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
Scale
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.
