Why You’ll Love this Pumpkin Pudding Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ll absolutely love this Pumpkin Pudding Cake recipe.
It’s not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make! The combination of spice cake and pumpkin pudding creates a moist, tender cake that’s bursting with flavor.
Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. I can’t help but smile every time I take a bite—it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Whether you serve it plain or with caramel icing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients of Pumpkin Pudding Cake
When it comes to making a cake that feels like a warm embrace, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For this Pumpkin Pudding Cake, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that work together in perfect harmony. You might already have some of these items in your pantry, which is a bonus. It’s like a little treasure hunt in your kitchen!
So, let’s gather everything we need and get ready to bake something that will fill your home with the delightful scent of fall.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious cake:
- 18 ounces spice cake mix
- 2 eggs (or as directed on the spice cake mix)
- 1/3 cup oil (or as directed on the spice cake mix)
- 1 (3 1/2 ounce) package Jell-O instant pumpkin spice pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- Caramel icing (optional, but highly recommended)
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients a bit more. The spice cake mix is where the magic begins, providing a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice pudding.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even make your own spice cake from scratch—just don’t ask me to help, because I’m notoriously bad at baking from scratch. The pudding mix adds an extra layer of moisture, making this cake incredibly tender.
And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a cake that practically melts in your mouth? As for the caramel icing, you can totally skip it if you want a lighter dessert, but I mean… why would you? A drizzle of that sweet goodness takes this cake to the next level.
How to Make Pumpkin Pudding Cake
Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to immerse ourselves in the fun part: making the Pumpkin Pudding Cake. First off, grab a large mixing bowl, because we’re going to mix 18 ounces of spice cake mix, along with 2 eggs (or what the box recommends), and 1/3 cup of oil. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with a little oil; it makes everything nice and moist—the kind of moist that makes you want to do a little happy dance. Just whisk those ingredients together until they form a lovely batter. It might feel a bit thick, and that’s okay. We’re just getting started.
Next, in a separate bowl, mix a 3 1/2-ounce package of Jell-O instant pumpkin spice pudding mix with 1 1/2 cups of milk. Whisk it well until it’s smooth and creamy. Now comes the fun part: pour that silky pudding mixture right into your cake batter. Stir it all together until you can’t see any streaks of pudding or cake mix—just a glorious, unified batter that’s begging to be baked.
Here’s a tip: while you’re mixing, you might want to channel your inner rock star. Dance a little. Sing a little. It makes the process more enjoyable and might just add a sprinkle of magic to your cake.
Once you’ve got that batter looking perfect, grab your greased and floured bundt pan and pour in the mixture. Before you pop it into the oven, sprinkle it with a delightful cinnamon sugar mixture made from 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 teaspoons of sugar—this is where the real flavor explosion happens. It adds a lovely crunch to the top as it bakes.
Now, follow the baking instructions on your spice cake box, and let the aroma of pumpkin spice fill your home. Trust me, it’ll be hard to resist sneaking a little taste while it’s still warm.
And once it’s out of the oven and cooled down just a bit, don’t forget that caramel icing. Drizzle it on while the cake is still warm for that extra ooey-gooey goodness. Enjoy every bite, because you deserve it!
Pumpkin Pudding Cake Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that delicious Pumpkin Pudding Cake, you might be wondering how to customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
You can easily swap the spice cake mix for a gluten-free option or try chocolate cake mix for a chocolate twist. If you’re looking for a healthier version, use unsweetened applesauce instead of oil, and low-fat milk for the pudding mix.
For extra flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips. Don’t forget to experiment with different frostings; cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully, too!
These simple substitutions can make your cake uniquely yours while keeping it scrumptious!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pudding Cake
What complements the rich flavors of Pumpkin Pudding Cake? I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess balances the cake’s spices perfectly.
You might also consider pairing it with a cup of spiced chai or hot apple cider for a cozy touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a delightful sweetness.
For a festive twist, sprinkle some crushed pecans or walnuts on top for added texture. Trust me, these simple additions will elevate your dessert experience and make it even more memorable!
Additional Tips & Notes
When serving Pumpkin Pudding Cake, keep a few tips in mind to enhance your baking experience.
First, let the cake cool slightly before drizzling caramel icing; it melts beautifully when warm.
If you want extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
For a touch of spice, feel free to adjust the cinnamon to your taste.
I also love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness.
Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it moist and delicious for days.
Enjoy!