cake
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

If you live by the motto “go big or go home,” this might just be the liquor dessert for you. Rum-soaked fruit, rum-infused ice cream, and cake brushed with rum—we’re not skimping on the spirits or the eye appeal. The beautiful brûlée is actually a cinch to DIY: simply coat the frozen cake with a layer of fluffy meringue, then broil just 2 to 4 minutes.

10 of 18

11 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Wine-Poached Pear Trifle

Wine-Poached Pear Trifle
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Next time you’re hosting a group of vino devotees, turn to this alcohol dessert. Not two tablespoons, not two cups, but two bottles of red wine give this trifle dessert its intoxicating qualities. In addition to the spirited pears, this pretty potluck-perfect parfait features a fluffy hazelnut cream, a sweet and crunchy streusel layer, and classically elegant vanilla cake.

Buy It: Royalty Art Trifle Bowl with Pedestal ($30, Amazon)

11 of 18

12 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Sparkling Rosé Blueberry Floats

Sparkling Rose Blueberry Floats
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

If regular ice cream floats seem too heavy, this grown-up float is the perfect solution. Just pour sparkling rosé over blueberry granita and coconut gelato, then grab a straw and prepare to feel (practically) swept away to a beach vacation. This alcohol-infused dessert is crisp, light, and fruity—and requires just six ingredients for its no-sweat process.

12 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Brownies with Brandied Cherries

Brownies with Brandied Cherries
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Were cherry cordials among your top picks from the box of chocolates or at those nostalgic chocolate store candy counters? Because one bite is good, but several are better, we’ve taken similar flavors and transformed it into a larger-format plated chocolate dessert with alcohol. Brandy-simmered cherries make an intoxicating topper for a classic brownie recipe. Chocolate, cherries, brandy...what's not to love?

13 of 18

14 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Stout Gingerbread with Lemony Hard Sauce

Stout Gingerbread with Lemony Hard Sauce
Credit: Blaine Moats
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Cue “Let it Snow,” light the fireplace or a cozy scented candle, and whip up this gingerbread that will put everyone in good spirits. To make one of the best cake recipes with alcohol in them for the holidays, grab your bundt pan, a few warm spices and baking staples, molasses, and not one but two boozy additions. Beer in the batter and citrus liqueur in the sauce feel festive and taste totally holiday-appropriate.

14 of 18

15 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Poached Nectarines with Honey Ice Cream

Poached Nectarines with Honey Ice Cream
Credit: Jennifer Davick
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Start by simmering nectarines in sweet Moscato wine, but pretty please don’t dump that cooking liquid! Simmer it a bit longer until it makes a thick syrup to drizzle over the fruit and ice cream. Can’t find honey ice cream, our preferred base for this alcohol dessert? It’s a breeze to DIY: simply mix 2 tablespoons into a quart of softened vanilla ice cream, then refreeze for 3 hours before scooping for the sundaes.

Buy It: OXO Ice Cream Scoop ($14, Bed Bath & Beyond)

15 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Spiced Zinfandel Granita with Grapes and Cream

Spiced Zinfandel Granita with Grapes and Cream
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

No need to break things off with red wine during the summer months. Freeze it into a refreshing, icy, alcohol-infused dessert full of Zinfandel and bright citrus flavors. (By the way, this same strategy would also be delicious with any dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Merlot, Shiraz/Syrah, or Pinot Noir.)

16 of 18

17 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Sangria Peach Compote with Ice Cream

Sangria Peach Compote with Ice Cream
Credit: Andy Lyons
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Searching for the ultimate alcohol dessert when summer farmers markets are in full swing? Consider this sangria-inspired stone fruit sundae. Wine, brandy, and Cointreau combine with peaches to create a tipsy topper perfect for ice cream, cake, shortbread, or even eating with a spoon straight out of the saucepan.

17 of 18

18 of 18

Save Pin FB
Tweet Email Send Text Message

Spiked Raspberry-Lemonade Cupcakes

Spiked Raspberry-Lemonade Cupcakes
Credit: Jason Donnelly
View Recipe this link opens in a new tab

Inspired by one of the most refreshing drinks of summer, you have options with these sweet-tart treats. Opt for milk in the batter for a family-friendly version, or try our tasty upgrade for a cupcake recipe with alcohol in them, which calls for a splash of raspberry liqueur instead. Either way, don’t skip the fluffy buttercream frosting—which can also be infused with a little extra booze if you like. (We do!)

18 of 18

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Karla Walsh

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 18 Peaches & Cream Prosecco Cake
    2 of 18 Watermelon Margarita Pops
    3 of 18 Bread and Butter Pudding with Salted Caramel Whiskey Butter Sauce
    4 of 18 No-Bake Irish Cream Pudding Bars
    5 of 18 Raspberry Hibiscus "Frosecco"
    6 of 18 Bourbon-Chocolate Tipsy Cake
    7 of 18 Raspberry Rosé Cake with Vanilla Bean Buttercream
    8 of 18 Honey-Rose Plum Cobbler
    9 of 18 Boozy Affogato Trifles
    10 of 18 Baked Alaska with Rum Pudding Ice Cream
    11 of 18 Wine-Poached Pear Trifle
    12 of 18 Sparkling Rosé Blueberry Floats
    13 of 18 Brownies with Brandied Cherries
    14 of 18 Stout Gingerbread with Lemony Hard Sauce
    15 of 18 Poached Nectarines with Honey Ice Cream
    16 of 18 Spiced Zinfandel Granita with Grapes and Cream
    17 of 18 Sangria Peach Compote with Ice Cream
    18 of 18 Spiked Raspberry-Lemonade Cupcakes

    Share & More

    Tweet Email Send Text Message
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Logo Products at Walmart
    • Better Homes & Gardens BHG Real Estate Real Estate Services
    Better Homes & Gardens

    Magazines & More

    Learn More

    • About Us
    • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
    • Books from Better Homes & Gardens
    • Help
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithBH&G is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Better Homes & Gardens. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.bhg.com

    Sign in

    View image

    These Alcohol-Infused Desserts Will Leave Everyone in Good Spirits
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.