Preparation

The Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster is described as the best drink in existence, and while we can't quite replicate the olive from Santraginus V, we can create a cake that captures its essence of overwhelming sensory delight. This citrus-forward dessert delivers wave after wave of bright, shocking flavor.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Fold in all three citrus zests into the butter mixture.
6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. While cake bakes, combine all three citrus juices with gin and a few drops of yellow food coloring in a small saucepan. Heat gently and stir in powdered sugar until dissolved.
9. When cake is done, poke holes all over the top with a skewer while still warm. Pour the citrus-gin syrup over the cake slowly, allowing it to soak in.
10. Once cooled, dust the top with gold luster dust mixed with a tiny bit of vodka to create a paintable paste. Create golden swirls across the surface.
11. Let cake rest for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Serving suggestion: Warn your guests before they take a bite—just like its liquid namesake, this cake doesn't pull its punches.