Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of a moist, tender cake layered with a luscious, gooey pecan pie pudding topping that sinks into the batter as it bakes. Each forkful delivers a delightful contrast of textures—from the soft cake crumb to the crunchy pecans and sweet, buttery syrup—making it a stand-out treat for any occasion. Once you try this gem, it’s destined to become a household favorite that you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a key role in crafting its irresistible flavor and texture. From the warm spices to the rich butter and fresh pecans, everything comes together effortlessly to create something truly special.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for your cake which provides structure without heaviness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the batter.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, making it light and fluffy.
- ½ tsp cinnamon: A little spice that warms the flavor, perfectly complementing the pecans.
- ½ cup milk: Moistens the batter and ensures an even crumb.
- 2 tbsp melted butter: Introduces richness and depth of flavor to the cake.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic touch.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Brings crunchy texture and that trademark nutty flavor.
- ½ cup brown sugar: For the topping, offering a deep caramel sweetness that balances the cake’s softness.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Works with brown sugar to give the pudding layer a perfect sweetness.
- 1 cup hot water: Helps dissolve the sugars creating a syrupy topping that melts into the cake.
- 2 tbsp melted butter: Adds silkiness and flavor to the topping while helping it set.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: A finishing touch that amplifies the richness in the topping.
- ½ cup pecan halves: To crown the pudding layer with delightful pieces for every bite.
How to Make Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish. This ensures the cake won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. The even heat from this size pan helps the pudding topping and cake cook perfectly together.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. These dry ingredients form the flavorful base. Next, stir in milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract for moisture and depth. Gently fold in chopped pecans, which add a nutty crunch throughout the cake. Pour this luscious batter into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly for a uniform bake.
Step 3: Make the Pecan Pie Topping
In a separate bowl, blend brown sugar, granulated sugar, hot water, melted butter, and vanilla extract. The hot water melts the sugars creating a syrupy texture that will soak into the cake as it bakes, turning it delightfully gooey and rich.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Carefully pour the topping mixture over the batter in the pan—don’t stir. This is what makes the magic happen during baking, as the syrup sinks through the batter creating that classic layered effect. Scatter pecan halves on top to give a crunchy, visually enticing finish. Pop it in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the top becomes golden and you see the pudding bubbling invitingly.
Step 5: Cool and Get Ready to Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool for a little while. This brief rest lets the layers set just right. For the ultimate indulgence, serve it warm paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the sweet, nutty flavors wonderfully.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. A few toasted pecan halves placed artfully on top add a professional touch and extra crunch. A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup also pairs beautifully, boosting sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors.
Side Dishes
This Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe shines as a dessert star but pairs perfectly with simple accompaniments like a crisp green salad if you want a themed dinner or a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat. Fresh seasonal fruit can also lighten the richness of the cake for a balanced palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, serve the pudding cake in individual ramekins or clear glass dishes showcasing the lovely layers. You can also add a scoop of ice cream between two small squares to create irresistible mini pecan pie pudding cake sandwiches. Little mint leaves on top add a pop of color and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe is easy to store by covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it into an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent the pecans from getting soggy.
Freezing
This dessert freezes surprisingly well. Cut into portions and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap followed by foil. Place them in a freezer-friendly container and enjoy within 2 months for best flavor. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To bring back that warm freshly baked feeling, reheat slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes. Adding a scoop of ice cream right after reheating will make you feel like you just pulled the dessert from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can substitute in a pinch, but pecans offer a unique flavor and texture that really make this pudding cake stand out.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suited for baking, you can enjoy this dessert without gluten. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Why do I not stir the topping into the batter?
The magic of this recipe lies in layering—pouring the syrupy topping over the batter and allowing it to sink in creates the signature pudding effect as it bakes. Stirring would mix those layers together and change the texture.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Definitely! Use your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and swap butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil to keep it moist and flavorful.
How do I know when the pudding cake is done?
You want to look for a golden brown top and bubbling around the edges. The center should feel set but still moist when lightly touched with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe is the kind of dessert that makes everyone feel instantly at home—sweet, comforting, and just a little bit special. It’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, perfect for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or whenever you just need a treat that feels like a warm embrace. Give it a try, share it with friends, and watch this delightful dessert become your new go-to favorite!
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Pecan Pie Pudding Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Pecan Pie Pudding Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that combines a tender cinnamon-spiced cake base with a rich, gooey pecan pie topping. Baked together, the layers create a delightful pudding-like texture topped with caramelized pecans, perfect for serving with vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Cake Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Pecan Pie Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup hot water
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. Then, stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Fold in the chopped pecans gently to distribute evenly. Pour this batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, hot water, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.
- Assemble Cake: Carefully pour the topping mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish. Do not stir; the topping will naturally sink and create a pudding layer as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding topping is bubbling actively, indicating it is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. For best flavor and texture, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Notes
- Do not stir after adding the topping; this is essential for the pudding effect.
- Using hot water in the topping helps dissolve the sugars and melt the butter for a smooth caramel-like layer.
- For added flavor, you can toast the pecans lightly before adding them.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to ensure easy serving and cleanup.
- This dessert is best enjoyed warm but can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
