If you’re looking for a dessert that somehow feels both nostalgic and delightfully indulgent, this Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe is an absolute gem to have in your repertoire. It’s a warm, self-saucing delight where a soft, fluffy cake sits perfectly atop a luscious, creamy pudding layer. The simplicity of the ingredients hides the magic of the texture and flavor that come together to comfort and satisfy every craving. Whether you’re serving it after a family dinner or craving an easy treat, this Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe promises smiles in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples that blend to create a dessert bursting with classic vanilla flavor. Each ingredient has a purpose, from lending structure to the cake to crafting that irresistible pudding layer beneath.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the vanilla notes.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise light and fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors by balancing sweetness.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for a soft cake texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Brings a lovely richness and keeps the cake tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: The heart of the flavor — pure vanilla warmth.
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix: Creates that luscious pudding layer without fuss.
- 1 1/2 cups hot water: Activates the pudding mix and adds moisture to the bottom layer.
How to Make Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to ensure your cake releases beautifully after baking. This early prep sets the stage for a perfectly cooked dessert with golden edges.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix combines the essential components that make your cake rise and taste just right. Mixing them thoroughly ensures every bite has a consistent flavor and texture.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Now, pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until a smooth batter forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and light. This batter will be the delightful top layer of your pudding cake.
Step 4: Pour the Batter into the Dish
Evenly spread the batter into your greased baking dish. Spreading it evenly helps the cake bake uniformly, giving you that perfect rise and soft crumb throughout.
Step 5: Add the Pudding Mix and Hot Water
Sprinkle the dry vanilla pudding mix evenly over the cake batter. Resist the urge to stir! Then, carefully pour the hot water over the pudding mix layer—without mixing. This magic combo turns into a creamy pudding layer beneath the cake as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake your creation for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the cake has formed a soft pudding layer below. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly so you can enjoy the pudding in its perfect, warm, and comforting state.
How to Serve Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this wonderful dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar can also brighten up the presentation and add a fresh flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm mug of tea. For a festive twist, serve it alongside a spoonful of fruit compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add more depth and a touch of indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in pretty ramekins or vintage teacups to turn this humble dessert into an elegant treat. Layer it with fresh fruit or edible flowers for special occasions, making your Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe as special to look at as it is to taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. The cake and pudding layers will remain moist and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for a quick dessert fix later.
Freezing
While this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To bring back that comforting warmth, reheat slices in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. If you prefer, warm it in a low oven (around 325°F) covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. The pudding layer will reawaken beautifully with a soft, cozy texture.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, you can swap whole milk for low-fat milk, but the cake might lose a bit of its richness and moisture. For the best texture, whole milk or half-and-half is ideal.
What if I don’t have instant vanilla pudding mix?
The instant pudding mix is key for the pudding layer’s texture and flavor. If you can’t find it, try looking online or at larger grocery stores. However, substituting something else might change the final outcome significantly.
Can I add spices to the Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dry ingredients can bring a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the vanilla beautifully.
Is this cake gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, try substituting with a gluten-free baking flour blend that works 1:1 for all-purpose flour, and ensure your pudding mix is gluten-free as well.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Look for a golden top and a slight pull away from the edges of the baking dish. The pudding layer underneath will stay soft and custardy. Avoid inserting a traditional toothpick since it won’t come out clean from the pudding layer.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dessert that feels homemade, cozy, and effortless all at once. This Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe delivers exactly that with every bite of moist cake and creamy pudding underneath. I absolutely encourage you to try this recipe — it’s a winner for both your tastebuds and your soul.
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Vanilla Pudding Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Vanilla Pudding Cake is a delightful self-saucing dessert featuring a soft cake layer topped with a luscious vanilla pudding. Easy to prepare and perfect for serving warm with ice cream or whipped cream, this classic American dessert offers a comforting and nostalgic treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined to create a uniform dry base for the batter.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until a smooth, consistent batter forms without lumps.
- Pour Batter into Dish: Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out gently for an even layer that will bake uniformly.
- Add Pudding Mix: Sprinkle the dry instant vanilla pudding mix evenly over the top of the batter. It is important not to stir it in to allow the pudding to form its layer during baking.
- Pour Hot Water: Carefully pour the hot water over the pudding mix layer, ensuring it covers the surface without mixing. This step creates the pudding sauce beneath the cake layer as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the cake has risen, indicating the pudding layer has formed underneath.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- For richer flavor, substitute half-and-half for the whole milk.
- Optional: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spiced twist.
